6 Research-Backed and Natural Ways to Boost Your Neurotransmitters

June 22, 2022

Expert review by Dr. Suman Khulbe, MD.

Statistics show that by the age of 40, around 50% of the population will have had or have a mental illness. It’s actually such a big problem that it meets the definition of an epidemic. We hope the guide will enlighten and address this challenge.

According to the Neuropsychiatry Journal, any structural changes in various regions in the human brain have been linked to:

Anxiety
Poor memory
Brain fog
Inability to handle stress
Lack of concentration
Low energy

These changes are often associated with a neurochemical imbalance that impacts a person’s behaviour. Most neurodegenerative disorders require therapeutic intervention. But how you treat the problem depends on how serious the disease really is. However, most treatment opportunities will focus on increasing the neurotransmitter levels and restoring chemical balance.

From a SHINE customer: "SHINE Unstress formula helps me deal with stressful workdays without getting wrapped up in the problem and deal with it head on instead. Overall I feel more happy and productive when using this product" - Riva

SHOP

Why Are Neurotransmitters So Important for Mental Health?

Research estimates that mental disorders can occur due to poor neurotransmission. In other words, there is a lack of communication between all the neurons in the human brain. For example, people who struggle with depression have low serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, which could lead to the development of the disease.

Symptoms of Low Levels

When there is too low dopamine, serotonin, or glutamate levels, in the brain, the system experiences a chemical imbalance. The constant fluctuations are often said to be causing mental health disorders, particularly anxiety and depression.

The possible symptoms of low neurotransmitters include:

Extreme mood swings
Agitation
Insomnia or oversleep
Drastic appetite changes
Lack of interest to communicate with other people
Lack of empathy
Feeling numb
Thoughts of self-harm or hurting others
Unable to stick to a daily routine
Drug or alcohol abuse
Poor concentration levels

But, there is more to chemical imbalance than it meets the eye. Chemical imbalances are not the only contributor to mental health problems. There are other causes that affect the neurotransmitters and the central nervous system.

Key Neurotransmitters and Role

The moment a nerve impulse reaches the edge of the nerve fibre, the body releases chemical substances known as neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters then make their way across the synapse, which is a gap that leads to a different nerve. Then, they continue sending impulses across the entire human body.

Our system has more than 100 neurotransmitters. However, only a handful do all the work. These include:

Dopamine – This valuable chemical messenger interferes with the impulses in the brain in the area responsible for controlling movement. This is also the section of the central nervous system that plays a valuable component in thoughts and emotions. Reports show that insufficient dopamine levels could trigger problems with schizophrenia and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).
Serotonin – This chemical has a direct impact on the way we sleep, including our mood and appetite. Those who experience depression typically have low serotonin levels. Therefore, they take medications to control serotonin fluctuations.
Glutamate – This is another key component in the human body. It prepares the neurons to “fire” when necessary. Disorders such as autism, schizophrenia, OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), and depression could be caused by issues with glutamate production.

6 Natural Ways to Increase Your Neurotransmitter Levels

Restoring the psychological and behavioural response should be your top priority. Depending on the type of mental health issue, patients may be taking antidepressants, anti-anxiety, mood-stabilizing, or antipsychotic medication.

However, there are also natural ways to increase neurotransmitter levels. Here is how and why they can help.

1. Eating Healthy and Nutritious Meals

Supplying the body with nutrients can aid the central nervous system. Healthy meals rich in protein are packed with amino acids. The amino acid, known as tyrosine, which is found in protein meals, has a vital role to play in dopamine production, research shows. Since the body has enough enzymes to turn the tyrosine into dopamine, you can replenish your dopamine sources and increase the levels naturally.

When it comes to healthy eating, there is also another tactic that will come in handy. Animal studies show that saturated fats, particularly those obtained from full-fat dairy products, butter, and animal fat, could hinder dopamine production.

A clinical trial found that rats that obtained 50% of their calories directly from saturated fats experienced low dopamine production. But, those who focused on unsaturated fats managed to maintain normal dopamine signalling. The fact is, these statistics were noticed even without the difference in blood sugar levels, hormones, body fat, and weight.

Therefore, to restore a proper chemical balance, it is a good idea to cut back on saturated fats and opt for unsaturated fats instead.

2. Doing Physical Activity

Exercise can benefit chemical imbalance in many ways. The mental benefits of physical activity are astounding, explained the Harvard Medical School.

The more people exercise, the easier it is to decrease the stress hormones in the body, such as cortisol and adrenaline. It will also promote healthy endorphin production, which is a chemical that functions as a natural painkiller and mood boost.

In the long-run, physical activity can renew peoples’ energy and vigour. But, most importantly, it can restore emotional balance. The reason for that is relatively simple. When you lose weight, you regain your stamina and strength.

Because of that, your self-image improves, and you learn to master self-control, self-confidence, and pride. These essential lifestyle strategies will help you both mentally and physically.

