There are over 40 neurotransmitters in the human nervous system, and dopamine (DA) is considered one of the top four significant neurotransmitters, next to acetylcholine, serotonin, and glutamate. What is dopamine, and what are its roles? DA is a well-known brain chemical (neurotransmitter); although it also acts as a compound that helps maintain homeostasis (state of balance), it is the body’s chemical messenger. It communicates chemical messages between nerve cells, your brain, and the rest of your body. Its vital role is that it functions as our “reward center” and emotional state. It, along with serotonin, also has been called our “happy” neurotransmitter. DA functions include memory, learning, reward, mood, motivation, and movement (Speranza et al., 2021) (Lewis et al., 2021).
What are the symptoms and conditions associated with low dopamine? Dopamine deficiency can affect your mental and physical health, leading to many medical conditions associated with DP deficiency, like Parkinson’s disease, depression, restless legs syndrome, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, social withdrawal, and schizophrenia, to name a few disorders. It may also make you more susceptible to taking risks or developing addictions (Cramb et al., 2023).
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a degenerative disorder caused by the degeneration of nerve cells that either die or become impaired, and the loss of function (neurodegenerative) is mainly caused by a lack of dopamine in the substantial nigra, which is part of the brain that controls movement. With the lack of dopamine in sub-Parkinson’s patients, studies have indicated symptoms such as tremors (hands, arms, and legs); rigidity and stiff limbs; slowness of movement; and diminished balance and coordination are developed in more than 80 percent of patients’ loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain (Emamzadeh & Surguchov, 2018).
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder believed to be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics. Dopamine plays a crucial role in regulating emotional responses to rewards and positive motivation. Studies have shown differences in dopamine levels in individuals with ADHD compared to those without. Medication and natural supplements can help increase dopamine levels to treat ADHD effectively (Volkow et al., 2009) (Fusar-Poli et al., 2012).
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is one of the most common mental disorders globally. Dopamine system dysfunction has been linked to specific symptoms of depression, such as low motivation. Restless Legs Syndrome is a dopamine-dependent disorder characterized by a strong urge to move, often due to reduced dopamine levels in the brain leading to muscle spasms and involuntary movements.
Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder with theories suggesting an overabundance of dopamine receptors in certain brain parts, while low dopamine in the prefrontal cortex causes symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. Common symptoms of dopamine deficiency include low motivation and appetite, mood swings, and addiction susceptibility.
To naturally increase dopamine levels, you can consider incorporating protein-rich foods, adding probiotics to your diet, taking vitamins B5, B6, and B9, and L-theanine supplements. Engaging in mindfulness meditation, getting adequate sleep, and exposure to sunlight can also help boost dopamine production. Stress management techniques can influence the release of dopamine, and a balanced nutrition plan can support healthy dopamine levels. Foods such as avocados, beets, chocolate, coffee, dairy products, dark chocolate, and eggs are known to help release dopamine. Additionally, supplements like Ginkgo Biloba have shown potential in increasing dopamine levels, improving cognitive function, memory, and motivation (Blecharz-Klin et al., 2009) (Yoshitake et al., 2010) (Ramassamy et al., 1992). Consider trying Naka Platinum GINKGO BILOBA 60mg – 75 Caps for its antioxidant properties and benefits for memory and overall health.
