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23 Great Ways to Painlessly Cleanse Your Whole Body

HEALTH23 Great Ways to Painlessly Cleanse Your Whole Body When people hear the word “cleanse” or “detox”, they think of starvation and similar painful experiences. However, there are many simple and safe things you can do to clean your body of toxins and waste. If used regularly, the methods below are highly effective and better than any short-term detox plans. Meditation Besides cleansing the body, cleansing the mind is also important. Meditation will help you get rid of negative emotions and relax. It doesn’t really matter if you meditate for 5 or 60 minutes – take whatever time you need and just let everything go. Water Out body consists of a huge amount of water, which makes it important for every cell and function. Water is especially important for our lymphatic system as it expels toxins from the body. Without a proper amount of water in our bodies, we can’t function normally. Experts recommend starting the day with a glass of warm lemon water, and you can add some baking soda for even better results. The beverage will regulate your pH levels and destroy bacteria and toxins in your body. Juicing with dandelion greens Juicing is one of the best natural ways of feeding your body with micronutrients and destroying toxins. Dandelions are a powerful natural diuretic that can flush out salt and water from the body, and they can clean the liver as well. The plant contains essential nutrients the body requires on a daily basis and is anti-inflammatory in nature. Hydrotherapy Dry brush your body first, then enter the shower and alternate between hot and cold showers for a couple of minutes. This hydrotherapy method will boost your blood and lymphatic flow and improve the function of your immune system. Dry brushing and rebounding The lymphatic system is a network of nodes, vessels and ducts that run through the body and move lymph throughout it. The lymph is vital for cleaning waste and toxins from the body, so it’s an important part of detoxifying processes. Dry brushing is a simple technique for cleaning and boosting the lymph flow. It consists of using specific circular motions on the skin which move toward the heart. Add some rebounding in the process like in the video below, and you will certainly feel much better. Stretching The sedentary lifestyle we all lead leaves us almost no time for any kind of physical activity. This is a big problem that is responsible for many diseases and conditions. However, stretching won’t take much of your time, and can significantly boost your blood and lymph circulation. Stretching exercises can relax your muscles and keep your body in tip-top shape, and they can also be done anywhere. Find a few stretching exercises online and start doing them to boost your circulation and expel toxins from your body. Qi-gong workout The ancient Chinese Qi-gong therapy involves specific postures and breathing techniques which can clean the body of toxins and boost the energy flow as well. These workouts will only take 10 minutes of your time and will improve your physical and mental performance unlike anything else. Turn off the news The TV news are a big money-making industry that feeds on your stress. Depressing and shocking news can upset your mind, which is why you should avoid watching news unless necessary. Instead of spending your time in front of the TV, go for a walk with your friends and you’ll feel much better. Bone broth Yes, something as simple as a bowl of bone broth can uplift your energy and mind. Bone broth contains several important minerals that can improve your overall health and lift you up when you’re sick. Sound therapy Sound therapy is a great body and mind detox method. As we age, we grow dull to sound frequencies, which affects our energy and increases our irritability to any kind of sound. Sound therapy is aimed to restore this sensitivity and can treat numerous health problems as well. Listening to uplifting music This method can help you relax and has the same effect on your mind as drinking fresh water has on your body. Find the music you love and simply enjoy it to clean your mind. Steam therapy One of the best ways of getting toxins out of your body is steam therapy. Steam therapy can clean your clogged sinuses and pores easily and effectively. It’s not that hard – just get a humidifier or breathe steam from a hot shower. Even using your stove works – just fill a pot with water, then let it boil, lean over it with a towel over your head and breathe in the steam. Pet therapy Pet therapy is another great way of cleansing your body and mind. Pets are energy sensitive and know when you’re upset. They love affection, and petting them has been known to reduce heart rate and relieve fatigue. Pets can bring a smile to your face and make you laugh – just 15 minutes of playing with them can improve your mood and cleanse your body and mind better than anything else. Herbs Some of the best cleansing herbs include peppermint, garlic, milk thistle and borotutu bark. They can detoxify your body and have been known to treat numerous diseases and conditions. Aromatherapy Some plants contain aromatic compounds that can improve your overall mental and physical wellbeing. Aromatherapy has been used as a rejuvenating method for a long time by different cultures and is easy to perform. All you need to do is rub some essential oil on your hands and cup them on your face while inhaling deeply to relax your senses. Wake up and skip breakfast During the day, our body undergoes 3 processes: elimination, appropriation and assimilation. The morning is reserved for elimination, so eating breakfast can impair your body’s ability to expel toxins. Instead of a heavy meal, take a glass of warm lemon water and a smoothie afterwards – this will replenish the nutrients in your body and boost the elimination process. Foam rolling Although unusual, this method is highly effective. Our sedentary lifestyle makes our muscles stiff and underused, but foam rolling can eliminate the toxins in our body and improve the circulation in various body parts, which will heal the body as a whole. Oil pulling This is an ancient technique that can significantly improve the health of your gums and teeth. Just swish a tablespoon of sesame or coconut oil in your mouth for 20 minutes to “pull” out toxins and clean your oral cavity. The technique will also whiten your teeth and improve the lymph flow in your system. After you’re done, spit the oil out. Infrared heating therapy The infrared waves in a sauna can increase your body temperature slowly and activate different bodily functions. As you sweat, toxins will be eliminated from your body, and the process will boost your circulation as well. Foot massage The feet absorb energy and particles, which is why they’re often one of the biggest toxin build-up points. By massaging them with essential oils or lotions, you can eliminate these toxins and improve your overall health. Vitamin D therapy To get more vitamin D in your body, all you need to do is enjoy the sun. Lack of vitamin D in the body is a serious problem that can cause numerous diseases and conditions which is why vitamin D supplementation is so important. During winter, you can use tanning beds to get the vitamin, but avoid using them too often. Oxygen therapy Oxygen is a key ingredient for cleansing your body – it gives power to the cell network and provides the body with energy. The oxygen therapy involves breathing an increased amount of oxygen through a mask under the supervision of a medical professional. However, you can do the same by enjoying nature – just go for a 20-30-minute walk to clear your body and mind, relieve stress and detoxify your system. Epsom salt bath Epsom salt is rich in magnesium, a mineral that our cells consist of. Magnesium is involved in over 300 processes in the body, and is very hard to obtain in the standard western diet. Millions of people are magnesium deficient, which is why you should try Epsom salt baths in order to boost your magnesium levels. As you can see, there are many ways in which you can detox your body easily. All of these methods will cleanse your body and mind and improve your overall health, so you might want to give them a try. Article and image sources: realfarmacy.com | Fitlife.tv

Try replacing it with stevia or other natural alternatives and you will definitely notice the positive results.

HEALTH6 Alarming Signs That Indicate That You Are Eating Too Much Sugar Sugar is a common ingredient in everyone’s kitchen and definitely one of the most commonly consumed ingredients as well. But, just because it’s so popular it doesn’t mean it’s healthy. In fact, sugar has so many negative effects on our health that it should be banned worldwide! Sugar is an addictive substance that is almost impossible to avoid as it’s added to every kind of food nowadays. Consuming it in excess is responsible for a variety of health problems such as obesity, which is why you should exclude it from your diet. There are many natural alternatives to sugar such as stevia which can satisfy your sweet cravings without raising your blood glucose levels and increasing the risk of diabetes and other ailments. Here are 6 signs which show that you’re eating too much sugar: Anxiety If you’re often anxious and have sugar cravings as well, you’re not alone. According to a new study, sugar cravings are similar to drug addiction. Whenever you eat some sugar, the brain rewards you with pleasure, and the more you eat the more you crave it. It’s a vicious cycle. Wrinkles Eating sugar frequently disrupts the levels of collagen and elastin in the skin which give it flexibility and elasticity. Once in the body, sugar generates glycation, a process during which glucose and fructose bind to proteins and lipids, which makes the skin age prematurely and causes the appearance of wrinkles. Visceral fat Eating too much sugar will make you gain fat, especially in the belly area. This type of fat is known as visceral fat and studies have shown that it’s related to a variety of cardiovascular diseases and conditions. Harms the teeth Eating too much sugar helps bacteria in the teeth grow and multiply, effectively increasing the risk of tooth cavities and oral problems. Inflammation A study which involved children aged 2-9 showed that too much sugar can raise inflammation in the body and cause a variety of problems. Digestive problems Consuming sugar in excess may lead to intestinal leakage which will lead to inflammation and the development of cancer in different organs. Sugar can destroy the intestinal microflora and cause insulin resistance, which will definitely affect your health. In order to prevent these problems, we suggest cutting out sugar from your diet completely or at least reducing the amount you consume. Try replacing it with stevia or other natural alternatives and you will definitely notice the positive results. Source: naturalcarebox.com

important compounds are synthesized so we can all get up full of energy and prepared for the challenges of the day ahead

HOMEHEALTHNeuroscientists Have Issued A Warning! Women, Pay Close Attention To How Much You Sleep! HEALTHNeuroscientists Have Issued A Warning! Women, Pay Close Attention To How Much You Sleep! Sleeping is so much more important for our health than most people think of. It’s actually a method with which the body repairs and heals itself, while keeping the function of the organs under control. Many processes occur when we sleep – the organs and cells are replenished and certain important compounds are synthesized so we can all get up full of energy and prepared for the challenges of the day ahead. Of course, due to their different biological nature, sleeping is a different process for men and women. We all think that we need about 8 hours of sleep overnight, but science has recently proven that women need even more. According to recent neurological studies, 8 hours of sleep overnight is not enough for women. The brain activity of females is higher than that of men, so they require more rest. Furthermore, the studies have shown that the so-called restorative or beautifying sleep is not a myth. Getting proper shut-eye overnight will make your skin look better, which is definitely more important for women than men. If you’re a woman and reading this article, make sure to get more than 8 hours of sleep overnight. It is vital for your health and your looks as well. Article and image source: https://naturalcarebox.com

