by Henry Emmons, MD

[adapted from The Chemistry of Calm]

p.s., If you haven't read Part 1 of this series, head there first.

Dopamine 101 & How to Raise It When Deficient

The effects of dopamine are more complex than those of norepinephrine, at least in regards to anxiety. In some ways, they have a similar function.

Both dopamine and norepinephrine:

• Tend to be energizing and aid in mental focus and concentration.
• Can aggravate anxiety when levels are way too high.

However, dopamine has some beneficial effects against anxiety.

Dopamine can:

• Improve motivation and the experience of pleasure.
• Enhance microcirculation in parts of the brain.³

Unless dopamine becomes really excessive, your anxiety may improve if you gently boost your dopamine levels.

How do you know if dopamine is deficient?

Low dopamine symptoms include:

• Feel apathetic and fatigued.
• Difficulty losing weight.
• Feel unmotivated (as with exercise).
• Low sex drive.
• General difficulty getting pleasure from things.

If you have these signs along with anxiety, consider taking measures to boost dopamine function.

How to Increase Dopamine Levels with Supplements

B vitamins; omega 3 fatty acids; the amino acid l-theanine; and herbal therapies such as ginkgo biloba and St. John’s wort may be used to boost dopamine:

Activate | B-Complex

Peace of Mind | l-theanine

Strengthen | omega-3

*Note: Some of the supplements discussed in this article can cause side effects, but many people tolerate them much better than prescription medications. They are generally considered safe, however, they should not be started without your doctor’s knowledge and supervision. If you are taking medication already, be sure to talk with your doctor before adding any of these items. If you are considering going off medication, remember never to stop your medication suddenly—always consult with your doctor about how to safely taper off any psychiatric medication. See terms (link terms).

**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

RELATED ARTICLE

Learn how to boost your serotonin.

Nearly everyone feels better when their serotonin levels are optimal. Its wide array of functions range from sleep to appetite to impulse control to sexual desire. It's the brain chemical that helps soothe stress, and it offers protection to the brain against the damaging effects of cortisol. Read the article.

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