Dopamine: Too High or Too Low?
However, engaging in vices like alcohol or recreational drugs also causes dopamine to be released into the brain.
This is why the chemical messenger has been closely linked toaddiction.
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Having a balance in the synthesis, availability, and receptors for dopamine is the key.
Despite decades of research, scientists are still baffled by the exact mechanism of dopamine in the brain.
There are four major pathways for dopamine in your brain.
Each one controls a different process in your body.
What Causes Low Dopamine Levels?
Many things could cause low dopamine levels.
However, there are some techniques you could also use to increase your dopamine levels naturally.
When you dont get enough sleep, dopamine receptors in your body can be adversely affected.
Research has linkedsleep deprivationto the suppression of some dopamine receptors in your body.
Just thinking about it might make you smile.
Tyrosine is an amino acid that is naturally produced by the body.
Dopamine is made from this amino acid and can be found in protein-rich foods.
Foods that contain natural probiotics such as yogurt and kefir may also increase dopamine production.
Exercise More
Exercising regularly has been proven to be very important for your brains health.
It can also help you boost your dopamine levels.
Whenever you exercise your brain releases some dopamine.
Frequent runners also report experiencing something called arunners high.
Increase Social Activity
Humans are social creatures and low dopamine levels are associated with social isolation.
Stay connected to friends and family who are a positive source of support in your life.
Meditate
Meditating has a positive effecton a host of mental health conditions.
Research also shows that meditation has the ability to increase your dopamine levels.
This is a sugar high.
It is typically very temporary and followed by a crash that leaves you feeling down.
You may need to step away from toxic relationships and eliminate drama.
you might also engage in activities that reduce stress like meditating, exercising, or getting a massage.
You may be surprised to find you have more control over your sense of well-being than you originally thought.
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