Uses, Benefits, and Facts of Rambutants

HOMEHEALTHThe Uses, Benefits, And Facts Of Rambutants HEALTHThe Uses, Benefits, and Facts of Rambutants One of the first things that people notice about rambutan is the hairiness of this fruit. Its physical appearance might make you stay away from it. However, once you decide to give it a try, rambutan will probably become one of your favorite fruits. It tastes like lychee and grapes and it is very refreshing. Of course, it is also respected for its nutritional value and it’s great for the health. Health Benefits of Rambutants 100 grams (3.5 oz) of this fruit’s pulp contains about 40 mg of vitamin C. In other words, this amount will provide about 66% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C. As we all know, vitamin C keeps us safe from colds and flu. This vitamin is good for other things too. For instance, it eliminates toxins from all body parts and helps people deal with tension and stress. In addition, vitamin C is good for the skin. It is interesting that rambutants contain more copper compared to the majority of fruits. This mineral is crucial for many bodily processes. As a matter of fact, if there is no copper present in the body, people can become anemic or witness blood vessel damages and issues with joints and bones. In some cases, fatigue and high cholesterol levels are associated with copper deficiency. This mineral supports hair growth and taking copper on a regular basis can prevent premature hair loss. How To Choose and Consume Rambutants Rambutants are native to tropical regions like Puetro Rico, Hawaii and Southeast Asia. However, you can easily find them in stores in Europe and North America. Rambutants that are fresh usually have better culinary value and they contain more nutrients compared to those who have been picked. If you want to get the most of them, eat them raw. Just peel the fruit’s skin and eat the flesh. Remember not to bite the seed found in the flesh. Feel free to add this fruit in salads and drinks (once you peel it). Rambutants are an excellent lychee alternative. They taste even better when they are consumed together with vanilla and cinnamon. Article and image source: http://healthandlovepage.com

Brain, Behavior and Neuroscience

About PAGE INFO Started in 2012 CONTACT INFO @Brainandbehavior Send Message MORE INFO About Information on brain, behavior, neuroscience, development, and other relevant science for students, friends, and the science-minded. categories Community STORY A one-stop shop of all links I find interesting and trending about the brain, behavior, child development, neuro-chemistry/biology/anatomy. Used by students, friends, family and all those interested in how the brain and behavior are interconnected.

You might not have a money tree, but you can have a happiness tree. Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin, and Endorphins are the quartet responsible for your happiness. Many situations can trigger these neurotransmitters, but instead of being in the passenger seat, there are ways you can intentionally cause ...

