If your brain cells don't receive enough food and oxygen, they won't function optimally. Under-functioning brain cells require dopamine to boost their metabolism. Dopamine stimulates these cells to work more efficiently. Medications like Adderall work by stimulating dopamine production. However, you can also naturally boost brain metabolism through a healthier diet, exercise, and sleep.
Diet:
Eating brain-healthy foods can protect your memory and cognition. Include green leafy vegetables, coffee, tea, poultry, citrus, fatty fish, whole grains, eggs, beans, nuts, olive oil, berries, dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more), and raisins in your diet.
Sleep:
Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep per night for optimal brain function. Getting 6-8 hours of sleep per night can reduce the risk of dementia. Establish a sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time daily.
Exercise:
Exercise can remodel your brain. Adults need at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity weekly for the most benefits.
Other natural ways to boost dopamine include:
• Reducing saturated fat intake
• Getting sunshine and vitamin D
• Meditating
• Taking probiotics
• Practicing dopamine fasting (abstaining from over-stimulating activities like social media, video games, and junk food) to reset the brain's dopamine receptors.
By incorporating these habits into your lifestyle, you can support healthy brain metabolism and optimize your brain function.