This neurotransmitter is often called the ‘Feel-Good Chemical.’
A neurotransmitter is a chemical messenger that transmits signals in the body.
It also acts as a hormone.
Ted Horowitz Photography / Getty Images
It does, however, reinforce feelings of pleasure by connecting sensations of pleasure to certain behaviors.
Its a feel-good chemical, saysTanya J. Peterson, NCC, DAIS, a mental health educator.
That, in turn, leads to even more dopamine production.
Fight-or-Flight Responses
Dopamine is also present in fight-or-flight responses.
However, everyone experiences dopamine differently.
Too little or too much dopamine can cause many problems.
You might also have stomach issues and coordination problems.
Like the neurotransmitterserotonin, which helps regulate mood, dopamine is involved in many psychological illnesses.
Abnormally functioning dopamine receptors play a role in some health and mental health disorders.
Why some people struggle with addiction more than others could be due to preexisting differences in dopamine circuits.
Decreased dopamine function can occur following stress and in certain types of depressive disorders, says Dr. Giordano.
Dopamine Agonists
Dopamine agonistsare medications that mimic dopamine and activate dopamine receptors.
Such medications may be used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
They can also treat nausea and vomiting.
Because of this, it can increase dopamine levels in the brain.
Such medications may treat depression, binge eating disorder, and narcolepsy.
These drugs may also be used to help people overcome addictions.
The best way to balance your dopamine levels is to focus on healthy habits.
Eating lots of fruits and vegetables, especially bananas, can increase dopamine production.
Exercising also improves sleep habits, which also supports balanced dopamine levels.
Research has shown that physical activity can positively affect the secretion of neurotransmitters, including dopamine.
“Do any physical activity that you enjoy.
This will kick up dopamine production, Peterson explains, and youll get a mental health boost that lasts.
Because dopamine plays such an integral role in the body and brain, its important to address the imbalance.
Just know that many people experience imbalanced dopamine levels, but these can be easily adjusted.
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