Based on three-month research, doing 1 hour of yoga- 6 days a week can drastically boost dopamine production. At the same time, other studies show that intense training, a couple of times a week, can be incredibly beneficial for improving motor control and the dopamine system.

3. Consuming Probiotics

New studies show that the brain and gut are interconnected. It’s no wonder why people call the gut our "second brain." Because the gut is full of nerve cells, it can create countless neurotransmitters – one of which is dopamine.

Scientists estimate some bacteria species that thrive inside the gut can also produce dopamine. When there are too many invading pathogens, people experience a sudden shift in behaviour and mood.

Although more research is necessary, probiotics can promote gut health. When taken in proper amounts, the probiotics can have a direct impact on the bacteria and decrease the symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, researchers need to evaluate the exact role probiotic supplements can have on dopamine production and how impactful their effect can be.

4. Getting Enough Sleep

The moment the body releases dopamine, it makes us feel awake and alert. The dopamine levels naturally decrease at night and increase in the morning. Allowing the body to get ready for the rest of the day.

However, when people force their system to remain awake at night, it takes a massive toll on their dopamine receptors. As a result, dopamine production drastically decreases in the morning. To restore your concentration and balance out the dopamine levels, it’s best to sleep from 7 to 9 hours at night. This sleeping routine can get the body back on track.

5. Meditating

Mediation is a practical option for calming the mind. But, there is more to meditation than just sitting and relaxing. Studies indicate that those who practice meditation can boost their dopamine release by 65%. These results were recorded in teachers who taught meditation. The statistics were compared to individuals who rested quietly and those who meditated for 1 hour.

Mediation proved to be a worthwhile strategy. Not only did it increase the dopamine levels, but it also helped people maintain their positive mood. They also experienced a heightened sensory image.

6. Taking Natural Nootropic Supplements

How do nootropics work?

Nootropics are also often called “smart drugs” for their ability to enhance memory, creativity, drive, and focus. Each of these brain boosters works a bit differently to increase mental function. Nootropics often act as vasodilators, meaning they dilate the vessels and arteries in our noggins, according to an article published in the journal Evidenced-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. That dilation increases blood flow and floods our brains with nutrients and oxygen. This flood of valuable ingredients goes to work on cognitive performance by impacting neurotransmitters. That’s just one of the many mechanisms at play.

Great! Now what?

Nootropics sound good on paper, right? But you don’t have time to sift through a list of herbs, buy them, and then brew a magic potion, click your heels three times, and hope for the best.

No worries. We did the work for you, making it easy-peasy. The body of research surrounding nootropics is ever-growing. Here we cover the nuts and bolts and explain the science behind what we believe to be the two best natural supplements. We believe these six powerhouses from nature have the potential to support your production of neurotransmitters.

1. SHINE Energy ®

SHINE Energy natural supplement to increase energy

SHINE Energy® includes Non-GMO, Vegan and Gluten-Free naturally-derived herbs to increase energy and resistance to stress. A proprietary blend of Canadian grown 5 year old American Ginseng root, one of the purest available, standardized to 5% ginsenosides and AlphaWave® L-Theanine standardized to 98% L-Theanines. Great for both women and men.

SHOP

Many animal and test-tube studies have shown an increase in dopamine levels after supplementing with Ginseng. Ginseng may increase dopamine levels in humans, especially those with ADHD, but more research is needed.

A large double-blind, placebo-controlled trial conducted by the Mayo Clinic and published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that American Ginseng is useful for boosting cancer patients’ energy. Another study found evidence that American Ginseng improves working memory, choice reaction time accuracy, and mental calmness.

If you’ve been lacking motivation or the get-up-and-go to start a new exercise program, finish a creative project, or even just do more activities with the kids, SHINE Energy is for you. And if you’re already super active, the Energy formula just might give you that extra kick to take a workout to the next level. When you feel your best, you can be your best. SHINE Energy features a 5 year old Ginseng root grown exclusively in the fertile soil around Lake Erie in Ontario and is perfectly paired with a proprietary 98% pure neurotransmitter supporting AlphaWave ® L-Theanine.

2. SHINE Unstress®

SHINE Unstress natural supplement to support neurotransmitters

SHINE Unstress® is a Non-GMO, Vegan and Gluten-Free naturally-derived supplement to help reduce both mental and physical stress. Our proprietary blend of Shagandha® Ashwagandha and AlphaWave® L-Theanine includes plant extracts of the purest available standardized to 2.5% withanolides and 98% L-Theanines. Great for both women and men.

SHOP

In preclinical studies, ashwagandha can influence GABA and serotonin activity, which have antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.

Ashwagandha significantly reduced serum cortisol levels in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. (Remember, cortisol is the stress hormone.) In the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, the researchers wrote, “The findings of this study suggest that…Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual’s resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.”

