When we don't get enough dopamine in the diet, information flow from the brain does not work as well. Dopamine disorders in the frontal lobes can cause a decline in neurocognitve function, particularly those linked to the frontal lobes, such as memory, attention and problem solving. Shortage of dopamine is the cause of Parkinson’s Disease, when the ability to execute smooth, controlled movements is lost.
To make dopamine one needs to eat foods rich in tyrosine. Foods that may help your body to produce more dopamine are almonds, avocados, bananas, low-fat dairy, meat and poultry, Lima beans, sesame and pumpkin seeds, soy products (tofu, etc.), fish, dairy, and meats.
Increasing your intake of antioxidants may help reduce free radical damage to the brain cells that produce dopamine. Fruits and veggies that are rich in antioxidants are greens, orange vegetables and fruits, asparagus, broccoli, beets, peppers, oranges, strawberries, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, nuts, sunflower seeds, greens, broccoli, and carrots.
Regular exercise increases blood calcium which stimulates dopamine production and uptake in the brain. Thirty to sixty minutes a day of walking, swimming, or running can jump-start your dopamine levels. Setting goals and then reaching them increases your dopamine levels. Even small goals throughout the day, like not checking Facebook during the morning or resisting that plate of donuts at the office can help to increase dopamine in the body.
