Dopamine: Dr. Feel Good

The human body is home to a plethora of neurotransmitters that help send messages across the body. Arguably the most important of these communicators is dopamine. Known as the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter, dopamine transports information between neurons in the nervous system, thus helping maintain physical movement, cerebral activity, and homeostasis. Along with playing a role in the ways in which humans feel pleasure, dopamine also contributes to our ability to think, focus, and move.

This natural chemical is created in the brain and is, subsequently, released through the four major pathways in the brain. Its formation involves the transformation of tyrosine, an amino acid, into dopa which is then converted into dopamine with the removal of a carboxyl group.

When dopamine is produced at a healthy and consistent rate, it can allow for humans to be extremely motivated and causes goal-oriented behavior. Conversely, an insufficient lack of dopamine can result in adverse genetic conditions. Additionally, too much of this neurotransmitter can have negative effects. Diseases such as ADHD, Schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s, and their respective ties to dopamine, have been studied, therefore allowing scientists and medical experts to use this chemical as a potential treatment. Inadequate dopamine levels have also correlated to depression, drug misuse, addiction, and obesity.

According to scientists who study and treat neurological and psychiatric disorders, dopamine levels can be raised both naturally and medicinally. Some common self-treatments include daily exercise, proper sleep, tyrosine-rich foods -- such as cheese, fish, seeds, and beans-- and limiting stress-inducing activity. Each of these individually directed remedies has proven to boost productivity, mood, and overall performance levels. Dopamine injections are prescribed and most commonly used to treat symptoms of low blood pressure and help relieve various conditions brought on by shock.

Picture Source: library.neura.edu.au