Hacking Into Your Happy Chemicals: Dopamine, Serotonin, Endorphins, & Oxytocin Share 5K Tweet 66 Share 231 Pin 92K SHARES 97K You might not have a money tree, but you can have a happiness tree. Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin, and Endorphins are the quartet responsible for your happiness. Many situations can trigger these neurotransmitters, but instead of being in the passenger seat, there are ways you can intentionally cause them to flow. Being in a positive state has significant impact on your motivation, productivity, and wellbeing. Here are some simple ways to hack into your positive neurochemicals: [Download the free infographic below!] Dopamine Dopamine motivates you to take action toward your goals and gives you a surge of reinforcing pleasure when achieving them. Procrastination, self-doubt, and lack of enthusiasm are linked with low levels of dopamine. Studies on rats showed those with low levels of dopamine always opted for an easier option, and less reward/food; those with higher levels of dopamine exerted the effort needed to receive double the amount of food. Break big goals down into little pieces. Rather than only allowing your brain to celebrate when you’ve hit the big finish line, you can create a series of little finish-lines for frequent dopamine release. And it’s crucial to actually celebrate—buy a bottle of wine, or head to your favorite restaurant whenever you meet a small goal. And avoid the dopamine hangover — when you slump after a massive high. Create new goals before achieving your current one. That ensures a consistent pattern for experiencing dopamine. As an employer and leader, recognize the accomplishments of your team. Sending your team an encouraging email or giving a small bonus is a “dopamine-hit” that will increase future motivation and productivity. Serotonin Serotonin flows when you feel significant or important. Loneliness and depression are present when serotonin is absent. It’s why people fall into gangs and criminal activity—the culture and ‘community’ facilitate serotonin release. Unhealthy attention-seeking behaviors are also a cry for what serotonin provides. Princeton neuroscientist Barry Jacobs explains that most antidepressants focus on the production of serotonin. Reflecting on your past achievements allows your brain to re-live the experience. Your brain has trouble telling the difference between what is real and what is imagined, so it produces serotonin in both cases. Gratitude practices are popular for this reason, they are reminders and mental pictures of all the good things you’ve experienced. If you need a serotonin boost during a stressful day, take a few moments to reflect on your past achievements and victories. Another way to boost your serotonin levels is to have lunch or coffee outside and expose yourself to the sun for twenty minutes; your skin absorbs UV rays which promotes Vitamin-D and serotonin production. Although too much ultraviolet light isn’t good, some daily exposure is healthy for boosting your serotonin levels. Oxytocin The release of oxytocin creates intimacy, trust, and strengthens relationships. It’s released by men and women during orgasm, and by mothers during childbirth and breastfeeding. Animals will reject their offspring when the release of oxytocin is blocked. Oxytocin increases fidelity; men in monogamous relationships who were given a boost of oxytocin interacted with single women at a greater physical distance than men who weren’t given any oxytocin. Oxytocin is the glue that binds together healthy relationships. Often referred to as “the cuddle hormone,” a simple way to keep oxytocin flowing is to give someone a hug. Dr. Paul Zak explains that inter-personal touch not only raises oxytocin, but reduces cardiovascular stress and improves the immune system. Rather than just a hand-shake, go in for the hug. Dr. Zak recommends eight hugs each day. Giving someone a gift, will also cause their oxytocin levels rise. You can strengthen work and personal relationships through a simple birthday or anniversary gift. Endorphins Endorphins are released in response to pain and stress, and helps to alleviate anxiety. The surging “second wind” and euphoric “runners high” when running are a result of endorphins. Similar to morphine, it acts as an analgesic and sedative, diminishing your perception of pain. Along with exercise, laughter is one of the easiest ways to induce endorphin release. Even the anticipation and expectation of laugher e.g. attending a comedy show, increases levels of endorphins. Taking your sense of humor to work, forwarding that funny email, and finding several things to laugh at during the day is a great way to keep your endorphins flowing. Aromatherapies: the smell of vanilla and lavender has been linked with the production of endorphins. Studies have shown that dark chocolate and spicy foods will cause your brain to release endorphins. Keep some scented oils and dark chocolate at your desk for a quick endorphin boost. Infographic created by VisMe. Hacking Into Your Happy Chemicals-Dopamine- Serotonin Endorphins, Oxytocin … For another great article on your happy chemicals, check out Meet Your Happy Chemicals by Loretta G Breuning Ph.D. Share 5K Tweet 66 Share 231 Pin 92K SHARES 97K RECENT POSTS 5 Reasons Why Hiking is Good For You DEC 09, 2017 0 12 7 Productivity Strategies Every Student Needs to Know AUG 09, 2017 2 414 8 Effective Strategies to Boost Your Productivity JUL 10, 2017 7 711 RELATED POSTS 3 Great Ways to Build Mental Resilience MAY 17, 2017 0 434 5 Ways to Help You Manage and Overcome Anxiety 96 RESPONSES TO “HACKING INTO YOUR HAPPY CHEMICALS: DOPAMINE, SEROTONIN, ENDORPHINS, & OXYTOCIN” June 13, 2015 nick Reply Nice and straight forward explanation, have linked to this form our website to help some of our readers. July 6, 2015 [email protected] Reply Thanks Nick! October 5, 2016 Dave otz Reply I was going to ask you if you had a PhD in this matter but by the non sense way you explained everything I see that you maybe read about it, please don’t confuse people and make them think that happy thoughts are going to kill their depression or to take antidepressants I did for 10 years and I would start smoking crack before touching another antidepressants in my life.My brain is unable to produce the normal amount I have tried everything in 20 years and the first 5 were the hardest thanks to happy dreamers wanna be gurus like you please don’t confuse people and study more about all kinds of depressions and study carcinoid syndrome that’s when the brain of a person has excessive amounts of serotonin and need a shot that is around $1,500 and is needed every month,insurance is covering people in some states finally, so a person with that syndrome needs to think negative thoughts to lower serotonin? Mr utopian life don’t make the suffering of people with depression be just a way of wrong thinking. Negative thoughts don’t make you depressed , depression makes you negative. March 31, 2017 Bettye Maxton Reply Sorry for your depression. The article is very well written. Perhaps you need to ask yourself, “Do you want to be healed?” Or, “Do you want to portray yourself as a victim?” Just for a moment consider that you might need to take some responsibility for your illness. Just try to apply his principals: Take raw cacao, exercise, even mild will help, get a lot of Vitamin D3, noonday sun til you get slightly pink if you live in the tropics, otherwise, try Vitamin D3 supplements, love people, help people, serve people, eat healthy organic juices, sprouts, beef liver. God says herbs are your medicine. I believe it. Thank this person that posted these articles to help you and others. I will pray for you. May 6, 2017 Jenney Sparks Reply Thanks for your comment, Bettye. You put into words what I was thinking. May 11, 2017 [email protected] Reply Thanks, Bettye. Dave, I sincerely wish you the best, and that your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health gets better. May 20, 2017 Martin Wright Reply Thank you * June 29, 2017 SF Reply Some people truly benefit from antidepressants. I do. And there are so many out there, you have to find the one that works for you. Without mine…. I’m unbearable to be around. Angry and hateful. Lexapro makes me feel completely normal – back to myself. September 20, 2017 Neeraj Reply https://youtu.be/EKkUtrL6B18 The major difference between dopamine and serotonin explained. Dopamine is harmful inexcess quantities and serotonin is not December 10, 2017 john mav Reply hi dave. i’m a street guy studying human behavior to really learn more about me. were you able to work through some of these thoughts and if yes, how. I’m a former drinker and don’t accept quilting myself with “hi, my name is John and i’M an alcoholic” I continue to read about working through all this mess rather than consuming any chemicals. hope to hear from you. December 10, 2017 john mav Reply Hi betty. i like some of the alternatives to prescribed chemicals. I am also learning that many of my emotions are a result of my chemical imbalances. much of my early criticisms were merely due to my misunderstanding of myself. My criticisms only drove me more into anger. but if i really knew what i was doing i wouldn’t do it. I viewed it like not h i having nerve endings and not understanding why I continued to put my fingers in the fire. I hope my comments are not too wacked out or confusing. June 16, 2015 Maxi Channing Reply You are awesome! One of the spiritually blessed and beautiful. Check out http://www.matthewbooks.com Not my site; just a place I found other inspiration and learning before today. Felt like I needed to share the light. July 6, 2015 [email protected] Reply Thanks Maxi! July 10, 2015 Happy Tree | Crunchy Kodamas Reply […] http://theutopianlife.com/2014/10/14/hacking-into-your-happy-chemicals-dopamine-serotonin-endorphins… […] September 20, 2017 Neeraj Reply https://youtu.be/EKkUtrL6B18 Check link July 24, 2015 Luna Darcy Reply Hi Tor, Love the science behind happiness here. Thanks for sharing a valuable and in-depth look on the neurotransmitters responsible for our happiness. Luna July 26, 2015 Camilla Hallstrom Reply Thai, so refreshing actually reading about the science behind it and how to “hack” happiness (instead of vague tips). Great post! July 28, 2015 Ayietim Reply Hi, thanks for this. Quite revealing and very useful. August 22, 2015 Dianne Reply Amazing article. All the need to knows about boosting confidence and good relationships. Thank you so much.. October 27, 2015 FAQs Reply […] about the Power of Play, and Why You Should Go Dancing at Least Once a Week (cognitive acuity, endorphin release, etc.). Making moves […] November 14, 2015 Is serotonin the happy brain chemical, and do depressed people just have too little of it? | the neurosphere Reply […] http://theutopianlife.com/2014/10/14/hacking-into-your-happy-chemicals-dopamine-serotonin-endorphins… […] November 24, 2015 Químicas de la felicidad - Fer Orpinell Reply […] *adaptación de textos de Thai Nguyen […] December 24, 2015 S1M Miracle - Meltzer Mission Reply […] Giving is the easiest and most effective way to create happiness. When we give Serotonin is released in our brains which is actually biochemically proven to make us happy! Not only does it make us happy by giving, Seratonin is released in those who receive our generosity and the recipient is happy as well. But most interestingly anyone that witnesses this act of giving Serotonin is released and they are happy as well. So there is no better way to scientifically create happiness than to give! […] March 18, 2016 Ravi Reply Simply Amazing…Thanks a TON March 23, 2016 The Happiness Gene: What Makes Scandinavians the Happiest People? Reply […] controversial study discovered a mutation of a gene that governs the release of serotonin, one of the four neurochemical transmitters responsible for the feeling of happiness. This […] March 30, 2016 Hacking Into Your Happy Chemicals: Dopamine, Serotonin, Endorphins, & Oxytocin | Konfirmed Media Reply […] Source: Utopian Life […] February 15, 2017 Lilly Reply Thanks! thats helpful for my research paper! March 31, 2016 Why is Sex Fun? | వాకిలి Reply […] Desmond Morris, “The Naked Ape” [3] http://www.youramazingbrain.org/lovesex/sciencelove.htm [4] Hacking Into Your Happy Chemicals [5] Biological basis of […] April 22, 2016 Delson Reply Great post! I love the breakdown and actions you offer that release these amazing chemicals in our brain. This further strengthens people’s reason for laughing, joking, hugging, and gratitude – although I wouldn’t see why people really need a reason for these things – they all feel oh-so-good!!! I’m my own internal happiness generator because I do all these things and more on a daily basis. I can laugh anytime, anywhere, and at anything, without any kind of stimulus and my gratitude for the people, things and circumstances in my life are my foundational practice for the Evolve Meditation I do! It’s an ongoing 24/7 process and it can certainly and literally rewire someone’s brain to become a new and better version of themselves! April 30, 2016 Escaping The Dysfunctional Charismatic Cycle Of Desperation & Euphoria - Brazen Church Reply […] these really great/inconvenient-in-this-situation things called Endorphins, and when we are sad, stressed, or in pain, our brain tries to shift course by releasing a fresh […] May 2, 2016 Mitesh Khatri Reply Hi, this is a brilliant article i will definitely and immediately share this on my FB and Blog so more people can benefit from your article. I can say your article was a good shot of Dopamine & Oxytocin 🙂 Thanks. If it interests you, do check my article on How to Stop Worrying http://www.miteshkhatri.com/stop-worrying-3-simple-steps/ July 23, 2016 Hacking Into Your Happy Chemicals: Dopamine, Serotonin, Endorphins, & Oxytocin - SURF N TURF GETAWAYS Reply […] See full story on Hacking Into Your Happy Chemicals: Dopamine, Serotonin, Endorphins, & Oxytocin […] August 8, 2016 G Reply Does extreme Lactation lead to deficiency of dopamine? August 3, 2016 Enter The Summer Void Reply […] and learning. But for some reason, once summer arrives it all becomes very difficult. I found this quite interesting in trying to figure out what my brain is missing now that I am on holiday. It […] August 19, 2016 7 Proven Strategies to Make Your New Habits Stick Reply […] wins and your personal growth is crucial for keeping your motivation levels high. Your brain will release dopamine when you consciously celebrate a victory. This will give you fuel to keep moving […] August 19, 2016 7 Science-Based Habits That Will Make You Succeed | Inc. Arabia Reply […] on. When you enjoy actually doing the work and celebrating the little achievements along the way, your body experiences higher dopamine levels. This leads to increased motivation and energy to get even more done. If you find yourself only […] August 20, 2016 7 Proven Strategies to Make Your New Habits Stick - Wealth Builders Circle Reply […] wins and your personal growth is crucial for keeping your motivation levels high. Your brain will release dopamine when you consciously celebrate a victory. This will give you fuel to keep moving […] August 24, 2016 7 Strategies to Make Your New Habits Stick | VigarooNews Reply […] your little wins is crucial for keeping your motivation levels high. Your brain will release dopamine when you consciously celebrate a victory. Dopamine is fuel for motivation and making new […] August 24, 2016 FundaVision | Funding Accelerator Process | Create, Build and Fund your Business | 7 Strategies to Make Your New Habits Stick Reply […] your little wins is crucial for keeping your motivation levels high. Your brain will release dopamine when you consciously celebrate a victory. Dopamine is fuel for motivation and making new […] September 21, 2016 cc Reply I couldn’t help but notice the similiarities to this… http://www.thebestbrainpossible.com/how-happy-happens-in-your-brain/ September 21, 2016 [email protected] Reply Thanks for letting me know. I’ve sent them an email — I wrote this article in 2014; it’s been copied and pasted on lots of other sites. October 6, 2016 Topic Ideas – sydneykleinblog Reply […] http://theutopianlife.com/2014/10/14/hacking-into-your-happy-chemicals-dopamine-serotonin-endorphins… […] October 30, 2016 30 October 2016 | Stars and Gas in the LMC – European Astronomy Picture of the Day Reply […] and starclouds and observing the various Magellanic jewels is likely to result in the release of serotonin and endorphins being triggered in the brain! For people in the southern hemisphere who don’t […] November 28, 2016 The Ultimate List of Positive Mental Attitude Tips for Happiness - Ideal Me Reply […] Via The Utopian Life […] December 26, 2016 Hacking Into Your Happy Chemicals: Dopamine, Serotonin, Endorphins, & Oxytocin | Go Spiritual Reply […] http://theutopianlife.com/2014/10/14/hacking-into-your-happy-chemicals-dopamine-serotonin-endorphins… http://wisdom-magazine.com/Article.aspx/2885 […] January 17, 2017 Increasing Happiness Through Positive Wellness Coaching Reply […] Nguyen, T. (2014). Hacking into your happy chemicals: Dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, & oxytocin [blog file] Retrieved from http://theutopianlife.com/2014/10/14/hacking-into-your-happy-chemicals-dopamine-serotonin-endorphins… […] January 24, 2017 Как активировать биохимию счастья? Гормоны – наше все Reply […] Спасибо: http://theutopianlife.com/2014/10/14/hacking-into-your-happy-chemicals-dopamine-serotonin-endorphins…. […] February 1, 2017 Dance the Blues Away | Experience Ballroom Reply […] low levels of dopamine. Completing dance goals and the cheers and recognition it brings produces dopamine helping us maintain the motivation to complete other tasks and inspires us to keep improving and […] February 27, 2017 Hacking Into Your Happy Chemicals: Dopamine, Serotonin, Endorphins, & Oxytocin | The Utopian Life – Living Human Reply […] http://theutopianlife.com/2014/10/14/hacking-into-your-happy-chemicals-dopamine-serotonin-endorphins… […] March 12, 2017 your libido – mspeachierocks Reply […] http://theutopianlife.com/2014/10/14/hacking-into-your-happy-chemicals-dopamine-serotonin-endorphins… […] March 20, 2017 Dopamine & Pleasure Centers – خواطر فكرية فلسفية Reply […] http://theutopianlife.com/2014/10/14/hacking-into-your-happy-chemicals-dopamine-serotonin-endorphins… […] May 1, 2017 7 Proven Strategies to Make Your New Habits Stick - FinerMinds Reply […] your little wins is crucial for keeping your motivation levels high. Your brain will release dopamine when you consciously celebrate a victory. Dopamine is fuel for motivation and making new habits […] May 17, 2017 3 Great Ways to Build Mental Resilience | The Utopian Life Reply […] favourite song, dance around and sing like no one is listening. You will be triggering all sorts of happy chemicals and remembering the words will get you out of your negative train of thought for a few […] May 18, 2017 Gio Reply Aside from the main chemicals of Dopamine, Oxycontin, serotonin, and endorphin, are there any more chemicals that stimulate the body to such positivity? May 18, 2017 daisie Reply I totally agree with this. Happiness is an important thing in every day life. If you are upset and down chances are your day will continue being rough. If you cheer up and are happy your day will be way better. May 22, 2017 Melody Reply I think this is a neat way to look at things. Instead of writing how you think things work your blog focuses on how things work. Its actual science and not something that’s pulled out of life experiences. May 29, 2017 andhrudu Reply Its fun although i am sure this can be useful in biological words but it really doesnt change or bring any happiness May 29, 2017 Joel Reply I think we all have a deep-rooted fascination with the way our bodies work, and more specifically, the chemicals inside them. I grew up learning about Endorphins and their power to mask pain but had never heard of the other “Big 3”. The day I learned about them, was the day that my life changed. Just knowing why people (myself included) act the way they act in most circumstances was a game-changer in my life. Frustration was replaced by understanding and the world never looked the same. Thank you for taking some time to further increase my knowledge of the chemicals. Joel Oh, and the infographic is pretty solid as well. 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June 4, 2017 7 Proven Strategies to Make Your New Habits Stick | My Blog Reply […] your little wins is crucial for keeping your motivation levels high. Your brain will release dopamine when you consciously celebrate a victory. 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June 6, 2017 Depression and Chronic Fatigue * Overcome Fatigue Reply […] http://theutopianlife.com/2014/10/14/hacking-into-your-happy-chemicals-dopamine-serotonin-endorphins… […] June 6, 2017 How to Break Bad Habits, for Good | The Utopian Life Reply […] reward is the release of brain chemicals following the behavior. This is what reinforced the “bad” behavior. Your brain is […] June 13, 2017 Science Knows the 2-Step Process for Breaking the Bad Habits Holding You Back… | The Startup Times Reply […] reward: The reward is the release of brain chemicals following your specific routine. This is what reinforces your “bad” behavior. Your […] June 13, 2017 Science Knows the 2-Step Process for Breaking the Bad Habits Holding You Back - Synergy Capital Reply […] reward: The reward is the release of brain chemicals following your specific routine. This is what reinforces your “bad” behavior. Your […] June 13, 2017 Science Knows the 2-Step Process for Breaking the Bad Habits Holding You Back | tshwifi Reply […] reward: The reward is the release of brain chemicals following your specific routine. This is what reinforces your “bad” behavior. Your […] June 24, 2017 How to Break Bad Habits, for Good – user's Blog! Reply […] reward is the release of brain chemicals following your specific routine. This is what reinforces your “bad” behavior. Your […] June 27, 2017 3 Great Ways to Build Mental Resilience | Marketing Affiliate Website Reply […] favourite song, dance around and sing like no one is listening. You will be triggering all sorts of happy chemicals and remembering the words will get you out of your negative train of thought for a few […] June 27, 2017 How to Break Bad Habits, for Good | Marketing Affiliate Website Reply […] reward is the release of brain chemicals following your specific routine. This is what reinforces your “bad” behavior. Your brain is […] July 19, 2017 Anterpreet Singh Reply Great post I love all the facts about this post. I am also planning to make a site on motivation by the name of http://www.belikebillionair.com Please guide me how to be successful in this field. Thank You. July 30, 2017 The Parenting Guide To Teaching Empathy - Parental Journey Reply […] Empathy is not a naturally occurring instinct in everyone. It is one that is acquired during our formative years, cultivated through patient life lessons and understanding. Parents can help their child to develop this skill, which will ultimately make them happier in return. […] July 31, 2017 7 Ways to Learn From Your Mistakes as an Entrepreneur Reply […] Serotonin can reduce anxiety and depression. It contributes to your overall feeling of happiness. […] July 31, 2017 7 Ways to Learn From Your Mistakes as an Entrepreneur | Brett Scofield Reply […] Serotonin can reduce anxiety and depression. It contributes to your overall feeling of happiness. […] July 31, 2017 7 Ways to Learn From Your Mistakes as an Entrepreneur | ZMARKETING Reply […] Serotonin can reduce anxiety and depression. It contributes to your overall feeling of happiness. […] August 7, 2017 How to Break Bad Habits, for Good – Charlie Reply […] reward is the release of brain chemicals following your specific routine. This is what reinforces your “bad” behavior. Your brain is […] August 9, 2017 7 Productivity Strategies Every Student Needs to Know | The Utopian Life Reply […] telling the difference between what is real and what is imagined and will release positive brain chemicals even while you’re imagining […] August 13, 2017 7 Illustrations That Explain How an Introverted Mind is Unique – Awareness Act Reply […] Our brain is controlled by a combination of neurochemicals, transmitters, and impulses. We have neurochemicals known as dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, etc. They are famously known because they are what is released to make you feel good. Studies found that […] August 24, 2017 86Aiden Reply I see you don’t monetize your website, don’t waste your traffic, you can earn additional bucks every month because you’ve got hi quality content. If you want to know how to make extra money, search for: best adsense alternative Wrastain’s tools September 22, 2017 7 Dicas para Aprender com os Erros Comuns de um Empreendedor Reply […] A serotonina pode reduzir a ansiedade e a depressão. Contribui para o seu sentimento geral de felicidade. […] October 1, 2017 FirstEddy Reply I see you don’t monetize your blog, don’t waste your traffic, you can earn extra bucks every month because you’ve got high quality content. If you want to know how to make extra money, search for: Mrdalekjd methods for $$$ October 13, 2017 a .j. marr Reply Here is a new way of ‘hacking’ into the brain to increase positive affect. It is derived from the work of the distinguished affective and behavioral neuroscientist Dr. Kent Berridge of the University of Michigan, who has vetted and endorsed my argument. The procedure that follows in the linked open access little book below (pp. 43-45), is novel, short, succinct, simple and easily testable, so if I am wrong, you will know it fast. Below is my argument in a nutshell: Individuals who engage in tasks in which they perceive a consistent and high degree of present and anticipated novel and positive outcomes or ‘meaning’ (e.g. sporting events, creative activity, doing productive work) commonly report a feeling of high alertness and arousal that may be construed to be due to the activation of mid-brain dopamine systems. However, a significant subset of these individuals also report a feeling of pleasure that is characteristic of opioid release, but these reports occur only in non-stressed situations when the musculature is relaxed. Since relaxation engages opioid systems in the brain, and because opioid and dopamine systems stimulate each other, the resulting blissful states or ‘flow’ like states require the simultaneous engagement of resting protocols and meaningful cognitive states, behaviors that are very easily achieved. In this way, which engages both resting protocols and an active sense of meaning, both dopamine and opioid release can be increased in the brain, and provide a level of blissful engagement with life’s challenges, or ‘flow’ that can effectively mitigate stress and anxiety. https://www.scribd.com/doc/284056765/The-Book-of-Rest-The-Odd-Psychology-of-Doing-Nothing October 30, 2017 7 Maneras de Aprender de Tus Errores Como Empresario Reply […] serotonina puede reducir la ansiedad y la depresión. 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Your brain is […] November 24, 2017 7 Productivity Strategies Every Student Needs to Know – JoyInSixty Reply […] telling the difference between what is real and what is imagined and will release positive brain chemicals even while you’re imagining […] November 30, 2017 Hacking Into Your Happy Chemicals: Dopamine, Serotonin, Endorphins, & Oxytocin | CosmicMind Reply […] http://theutopianlife.com/2014/10/14/hacking-into-your-happy-chemicals-dopamine-serotonin-endorphins… […] December 9, 2017 5 Reasons Why Hiking is Good For You | The Utopian Life Reply […] makes you happyHiking is not only good exercise, but it makes you feel happy. Hiking releases endorphins and serotonin, the happy hormones. These help you to deal with anxiety and will stave away depression. Serotonin helps protect […] December 9, 2017 5 Reasons Why Hiking is Good For You – JoyInSixty Reply […] makes you happyHiking is not only good exercise, but it makes you feel happy. Hiking releases endorphins and serotonin, the happy hormones. These help you to deal with anxiety and will stave away depression. Serotonin helps protect […] December 10, 2017 7 Productivity Strategies Every Student Needs to Know – user's Blog! Reply […] telling the difference between what is real and what is imagined and will release positive brain chemicals even while you’re imagining […] December 10, 2017 5 Reasons Why Hiking is Good For You – user's Blog! Reply […] is not only good exercise, but it makes you feel happy. Hiking releases endorphins and serotonin, the happy hormones. These help you to deal with anxiety and will stave away depression. Serotonin helps protect […] LEAVE A REPLY Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment Name* Email* Website POST COMMENT Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Notify me of new posts by email. NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP Your name Email SIGN UP FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK FEATURED ON ABOUT THAI G’day! 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Serotonin is an example of a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger that is passed between nerve cells. When a nerve impulse reaches the axon at the end of a nerve, neurotransmitters are released which cross an area called the synapse to be received by a specific receptor on the end of a target nerve.

