Dopamine is one of our quint essential feel good neurotransmitters and many people just dont have enough. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter that is thought to be involved in the feeling of self-satisfaction and is involved in motivation.
In people that are having difficulty with regulating their mood, I suggest running a specific test, called an organic acid profile (http://www.greatplainslaboratory.com/home/eng/full_oat.asp) . This test can provide incredible information to support peoples mood. I find that many people with low levels of dopamine seem to be depressed and suffer from lack of motivation however many of my clients have had very high levels of dopamine that can result in anxiety.
It is certainly worth considering a test to help support clinical decision making on serious conditions such as anxiety and depression.
The following article is great if you are interested in boosting up your dopamine levels for one reason or another! Enjoy.
Supercharge your brain with foods that stimulate dopamine production
Posted on Wednesday, May 29, 2013 by: JB Bardot
The brains neurotransmitter dopamine activates metabolism helping the body establish a healthy weight. Additionally, dopamine helps the brain generate sufficient energy to run the body. It stimulates the heart, regulates the flow of information through our brains, controls movement, and allows humans to experience feelings of passion and pleasure. Dopamine production is boosted by the consumption of certain foods, especially those containing the amino acid tyrosine. Eating these special foods adds to our ability to respond optimally to our lives both physically and emotionally. All foods eaten should ideally be organic to avoid the effects of pesticides, chemicals and genetically modified organisms, or GMOs.
Proteins
Proteins are high in amino acids, which are necessary for dopamine production. Include foods such as fish, eggs, chicken, turkey and red meat to supply your body with adequate amino acids. Fermented soy products such as tempeh and miso and other legumes are considered incomplete proteins; however, form complete proteins when eaten in combination with grains, becoming excellent sources for dopamine-related amino acids.
Vegetables
Certain vegetables in particular are excellent sources of amino acids that stimulate dopamine production. For example, beets supply the amino acid called betaine, that aids in the regulation neurotransmitters like dopamine. Artichokes and avocados have also been found to increase dopamine levels.
Fruits
Ripe bananas are a major source of tyrosine and as they continue to ripen and become sweeter, their tyrosine component becomes more potent. Tyrosine helps regulate and stimulate dopamine levels, increasing memory and alertness. Apples are recommended for being high in quercetin, a potent antioxidant, and shown to aid in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases by triggering the production of dopamine in the brain. Remember to eat strawberries, blueberries and prunes to round out the best fruits supplying nutrients that trigger dopamine release.
Nuts and Seeds
Raw almonds, sesame and pumpkin seeds make a great snack and help regulate dopamine levels. Almond butter or tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, are excellent sources for the amino acids needed for dopamine production.
Wheat Germ
Wheat germ supplies the essential amino acid phenylalanine, that’s converted to tyrosine, which then stimulates additional dopamine release. Do not use wheat germ if you are gluten intolerant or allergic to wheat.
Herbs
Several common herbs are known for helping to regulate dopamine levels. These include nettles fenugreek, ginseng, milk thistle, red clover, and peppermint. They are best consumed as herbal teas.
Supplements
Adding supplements to your diet to increase dopamine levels may be helpful if you’re unable to get those nutrients from foods. Tyrosine, plus several vitamins such as B, C and E as well as iron, folic acid and niacin all help to trigger dopamine release. Check with your health care practitioner before including additional iron in your diet.
Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/040537_brain_foods_dopamine_production.html#ixzz2Ugh1JRNe