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Leverage Dopamine to Overcome Procrastination & Optimize Effort

Huberman Lab

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How to Avoid Dopamine Peaks

To avoid dopamine peaks, it is recommended to start with a low dose of L-tyrosine, such as 250 to 500 milligrams, depending on body weight. Taking L-tyrosine 30 to 60 minutes before cognitive or physical tasks can increase baseline dopamine levels and improve performance. It is important to note that the increase in dopamine levels can be substantial and long-lasting. However, it is cautioned to avoid excessively high dosages, as used in some studies. Higher doses, such as 10,000 milligrams, can lead to potential negative effects. It is also advised to be mindful of any crashes or troughs in dopamine levels after experiencing a peak. Engaging in proper behaviors and avoiding substances that cause sharp dopamine peaks is recommended. If a trough does occur, it is important to wait for the baseline dopamine level to naturally resolve, rather than seeking out intense experiences or combining dopamine-increasing behaviors.

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