Oils Essential fatty acids increase serotonin production. These nutrients include the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, walnut and flax oil. Omega-6 fatty acids are found in canola, grapeseed, safflower, sunflower and wheat germ oils. Gamma-linoleic acid is found in spirulina or blue-green algae and black currant, evening primrose and borage oils. ... Fruits Bananas, kiwi, pineapple, plantains, plums, grapefruit, mango, honeydew and cantaloupe have a high serum concentration, which makes them very useful in serotonin production. Tomatoes and avocado are also rich in nutrients necessary for serotonin to develop and reach optimal levels in the brain. ... List of Foods With Serotonin by MAURA WOLF Last Updated: Aug 14, 2017 List of Foods With Serotonin Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, a naturally occurring chemical that can influence mood and appetite. B complex vitamins, such as thiamine and folic acid, also affect serotonin. Doctors prescribe antidepressants to help raise the brain’s serotonin levels in people suffering from depression. The brain uses the amino acid tryptophan to produce serotonin, as long as the process is not blocked by conflicting amino acids. Serotonin is also found in the digestive system, and certain foods may raise or lower serotonin levels. Diets lacking in tryptophan may cause people to have low serotonin levels and to experience depression, headaches and sleep disorders. Grains Foods rich in vitamin B such as brown rice, wheat germ, wholegrain cereals, yeast extracts and brewers' yeast, help with serotonin production, according to Scottish general practitioner and author, Dr. Dan Rutherford of NetDoctor. Eating granola, oatmeal, whole grain cereal or a whole grain muffin for breakfast will start your day with nutrients that help boost serotonin. Advertisement Powered By Fish, Poultry and Meat Salmon, fresh tuna, snapper, sardines, herring, mackerel and halibut are high in tryptophan and excellent sources of serotonin, according to the World’s Healthiest Foods nonprofit website. Poultry, such as chicken and turkey are excellent sources of the tryptophan necessary for serotonin to stay at an optimal level in the body and brain. Meat, including beef, lamb and liver can provide amino acids and other nutrients that facilitate the creation of serotonin. Nuts and Seeds Walnuts are especially beneficial for serotonin production. Flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, peanuts, almonds and cashews can increase serotonin in the body. Oils Essential fatty acids increase serotonin production. These nutrients include the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, walnut and flax oil. Omega-6 fatty acids are found in canola, grapeseed, safflower, sunflower and wheat germ oils. Gamma-linoleic acid is found in spirulina or blue-green algae and black currant, evening primrose and borage oils. Dairy Eggs are protein rich and contain amino acids and essential fatty acids necessary to produce serotonin. Egg whites are ranked very high on the serotonin food list. Lower levels of tryptophan are found in milk and a variety of cheeses, according to Outofstress.com. Cottage cheese and yogurt are also good foods to eat to increase and maintain your serotonin levels. (reference 3) Fruits Bananas, kiwi, pineapple, plantains, plums, grapefruit, mango, honeydew and cantaloupe have a high serum concentration, which makes them very useful in serotonin production. Tomatoes and avocado are also rich in nutrients necessary for serotonin to develop and reach optimal levels in the brain. Vegetables Corn, broccoli, cauliflower and green leafy vegetables such as spinach are serotonin-rich, as are baked potatoes with skin, mustard greens and mushrooms. Soy products, including soy milk, tofu and soybeans provide nutrients that help serotonin levels stay stable. Sea Vegetables Sea vegetables include kelp, seaweed and spirulina -- a blue-green algae -- contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is necessary for creating serotonin in the brain. Legumes and Beans Lentils, mung beans, chickpeas, peas, cooked beans – kidney, black, lima, navy and pinto -- are good sources of serotonin, as are foods such as hummus and lentil soup, which are made with these products. https://www.livestrong.com/article/164861-what-are-the-causes-of-low-serotonin-levels/