We all react differently to stress, and our reaction can vary depending on the situation. SHINE Unstress is just as much for the mellower mushrooms out there as it is for the Type-A overachievers. When you boot stress from your path, you can see a clear route to reaching your next goal, whether that’s to secure a new job or just to regain control of your inbox. SHINE Unstress features a botanically verified Shagandha ® Ashwagandha which is perfectly paired with a proprietary 98% pure neurotransmitter supporting AlphaWave ® L-Theanine.

3. SHINE Memory®

SHINE Memory natural supplement to support neurotransmitters

SHINE Memory® is a Non-GMO, Vegan and Gluten-Free formulation to help support memory enhancement and brain function. A proprietary blend of one of the purest available Bacopin® Bacopa, standardized to 50% Bacosides A & B and AlphaWave® L-Theanine standardized to 98% L-Theanines. Great for both women and men.

SHOP

Bacopa also possesses anti-epileptic property as evidenced by reducing the dopamine levels of neurons in the frontal cortex region of the rat brain. These observations suggest that Brahmi may possess the property to alleviate the positive symptoms of schizophrenia.

In a randomized, double-blind study, 60 medical students were either given Bacopa or placebo twice daily for six weeks. Students in the Bacopa group exhibited cognitive enhancement in areas of working and logical memory, comprehension, and even the ability to ward off distractions.

Brain fog can crop up for any number of reasons, including chronic illness, fatigue, or side effects from medications. And sometimes we just go through periods where we don’t feel as astute. SHINE Memory is intended to help you perform at your sharpest. Ace your exam, nail your presentation, learn a new language, or just find it easier to remember what you need once you get to the grocery store. SHINE Memory features a highly purified form of the natural herb Bacopin ® Bacopa which is perfectly paired with a proprietary 98% pure neurotransmitter supporting AlphaWave ® L-Theanine.

4. SHINE Focus®

SHINE Focus natural supplement to support neurotransmitters

SHINE Focus® is a Non-GMO, Vegan and Gluten-Free nootropic that supports cognitive function such as mental focus and mental stamina. A proprietary blend of one of the purest available Rhodiola Rosea, standardized to 3% Rosavins and AlphaWave® L-Theanine standardized to 98% L-Theanines. Great for both women and men.

SHOP

In cell studies, Rhodiola extract directly activated four important neurotransmitters: norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine.

One study evaluated 101 people facing life and job stressors. Researchers found symptom improvement among participants within as little as three days (and continued improvement over four weeks) of treatment with 200 mg of Rhodiola extract. Plus, a clinical trial looked at stress-related burnout in 118 participants treated with 400 mg of Rhodiola extract daily. Researchers found a clear improvement among participants over the 12-week study. The herb is currently undergoing research as a potential treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults.

In the digital age, the world is full of disruptions. And the more fatigue or stress you feel when facing a task, the easier it is to fall prey to distractions—like social media feeds or even that pile of laundry eyeing you from the corner. If you crave better concentration for work, school, or just to read a good book, SHINE Focus is intended to help and features a highly purified form of the natural herb Rhodiola which is perfectly paired with a proprietary 98% pure neurotransmitter supporting AlphaWave ® L-Theanine.

5. SHINE Mood®

SHINE Mood natural supplement to support neurotransmitters

SHINE Mood® wild caught, Non-GMO, and Gluten-Free Omega-3 fish oil supports cognitive, brain and heart health. Our capsules are 25% smaller than leading brands while also featuring extra strength Natural Fatty Acids containing a high 2:1 ratio of EPA:DHA. Great for both women and men.

SHOP

Omega-3 fatty acids may also be beneficial in attenuating dopamine neurotransmission deficits by reducing inflammation and changes due to inflammation.

Research indicates that a deficiency in omega 3, or low-intake, may predispose certain individuals to depression and anxiety, and supplementation may offer neuroprotection.

SHINE Mood features 3rd party purity tested Omega-3 oils and a high EPA (400mg):DHA (200mg) ratio for medicinal benefits.

6. AlphaWave® L-Theanine

AlphaWave^® L-Theanine, Now Supported By Two Direct Clinical Studies to support acute stress and fatigue.

According to an article written in the National Library of Medicine, L-theanine increases levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and GABA.

Research using electroencephalograph (EEG) shows that L-Theanine increases alpha activity, heightening attention and focus while also having a relaxing effect on the mind. Another study indicated L-Theanine’s ability to reduce one’s stress response when faced with a challenging brain task.

The following 4 SHINE products contains a proprietary 98% pure neurotransmitter supporting AlphaWave® L-Theanine: SHINE Energy, SHINE Unstress, SHINE Memory, and SHINE Focus.

About SHINE Health

Our mission is based on our founding story to pass on the lessons we have learned in our own mental health recovery and offer you the very best natural ingredients the earth has to offer - to help you pursue your passions and truly SHINE!

Take our free quiz to find the right supplement for you.