While serotonin often gets the spotlight, it’s important to give dopamine some much-deserved attention, too, according to neuroscientist psychiatrist Daniel Amen, M.D. (who just released a series of Instagram reels on this very topic). Certain foods can trigger the release of dopamine, while diets high in added sugars and saturatefats1 can disrupt it. A lack of activity (physical exercise) and rest (sleep) can also impact dopamine levels for the worse. Other foods that contain tyrosine are avocado and dark chocolate. “If you eat a higher protein, lower simple carbohydrate diet you’re going to have more tyrosine and dopamine available on the brain.” Amen specifically recommends high-intensity interval training (HIIT) styles when seeking this particular mood-boosting effect. As an example, he suggests going for a brisk walk and then doing four spurts where you run or walk as fast as you can for one minute to help boost dopamine. Whether you’re on a stationary bike, taking a hot girl walk or even going for a run, incorporating these challenging bursts into your daily activity can help elevate both your heart rate and your mood. Through a combination of a healthy diet and exercise (no surprise there) and supplements, you can boost your brain health and begin to take your mood into your own hands.