The list of serotonin-rich foods is a short one: walnuts. hickory nuts. pineapple. bananas. kiwis. plums. tomatoes.

inclusion of foods that have Tryptophan in our diet is very important. Top 10 Serotonin Foods Let us quickly look at the top Serotonin rich foods: 1. Seafood: Fatty fishes like Tuna, Clams, Oysters, Crabs, Mackerel, Salmon, Herrings, Sardines and also fish oil supplements are good sources of Serotonin. 2. Meat: Meat apart from proteins also has Serotonin. Meat is the known natural source of Serotonin. Meats like Beef, Pork, Liver, Turkey, and Chicken contain Serotonin and can help get rid of the serotonin deficiencies. Bacons are also great source of Serotonin. 3. Eggs: egg for healthy diet Save Ads by Eggs whites are another very important source of Serotonin. Eggs are everyday food, available easily and everyone loves them. Eggs also contain many other vitamins and vital nutrients required for body. Avoid consuming excess of egg yolk, as it contains lots of fats which can be harmful for heart health. 4. Dairy products: Dairy products such as Milk, Buttermilk, Curd, Cheese is a good source of Serotonin foods. Indian cheese, paneer also contain Serotonin. Apart from many vitamins and health nutrients, Tofu also contains serotonin. This is made of soy; hence you get real goodness of soy vitamins too. Soy milk or Soy can be consumed for its nutrients as well. 5. Vegetables: Vegetables like Garlic, Carrots, Squash, Okra, Asparagus, Broccoli, Spinach, Green beans, Potatoes, Cabbage, Beets, Lettuce, Onions and Tomatoes help in creation of Serotonin. All these are easily available in any market and help to boost level of Serotonin and hence are among the list of foods rich in serotonin. 6. Popcorn: popcorn healthy for diet Save Carbohydrate-rich food that contains fiber should be consumed to keep you relaxed and happy. Popcorn is an example of such food that contains serotonin. [ Read: High Carbohydrate Rich Foods ] 7. Nuts: Almonds, Peanuts, Cashew nuts, Pistachios, PineNuts, Peanutbutter, Hazelnuts and Walnuts help in making of Serotonin. Hence, their usage in food everyday can provide Iron in the body. These nuts also contain good amount of omega-3 fatty acids which help in maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails. [ Read: Selenium containing Rich Foods ] 8. Grains: Bran contains Serotonin in it which leads to proper cell functioning in the body. It also rich in fiber. Good examples of bran are rice bran, toasted wheat germ breads, cereals, potatoes and rice. 9. Beverages: Beverages like Black Tea, Tea, Cocoa, Coffee, Beer, and Wine have a small amount of Serotonin present in them. Though they can meet the Serotonin requirements in the body, but must be taken in small quantity due to the caffeine present in them. [ Read: L-Arginine Rich Foods ] 10. Seeds: Seeds are very rich source of Serotonin. They also contain Protein, Potassium, Zinc, Iron, B vitamins, E vitamins, Magnesium and Calcium. Pumpkin seeds, Squash seeds, Watermelon seeds, Sesame seeds, Flax seeds, Sunflower Seeds are some seeds that contain Serotonin. Sesame butter, also known as Tahini is a good source of Serotonin in food. This is high in calcium and Serotonin content. [ Read : Foods Rich in Niacin ] Some important tips: 1. Avoid excessive consumption of Serotonin. It can be dangerous. 2. Excessive intake can lead to weakening of bones, calcification of internal organs, increased risk of heart attack and many other vascular diseases. 3. Low serotonin can lead to loss of appetite, rickets, anaemia, muscle pain, improper bone formation, numbness, depression and lower immune system. 4. Serotonin deficiency symptoms are sweating, headache, nausea, high fever, irregular heartbeat and unconsciousness.

The list of serotonin-rich foods is a short one: walnuts. hickory nuts. pineapple. bananas. kiwis. plums. tomatoes.

inclusion of foods that have Tryptophan in our diet is very important. Top 10 Serotonin Foods Let us quickly look at the top Serotonin rich foods: 1. Seafood: Fatty fishes like Tuna, Clams, Oysters, Crabs, Mackerel, Salmon, Herrings, Sardines and also fish oil supplements are good sources of Serotonin. 2. Meat: Meat apart from proteins also has Serotonin. Meat is the known natural source of Serotonin. Meats like Beef, Pork, Liver, Turkey, and Chicken contain Serotonin and can help get rid of the serotonin deficiencies. Bacons are also great source of Serotonin. 3. Eggs: egg for healthy diet Save Ads by Eggs whites are another very important source of Serotonin. Eggs are everyday food, available easily and everyone loves them. Eggs also contain many other vitamins and vital nutrients required for body. Avoid consuming excess of egg yolk, as it contains lots of fats which can be harmful for heart health. 4. Dairy products: Dairy products such as Milk, Buttermilk, Curd, Cheese is a good source of Serotonin foods. Indian cheese, paneer also contain Serotonin. Apart from many vitamins and health nutrients, Tofu also contains serotonin. This is made of soy; hence you get real goodness of soy vitamins too. Soy milk or Soy can be consumed for its nutrients as well. 5. Vegetables: Vegetables like Garlic, Carrots, Squash, Okra, Asparagus, Broccoli, Spinach, Green beans, Potatoes, Cabbage, Beets, Lettuce, Onions and Tomatoes help in creation of Serotonin. All these are easily available in any market and help to boost level of Serotonin and hence are among the list of foods rich in serotonin. 6. Popcorn: popcorn healthy for diet Save Carbohydrate-rich food that contains fiber should be consumed to keep you relaxed and happy. Popcorn is an example of such food that contains serotonin. [ Read: High Carbohydrate Rich Foods ] 7. Nuts: Almonds, Peanuts, Cashew nuts, Pistachios, PineNuts, Peanutbutter, Hazelnuts and Walnuts help in making of Serotonin. Hence, their usage in food everyday can provide Iron in the body. These nuts also contain good amount of omega-3 fatty acids which help in maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails. [ Read: Selenium containing Rich Foods ] 8. Grains: Bran contains Serotonin in it which leads to proper cell functioning in the body. It also rich in fiber. Good examples of bran are rice bran, toasted wheat germ breads, cereals, potatoes and rice. 9. Beverages: Beverages like Black Tea, Tea, Cocoa, Coffee, Beer, and Wine have a small amount of Serotonin present in them. Though they can meet the Serotonin requirements in the body, but must be taken in small quantity due to the caffeine present in them. [ Read: L-Arginine Rich Foods ] 10. Seeds: Seeds are very rich source of Serotonin. They also contain Protein, Potassium, Zinc, Iron, B vitamins, E vitamins, Magnesium and Calcium. Pumpkin seeds, Squash seeds, Watermelon seeds, Sesame seeds, Flax seeds, Sunflower Seeds are some seeds that contain Serotonin. Sesame butter, also known as Tahini is a good source of Serotonin in food. This is high in calcium and Serotonin content. [ Read : Foods Rich in Niacin ] Some important tips: 1. Avoid excessive consumption of Serotonin. It can be dangerous. 2. Excessive intake can lead to weakening of bones, calcification of internal organs, increased risk of heart attack and many other vascular diseases. 3. Low serotonin can lead to loss of appetite, rickets, anaemia, muscle pain, improper bone formation, numbness, depression and lower immune system. 4. Serotonin deficiency symptoms are sweating, headache, nausea, high fever, irregular heartbeat and unconsciousness.

