What is the 'Feel Good Hormone'?

Dopamine is often referred to as the ‘feel good hormone’. It is both a hormone and a neurotransmitter that regulates a range of things in the body, including learning, memory, mood, attention, and sleep.

Dopamine is also involved in feelings of pleasure and motivation. It gets released when we experience something positive or happy, and it’s what helps keep us motivated to continue engaging in pleasurable behaviors.

Too much or too little dopamine can be a problem.  Low dopamine levels are associated with poor sleep quality, sadness and depression.  Excess levels of dopamine may play a role in addiction and obesity.  As with many aspects of overall well-being, eating nutritious, well-balanced meals and getting quality sleep can help support optimal dopamine levels.