Dopamine: Eat to be Happy

If you have high levels of Dopamine you feel good!  Low levels can lead to addictions, complusions, depression & lethargy.  Dopamine is a neurotransmitter ("chemical messenger") that is involved in the role of pleasure/reward pathway, memory and motor control.   

The amino acid Tyrosine promotes the body to produce dopamine.  Foods high in tyrosine include almonds, avocados, bananas, dairy products (which I am not a huge fan of), lima beans, pumpkin seeds & sesame seeds. Eating a diet high in fruits & vegetables will protect dopamine neurons from free radical damage. Supplementation with Vitamin B6  is also shown to increase levels, along with adequate sleep & exercise.

​Refined foods high in sugar & saturated fat interfere with brain function and can cause low dopamine levels. 

​Choose wisely.