The Role of Dopamine and Sleep Research has found that dopamine plays a bigger role in sleep regulation than previously believed. It controls the production of the sleep hormone melatonin. (53) Research suggests that lack of sleep may reduce the number of dopamine receptors. (54)

leep Deprivation Differentially Affects Dopamine Receptor Subtypes in Mouse Striatum Miranda M. Lim,1 Jinbin Xu,2 David M. Holtzman,1 and Robert H. Mach2 Author information ► Copyright and License information ► The publisher's final edited version of this article is available at Neuroreport See other articles in PMC that cite the published article. Go to: Abstract The effects of sleep deprivation on dopaminergic systems remain elusive, in part due to the lack of selective ligands for dopamine receptor subtypes. We examined D1, D2 and D3 receptor density in the mouse brain after sleep deprivation by receptor autoradiography using [3H]SCH 23390 for D1R, [3H]raclopride for D2R, and [3H]WC-10 for D3R (a novel D3R-selective compound developed in our laboratory, not previously reported in mouse). Sleep-deprived mice showed a significant decrease in D1R, no change in D2R, and a significant increase in D3R binding in striatum. This pattern of dopamine receptor changes was not seen in mice subjected to restraint stress, suggesting specificity to sleep. These data provide evidence that brain dopaminergic circuits are remodeled after sleep deprivation. Keywords: Dopamine, Sleep Deprivation, Receptors, Dopamine D1, Receptors, Dopamine D2, Receptors, Dopamine D3, Autoradiography Go to: INTRODUCTION Multiple neurotransmitters are implicated in the sleep-wake cycle. There is recent evidence for the role of dopamine in the regulation of sleep and wakefulness. Microdialysis studies in rat have found that dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens exhibit a diurnal rhythm [1]. Mice lacking the dopamine transporter gene show increased wakefulness, while mice lacking the dopamine D2 receptor show significantly decreased wakefulness [2,3]. Medications used to maintain wakefulness increase dopaminergic activity by primarily targeting the dopamine transporter reuptake mechanism [4]. In addition, patients with Parkinsons Disease, who show neurodegeneration of the striatonigral dopaminergic system, experience sleep disturbances including excessive daytime sleepiness [5]. Taken together, these studies together suggest a probable role for dopamine in the maintenance of wakefulness. The effects of sleep deprivation on dopamine activity have recently been studied in the human brain using PET radiotracers. Healthy human subjects underwent one night of sleep deprivation and were imaged with [11C]raclopride, which targets primarily D2 receptors with less binding to D3 receptors [6]. [11C]raclopride binding was significantly reduced in the striatum and thalamus. Reduced binding suggests greater endogenous dopamine binding to D2/D3 receptors after sleep deprivation, possibly as a countermeasure to promote wakefulness during sleep deprivation [7]. However, the specific contribution of D3R to sleep deprivation remains to be determined. Until this point it has been difficult to examine D3R due to lack of selective pharmacologic tools. Recently, a novel D3R selective radioligand was developed in our laboratory, [3H]WC-10, or [3H]4-(Dimethylamino)-N-[4-(4-(2-Methoxyphenyl)Piperazin-1-yl)Butyl]Benzamide, a N-phenyl piperazine analog which displays high affinity and selectivity for D3R [8–10]. The first quantitative autoradiographic analysis of the binding of [3H]WC-10 was performed in rat and rhesus monkey brain confirming localization of D3R to the striatum, among other brain regions [9]. The aim of this study is to characterize the effects of sleep deprivation upon D1R, D2R, and D3R binding in mouse striatum. As a comparison to sleep deprivation, we also examined the effects of restraint stress upon D1R, D2R, and D3R binding in mouse striatum. This is the first report of the use of the [3H]WC-10 to localize D3R binding in mouse.

However, the dopamine consumed in food doesn’t cross the blood–brain barrier and so has no impact on your brain. If you want to elevate your dopamine level with food, you’ll need to use a workaround. Dopamine is made from the amino acid l-tyrosine which is commonly found in protein-rich foods. Eating a diet high in l-tyrosine can help ensure you’ve got the basic building blocks needed for dopamine synthesis. Here’s a list of foods, drinks, and spices known to increase l-tyrosine or dopamine directly: (6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12) all animal products almonds apples avocados bananas beets chocolate coffee fava beans green leafy vegetables green tea lima beans oatmeal olive oil oregano peanuts rosemary sea vegetables sesame and pumpkin seeds soy products turmeric watermelon wheat germ Fava beans, also called broad beans, are one of the few foods that contain l-dopa, a direct precursor to dopamine that is used to treat Parkinson’s disease. (13) Foods high in natural probiotics such as yogurt, kefir, and raw sauerkraut can also increase natural dopamine production.

