ADHD craves dopamine like zombies crave brains

I’ve spoken and written about physiological and neurochemical differences in the ADHD brain. I’ll say it at least one more time here: ADHD is not a deficit in attention, it’s a deficit in dopamine, and we will do almost anything we can to increase dopamine levels in our brains. ADHD brains crave dopamine like zombies crave brains.

There is something non-destructive, non-inattentive, and healthy you can do to boost your dopamine levels every day: modify your diet and eat with intention to feed your brain.

When I want to build a house, I need to get all the raw materials together before I hammer the first nail. Same holds true here. Assemble foods rich in dopamine’s raw material: the amino acid tyrosine.

Foods rich in this protein not only help in creating dopamine, they also work to balance your thyroid functions. Studies have shown that tyrosine helps to boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve sleep. I would consider any and all of these side effects a win!

#adhdtips

To increase dopamine levels, stack your daily menu with meals and snacks that contain protein-rich foods like beef, poultry, fish, eggs, pumpkin seeds, almonds, walnuts, and cheese.

Like pasta? Subscribe and leave me a comment, and I’ll give you my simple recipe for protein-rich and tasty homemade pasta that takes about as much time to make as boiling a pot of water. When you have it together, sprinkle some chopped almonds or toss on a serving of pepitas.

Pair these proteins with essential fatty acids like those found in avocados and soluble fiber like lima beans or Jerusalem artichoke and you’ll have balanced brain fuel that supports your brain and whole-body health.