Dopamine is an important chemical messenger in the brain that has many functions, such as memory and even regulating body movement. When large amounts of dopamine are released, it creates feelings of pleasure that motivate you to repeat certain behaviors. Dopamine levels are usually well regulated in the nervous system, but there are several things you can do to increase dopamine levels naturally.

1. Eat Lots of Protein

Dopamine is naturally produced from the amino acids tyrosine and phenylalanine, both of which can be obtained from protein-rich foods, such as chicken, beef, eggs, milk, soybeans and nuts.

Research shows that very high intakes of this amino acid can increase dopamine levels in the brain. Although this study does not show whether normal amino acid intake will also have an impact on dopamine levels.

2. Eat less saturated fat

Animal studies have found that a diet high in saturated fat can reduce dopamine signals in the brain, leading to a reward system response in the brain. In addition, it is necessary to reduce foods with high cholesterol levels, because they can reduce dopamine levels in the brain.

However, it is not yet clear whether this applies to humans as well. More research is still needed to prove this.

3. Frequent exercise

Exercise can improve mood and can increase dopamine levels when done regularly. An increase in mood can be seen after at least 10 minutes of aerobic exercise but tends to be highest after at least 20 minutes.

Regular aerobic exercise is also beneficial for people with Parkinson's disease, a condition in which low levels of dopamine impair the brain's ability to control body movements.

4. Get enough sleep

Lack of sleep can reduce dopamine sensitivity in the brain, leading to feelings of excessive sleepiness. A good night's rest can help regulate your body's natural dopamine rhythm.

Regular, high-quality sleep can help keep your dopamine levels in balance and help you feel more alert and functioning during the day.

5. Listening to music

Listening to music can be a fun way to stimulate the release of dopamine in the brain.

Because music can increase dopamine levels, listening to music may even help people with Parkinson's disease improve fine motor control.

More research is still needed to see if songs with lyrics have the same, or potentially greater, effect.

Source: Hellosehat.com