Low dopamine levels can lead to lack of motivation, fatigue, addictive behavior, mood swings and memory loss. Learn how to increase dopamine naturally. dopamine provides motivation What you’ll learn about increasing dopamine in this article: What dopamine is and why it’s so important The effect of dopamine on your brain and the symptoms of a dopamine deficiency Unhealthy ways to increase your dopamine level (though many of us do these!) How to increase dopamine with food, supplements and lifestyle changes How to harness your brain’s reward system to increase your level of dopamine Dopamine is a major neurotransmitter that’s a key factor in motivation, productivity, and focus. Dopamine provides your zest for life. Unfortunately, lifestyle habits, diet, and illness can deplete dopamine levels, draining the joy out of life. If you feel that you aren’t living your life to its fullest, a low dopamine level may be the reason. Fortunately, there are many ways you can increase dopamine naturally. What Is Dopamine? There are about 86 billion neurons in the human brain. They communicate with each other via brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Dopamine is one of the most extensively studied neurotransmitters because it is linked to so many aspects of human behavior including motivation, pleasure seeking, and addictions. It plays important roles in attention, memory, mood, learning, sleep, movement, and anticipatory pleasure. Dopamine dysfunction is the cause of a handful of diseases, most notably Parkinson’s disease which is caused by the death of dopamine-producing cells. Relatively few neurons create dopamine and those that do are found in a just few areas of the brain. Dopamine is also used by a few systems outside the central nervous system such as the kidneys, pancreas, and immune cells. This dopamine is created locally since it does not freely move across the brain’s protective blood-brain barrier. Dopamine is associated with traits that seem uniquely human, yet it is widespread in the animal kingdom and occurs in some plants. What Does Dopamine Do? Now let’s take a look at how dopamine impacts your daily life. Dopamine is your “motivation molecule.” It boosts your drive, focus, and concentration. It enables you to plan ahead and resist impulses so you can achieve your goals. It gives you that “I did it!” lift when you accomplish what you set out to do. It gets your competitive juices flowing and provides the thrill of the chase in all aspects of life — business, sports, and love. Additionally dopamine is in charge of your pleasure-reward system. It allows you to experience feelings of enjoyment, bliss, and even euphoria. Too little dopamine can leave you unfocused, unmotivated, lethargic, and even depressed. Dopamine is so critical to motivation that dopamine-deficient lab mice lack motivation to eat. Alarmingly, without dopamine, they will choose to starve even when food is readily available. (1) Dopamine Deficiency Symptoms If you are low in dopamine, you’ll have little joy for life. You’ll be low on energy and motivation, and will often rely on caffeine, sugar, or other stimulants to get through the day. Here’s a list of the most common dopamine deficiency symptoms: (2) lack of motivation fatigue apathy procrastination inability to feel pleasure low libido inability to connect with others sleep problems mood swings hopelessness memory loss inability to concentrate inability to complete tasks engaging in self-destructive behaviors, especially addictions Dopamine deficiency can also manifest as certain psychiatric disorders including depression, attention deficit disorder (ADD), bipolar disorder, and addictions of all kinds. (3, 4) Causes of Low Dopamine There are many underlying causes of dopamine deficiency. The most common culprits include poor diet, nutritional deficiencies, addictions, obesity, thyroid disorders, and the use of dopamine antagonist drugs. Related article — Dopamine Deficiency, Depression and Mental Health What “Increase Dopamine” Really Means When we say that a food, supplement or activity increases dopamine, it sounds like more dopamine is being made. This is often the case, but not always. ✓ Dopamine-Boosting Supplements Effective for increased motivation, energy & focus – Amazon.com Sometimes the amount of dopamine has not changed, but it’s being better utilized. (5) What’s really going on could be one or more of the following: more dopamine is being made dopamine breakdown is slowing down more dopamine is being recirculated more dopamine receptors are being created existing dopamine receptors are working better We will use the phrase “increase dopamine” as a convenient shortcut for this entire group of neurochemical changes. Unhealthy Ways to Increase Dopamine When we take an action that helps to ensure our survival — such as eating, drinking, having sex, or making money — dopamine is released. This ensures that we’ll continue to do what’s needed to survive (unlike the dopamine-deprived lab mice). Neuroscientist John Coates reveals in his national bestseller The Hour Between Dog and Wolf that these natural activities can raise dopamine by 50-100% over baseline levels, but drugs increase dopamine much, much more. Nicotine increases it by 200%, cocaine 400%, and amphetamines a jaw-dropping 1,000%. Few people realize that they are “self-medicating” to get a dopamine boost when they engage in potentially addictive and self-destructive behaviors. The use and abuse of caffeine, alcohol, sugar, drugs, shopping, sex, video games, online porn, power, and gambling are all effective, but temporary, dopamine boosters. Fortunately, you don’t have to resort to “sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll” to boost your dopamine levels. There are many healthy, proven ways to increase dopamine naturally instead. Related article — How to Balance Norepinephrine Levels Naturally Dopamine-Boosting Foods Potatoes, tomatoes, avocados, broccoli, oranges, spinach, and Brussels sprouts contain some dopamine. Bananas are a particularly rich source of dietary dopamine. However, the dopamine consumed in food doesn’t cross the blood–brain barrier and so has no impact on your brain. If you want to elevate your dopamine level with food, you’ll need to use a workaround. Dopamine is made from the amino acid l-tyrosine which is commonly found in protein-rich foods. Eating a diet high in l-tyrosine can help ensure you’ve got the basic building blocks needed for dopamine synthesis. Here’s a list of foods, drinks, and spices known to increase l-tyrosine or dopamine directly: (6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12) all animal products almonds apples avocados bananas beets chocolate coffee fava beans green leafy vegetables green tea lima beans oatmeal olive oil oregano peanuts rosemary sea vegetables sesame and pumpkin seeds soy products turmeric watermelon wheat germ Fava beans, also called broad beans, are one of the few foods that contain l-dopa, a direct precursor to dopamine that is used to treat Parkinson’s disease. (13) Foods high in natural probiotics such as yogurt, kefir, and raw sauerkraut can also increase natural dopamine production. ✓ Probiotic Supplements Reduce stress, anxiety & depression – Amazon.com Surprisingly, the health of your intestinal flora impacts your production of neurotransmitters. An overabundance of bad bacteria leaves toxic byproducts called lipopolysaccharides which destroy the brain cells that make dopamine. (14) Dopamine-Depleting Foods to Avoid If you want to increase dopamine, there are some foods you should avoid as well. Eating a lot of saturated fat also decreases dopamine receptor sensitivity. (15) Sugar has been found to boost dopamine, but this is a temporary, unhealthy boost that is more drug-like than food-like and ultimately contributes to deficiency. (16) And don’t reach for artificial sweeteners instead. Aspartame decreases brain levels of both dopamine and serotonin, another important mood-boosting neurotransmitter. (17) Related article — Balancing Neurotransmitters to Take Control of Your Life Dopamine Supplements It’s not always possible to raise dopamine levels with food alone. Here’s a look at some of the best supplements that raise dopamine levels naturally. L-tyrosine is the first dopamine supplement to consider. This amino acid is the precursor to dopamine. If you don’t get enough l-tyrosine in your diet, or your body doesn’t properly convert it, you won’t be able to synthesize adequate dopamine. ✓ Tyrosine Supplements Proven dopamine enhancer for increased motivation – Amazon.com Stress, exhaustion, and illness can increase your need for l-tyrosine as well. Mucuna pruriens is a tropical legume that contains l-dopa, a dopamine precursor. Mucuna pruriens supplements are sold to enhance mood, memory, overall brain health, anti-aging, and libido. (19) This herb was found to work even better than levodopa medications for Parkinson’s, a disease characterized by low dopamine levels. (20) Curcumin is the main active ingredient in the spice turmeric. It readily crosses the blood-brain barrier where it boosts levels of dopamine. (21, 22, 23) ✓ Curcumin + Turmeric Supplements For positive mood, better memory & brain protection – Amazon.com Curcumin has been found to be as effective for treating depression as the popular antidepressant Prozac. (24) When buying a curcumin supplement look for one that contains piperine, a compound found in black pepper that increases curcumin absorption by a remarkable 2,000%. (25) Ginkgo biloba is traditionally used for a variety of brain-related problems such as poor concentration, memory problems, headaches, fatigue, mental confusion, depression, and anxiety. (26) One of the ways ginkgo works is by raising dopamine. (27, 28) L-theanine is a unique compound found in green, black, and white teas. It increases levels of dopamine as well as serotonin and the relaxing neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). (29) ✓ L-Theanine Supplements For sharper focus & stress reduction – Amazon.com L-theanine improves recall, learning, and positive mood. (30) You can get a dopamine boost by either taking an l-theanine supplement or by drinking tea. Green tea is a good choice if you are concerned about your caffeine intake since it contains a modest 25 mg of caffeine. (31) Phosphatidylserine acts as your brain’s “gatekeeper,” regulating nutrients and waste in and out of your brain. It can increase dopamine levels and improve memory, concentration, learning, and symptoms of ADHD. (32, 33, 34)

Few foods actually make it past the blood-brain barrier and this actually includes tyrosine. “Tyrosine is one of the 22 key amino acids that are used for building proteins around the body. In addition to this, however, it also raises the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, namely

