Dopamine Deficient?

 I am fascinated by the brain. It doesn't get the attention it deserves. If it had a personality, I am guessing it might be a little jealous of how much the heart is always in the headlines.

I was reading an article by Deanne Alban on the blog Be Brain Fit, How to Increase Dopamine Naturally, she surprisingly points out how many areas are affected by low dopamine levels.

When your brain is low on dopamine:

• Lack of motivation
• Difficult if not impossible to focus
• Challenging to remember things
• Sleep problems
• Fatigue
• Hopelessness
• Procrastination
• Mood swings
• Inability to feel pleasure
• Unable to complete tasks
• Self-destructive behaviors

Common Causes:

• Unhealthy/unbalanced diet
• Nutrient deficient
• Obesity
• Thyroid disorders
• Addictions
• Dopamine antagonist drugs

I think what's most encouraging is that there are many, many options for increasing the dopamine levels in your brain naturally alleviating many symptoms listed above as well as for things like depression, addiction, ADHD, bipolar disorder, Parkinson's disease.

My favorite antidote is eating your way to higher dopamine levels. There are many common foods that will increase dopamine either directly or indirectly like: bananas, apples, almonds, beets, chocolate, oatmeal, olive oil, green tea, avocados, peanuts, watermelon and many more.

Did you know, taking a cold shower 57° can substantially increase dopamine levels — up to 250%. That's crazy! I must admit I gave this one a try after exercising this morning, very refreshing, although it is in the middle of summer.

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Karen Wise, ADHD Life & Leadership Coach

I enjoy helping people understand how their brain works and collaborating with them to create strategies for capitalizing on their strengths, so they have the energy to live, love and laugh again.