Dopamine is a powerful neurotransmitter that plays an essential role in our day to day living as human beings. One of its main functions is to activate the body’s metabolism. It also stimulates the brain to produce the energy needed to run the body. Aside from these functions, dopamine regulates the flow of information in the brain. It controls muscle movement, stimulates the heart and allows human beings to feel the emotions of pleasure and passion. Furthermore, insufficient levels of dopamine are also associated with depression, especially in a man.
It is very common for men to be low in dopamine, as the body uses the same nutrition to create dopamine as it does for building muscles. Men are born with at least 30% more muscle mass than women, so they need more of the right nutrition. The body will give the nutrition first to muscles and second to dopamine. Therefore this nutrition information is especially important for males.
Dopamine deficiency shows up as lack of focus, attention, motivation and energy. It often drives the person to desire more stimulus with something new and different or exciting. It can even result in addictions to drugs, gaming, gambling, or porn among others.
If you are struggling with dopamine deficiency, then here’s some good news for you! There are many natural sources of dopamine that can restore your health. While there are supplements available in the market, natural sources may still be the better choice. To boost your dopamine levels, here are some foods that you should try:
Proteins
Proteins contain amino acids which are a key ingredient in the production of dopamine. There are many sources of proteins but the healthiest include fish, fermented soy products, legumes and grains. Compared to chicken and red meat, fish meat contains lesser fats and are digested easier by the body. Fermented soy products and legumes are excellent sources but they are considered as incomplete proteins. To form complete proteins, they should be eaten with grains.
Vegetables
Vegetables are unquestionably a healthy source of vitamins and minerals. However, in the case of dopamine, only particular kinds of vegetables are helpful in dopamine production. A good example of these are beets. They contain an amino acid called betaine which regulates dopamine. Avocados have also been found to boost dopamine levels.
Fruits
Tyrosine is an amino acid which regulates and stimulates dopamine levels. It also improve the brain’s memory and alertness. This particular kind of amino acid can be found in ripe bananas. The riper and sweeter a banana is, the more potent is its tyrosine content. The antioxidant quercetin is also necessary in the production of dopamine. It also prevents neurodegenerative diseases. Apparently, this helpful antioxidant can be found in apples. Other fruits that can increase your dopamine levels include strawberries and blueberries.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds make a healthy snack. Not only do they have a low calorie content but they also regulate dopamine levels. Almonds and sesame seeds are a good example. Aside from regulating dopamine levels, they also contain a variety of amino acids which are important in dopamine production.
As you incorporate these foods in your diet, it is highly recommended that you opt for organic products. Most of the produce that we currently have in the market are already loaded with pesticides, chemicals and genetically modified organisms which are all harmful to our health and often increase estrogen. By going organic, you are making the healthier choice. Eat natural sources of dopamine now. Not only will you improve your health but you will also improve your life.