Dopamine's role extends beyond seeking pleasure to embracing the pleasure found in the pursuit itself. The combination of motivation, adrenaline, and noradrenaline enhances alertness and motivation, forming a trio that drives performance. Smelling salts may have a dopaminergic effect, contributing to this heightened state. For cognitive enhancement, 600 mg of alpha-GPC can increase alertness without necessarily needing extensive scientific validation. It’s regarded as a safer option compared to prescription stimulants. Additionally, theanine complements stimulants by reducing jitteriness, making it a common additive in energy drinks. Other notable substances include L-tyrosine, a dopamine precursor, and Modafinil, originally for narcolepsy but with proven cognitive benefits, especially for sleep-deprived individuals. These substances reflect a spectrum of options for enhancing focus and alertness, highlighting the importance of individual preferences and safety considerations.
Andrew Huberman, PhD, is a neuroscientist and tenured professor at Stanford University’s School of Medicine. Andrew is also the host of the Huberman Lab podcast, which aims to help viewers and listeners improve their health with science and science-based tools. New episodes air every Monday on YouTube and all podcast platforms.
www.hubermanlab.com
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