10 WAYS YOU CAN INCREASE DOPAMINE LEVELS IN THE BRAIN WITHOUT MEDICATION STEPHAN GARDNERJANUARY 20, 2016 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter 79.6K SHARES We're creating viewer supported news. Become a member! I'm in! “Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps control the brain’s reward and pleasure centers. Dopamine also helps regulate movement and emotional response, and it enables us not only to see rewards, but to take action to move toward them.” advertisement - learn more – Psychology Today There are a lot of articles on the internet about dopamine and how it affects your mood, behaviour, energy, and focus. What’s not commonly spoken about, however, is how dopamine is affected by your perception. Discussed more rarely still is the reason why your dopamine levels may be low. Below are 10 ways to increase your dopamine levels, courtesy of Power of Positivity, as well as my own observations regarding the underlying issues which may have led to each situation and how to tackle them. 1. Don’t Get Addicted “Many people get addicted to something because it gives them some kind of instant gratification – drugs, alcohol, sex, pornography, shopping, and other addictive behaviors actually have the opposite effect on dopamine levels in the long-term. In essence, when we get overly addicted to something, the ‘reward circuitry’ of our brain kicks into overdrive and we crave the ‘quick hit.’ This is not a sustainable solution for dopamine production, which can and should be done naturally.” What’s missing here is the fact that addiction is quite often a result of low dopamine, meaning addiction is more of an attempt to fix an already existing problem. In essence, “the underpinning of your addictive personality is a lack of fulfillment from within, with a resulting urge to achieve fulfillment through substances, objects, or events that relieve the inevitable pain – for a while.” (source) “When we receive a reward of any kind, dopamine is released in our brains. Over time, this stimulus and release of dopamine can lead to learning. Researchers have recently found that how quickly and permanently we learn things relates directly to how much dopamine we have available in our brains. As we get rewarded over and over again for something, we learn that we should keep doing whatever that is very deeply, and it’s hard to unlearn those kinds of behaviours.” (source) advertisement - learn more What this means is that low dopamine is a response to a lifestyle that doesn’t offer much in terms of reward to the person living it. It may be a response to the environment you’re living in, the clothes you’re wearing, the tight budget you’re working within, the relationship choices you’ve made or have been made for you, or a result of trauma where there was no perceived reward. It’s very easy to understand how dopamine levels may appear low when we consider all the potentials leading to less rewarding lifestyles and life experiences. What’s necessary, then, is less of a ‘don’t get addicted’ approach and more of an ‘increase the rewards in your life’ style of applied advice. The fact is, you’ll constantly feel less fulfilled through low dopamine when you’re not (or are unable to) fill your day with things that inspire and reward you. What this means is, the most effective protection against addiction and the greatest advantage to high dopamine levels is a defense against low-rewarding activities and an offence of rewarding actions, activities, and ultimately, a lifestyle of fulfillment and achievement. Also, because addiction is most often rooted in past traumatic experiences, where emotions create a fight-or-flight response that becomes rooted in your core emotions, it’s vitally important to seek proper and effective help in dissolving past trauma. Doing so can only help you perceive more rewarding experiences in your life, rather than filtering experiences through a ‘traumatized’ awareness. 2. Checklist Small Tasks “Dopamine increases when we are organized and finish tasks – regardless if the task is small or large. So, don’t allow your brain to worry about things that need to be done. Instead, write these tasks down and then check them off one at a time. It’s been shown that it’s more satisfying to the brain’s dopamine levels when we physically check something off of our to-do list. Also, write down and check stuff off regardless if you can mentally remember the tasks.” While reading the book Principles of Self-Management, I came across a brilliantly well-researched understanding of motivation when it comes to tasks. In short, if a task is greater than 25% of a change in a person’s routine, the person will be overwhelmed and feel incapable of achieving it. This leads them to self-defeat and self-sabotage to avoid accomplishing the task. On the other side, if a task is less than 10% different from a person’s normal routine, they won’t do it because it won’t have enough meaning for them to do so. As such, it’s wise to make sure you write down goals and tasks that are in between this 10-25% range of new behaviours and actions; otherwise, you just won’t do it. However, this 10-25% range is simply a guide for tasks that are not directly linked to our highest values. In reality, if you can link a task to your highest values and see clearly how it will help you accomplish what’s truly most important to you, you’ll do it. If you can’t see how it will help fulfill your highest values, you’ll procrastinate, hesitate, and get frustrated in the attempt to do it. By linking a task to your highest values, you’ll both increase the chances of you doing it and also increase the reward you will feel when you accomplish it, a result of producing more dopamine in the brain. 3. Create Something “For us writers, painters, sculptors, poets, singers, dancers, and other artists, we can identify with this. When we’re in creative mode, we can become hyper-focused. As a result, we can enter a state called flow. Dopamine is the brain chemical that allows us to achieve this state. The lesson is this: take up a hobby or activity in which you actually create something tangible. Try something like arts, crafts, auto repair, drawing, photography, or something else that sounds interesting.” Sparking your creative drive is an effective way to increase your potential for feeling great, achieving goals, and inspiring yourself through your accomplishments. However, it can also be a distraction from a feel-bad lifestyle, if it’s not maintained with a purpose in mind. Whenever you’re working on a project, creative or not, that truly inspires you, you’ll activate your ‘flow state,’ where time and space seem to stand still. So how to you determine what it is that truly inspires you? The most important goal in revealing your most authentic creative energy is to remove the creative energies of other people from your life. So many of us look up to the creations of others, whether works of art or music, and their works or talents take up time and space in our own minds. This isn’t necessarily bad, but it can influence your own beliefs about what you can create. If you compare yourself to others and minimize yourself, you’ll repress your own creative ability. This can affect your dopamine levels, because if you can’t see your own creations as rewarding to you, as much as someone else’s, you’ll feel inferior and incapable. One very effective way of neutralizing the influence other people have on your mind is to literally look at the negatives or downsides of their accomplishment. This isn’t to practice being a critic, but rather, enable you to de-infatuate with their creative powers and stop minimizing your own. Once you recognize that your creative endeavours can exist on the level of those you admire, through practice (just like they did), you’ll increase your ability to see your own creations as meaningful and rewarding. 4. Exercise “Same ‘ole, same ‘ole, we know. We’ve discussed repeatedly the importance and benefits of physical exercise, and we’re just going to add to this list again. So, not only does exercise help us relieve stress, achieve better physical health and make us more productive; it boosts our dopamine levels. More specifically, exercise increases multiple neurotransmitters – serotonin and endorphins, besides dopamine, receive a boost. Here’s something else cool: the exercise needn’t not be arduous. Simply taking a stroll or climbing some stairs will achieve a good dopamine jolt.” Exercise is important, but it can also become a crutch or an addiction if it’s not something being integrated into your daily life. Many people go to the gym to work out, yet don’t live a life that requires the body they’re building. Another thing is actually placing a value on exercise itself. Many people buy the gym memberships, yet never use them. So what’s the easiest way to make exercise a part of your life? There’s a branch of exercise called ‘functional training’ in which exercises are tailored to help you with your daily tasks. This is much more helpful than just ‘workouts,’ because if you can train your body into a state where your daily tasks are not taxing on your energy, you’ll breeze through the day and have more energy at the end of it. Staying in a high energy state instead of being brought down by your daily tasks will help you be more inspired during your day and innately feel more inspired to exercise. 5. Get a Streak Going “As with creating a checklist, getting a streak going is a great way to increase dopamine levels. For the purpose of this article, a streak is a visual reminder of how many days in a row you’ve achieved something. Get a calendar specifically for this purpose: write down whatever goal you have and the days of the week or month when they are scheduled. For example, if you work out on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, mark these days on the calendar for the month. As you finish a workout, mark it off on the calendar. Keep a streak going, and you’ll keep the dopamine coming.” While the ‘streak’ is a useful tool for celebrating accomplishments, it unfortunately has a downside: routine. Doing something enough times becomes a routine, especially if the action isn’t continuously fulfilling to your highest values. To counter this, try adapting the ‘goal’ or ‘action’ in terms of efficiency and effectiveness. By continuously finding ways to improve the performance of the behaviour, over time, you can look back at how many times you’ve done it, but also how much better you’ve become at it. This way, your performance becomes a competition with yourself, which increases your potential for feeling rewarded as you master a skill. 6. Increase Tyrosine “Of the chemicals that make up dopamine, none are more important than tyrosine. In fact, tyrosine is considered the building block of dopamine. Therefore, it is important that you get enough of this protein. There’s a large list of foods that increase Tyrosine, including: Almonds, Avocados, Bananas, Beef, Chicken, Chocolate, Coffee, Eggs, Green Tea, Watermelon, Yogurt.” Food is a reward, not a chore. This is the difference between living to eat and eating to live. While it’s important to utilize foods to your advantage, it’s just as important to recognize that the brain is its own best pharmacy. Few foods actually make it past the blood-brain barrier and this actually includes tyrosine. “Tyrosine is one of the 22 key amino acids that are used for building proteins around the body. In addition to this, however, it also raises the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, namely dopamine and norepinephrine. These are famous for being ‘feel good’ chemicals that can help boost mood and elevate concentration, making tyrosine a popular nootropic. However, tyrosine is completely incapable of passing the BBB. This way, no matter how much of it you were to take, you’d feel almost no effects.” (source) The truth is, tyrosine must be bonded with another molecule to make it past the blood-brain barrier, so tyrosine in itself isn’t capable of making significant impacts on the brain. However, through natural digestion and regulating healthy bodily function, it can assist the brain in having to work less on fixing an unhealthy system, which in turn can help increase the potential for dopamine and dopamine related good feelings. 7. Listen to Music “Do you ever wonder why music makes you happy? I mean, we can be in the dumps one moment but once we put on our favorite jam, we’re swaying and shaking away…feeling pretty good about ourselves too! The reason for this is that listening to music increases dopamine levels. In fact, scientists say that listening to music has the same effect as eating our favorite foods or watching our favorite T.V. show. So, when you’re feeling down, throw on some of your favorite tunes and jam out!” Listening to music can increase dopamine levels temporarily, but what we’re really looking for is a lasting fulfillment feeling so you can make your daily life enjoyable and productive for your goals. Also, popular music these days is often manufactured in such a way as to prey on your brain’s chemical dependency, making much of music a form of substance addiction. However, music has been a part of human history since as far as we can see, so its influence on our brain is greatly appreciated. In fact, one of the greatest cultural appreciations throughout history has been music. So, listen to music, but just make sure it’s not the only source of dopamine in your life. 8. Meditate “As with exercise, we are discovering more and more benefits to meditation. We are again adding to the list. As we discussed, the human brain is susceptible to a variety of addictions. One other addictive habit that we have is overthinking. In fact, some Buddhists have a phrase for this addiction: ‘monkey mind.’ Overthinking is not merely a distracting habit, it’s also a genuine compulsion that leaves us in a perplexing state, while also having a negative effect on our spiritual development. However, scientists are finally catching up to what Buddhists have known for thousands of years: meditation and mindfulness are essential to a healthy mind.” Meditation can be a highly effective form of dopamine increase if done properly, as it can weed out the mental influences which may be causing your chemistry to be less than desired. With the intent of reaching a state of self-fulfillment, meditation clears out the mental clutter and replaces it with presence and fulfillment for just being alive. This is a state available to every human and can help assist our daily lives by increasing our awareness of what feels good for us and what we don’t resonate with. 9. Take Supplements “While there are some great ways to increase dopamine levels, sometimes we’re facing a time crunch. Fortunately, there are natural supplements on the market that have been shown to increase dopamine levels. Here are a few: Acetyl-l-tyrosine: Another building block of dopamine. A healthy dose of this makes it easier for the brain to produce dopamine. Curcumin: An active ingredient that’s also common in curry spices and turmeric. Ginkgo Biloba: A tremendously popular wonder supplement that’s also believed to boost dopamine levels and keep it circulating in the brain longer. L-theanine: Increases multiple neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine. Green tea is a terrific source for this.” (source) While supplements can impact our dopamine response, they should by no means replace your own inner potential for fulfillment. That responsibility lies with you and you alone. However, with respect to inner wisdom, without knowing what feeling amazing actually feels like, it’s difficult to strive for it as a goal. Supplements can help us get there so we can have a reference point for what our potential can be. The trick is to facilitate change in our lives, enough so that the need for supplementation to feel good is lower than the feel goods we actually experience in our life. 10. Toxic Cleansing “As miraculous as our bodies are, we do accumulate toxins and bacteria that is bad for us. Endotoxins are the kind that can cause our immune systems to get out of whack, and it also constrains the production of dopamine. Here are a couple tips for helping cleanse the gut of endotoxins: eat fermented food, get enough sleep, and resist the urge to indulge in fatty or sugary foods.” Whenever you’re not fulfilled in your life, you run the risk of overindulging in sugary and sweet foods in an attempt to temporarily fulfill yourself. However, if you find fulfillment through the challenge and support of your day, you’re more likely to eat for the tasks you’re doing instead of eating just to feel good. How you eat and how fulfilled you are are directly correlated. If you’re actively enjoying the challenges of your life, you’re more likely to consume foods that serve your highest interests and health, because you see a reason to eat well. Controlling how you eat is less important than finding fulfillment in what you do. So the next time you find yourself craving that candy bar, ask yourself if there isn’t something else you could eat that could help you find fulfillment. Also, notice what you are doing at the time you’re craving sugar and ask yourself if it’s really something you need to do, or can you delegate it to someone else so you can get back to things that inspire you. By focusing on what inspires and fulfills you, you’ll find yourself actively seeking to better your health without having to really focus on it.