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Dopamine: A chemical in the brain associated with mood enhancing effects;
responsible for feelings associated with sexual pleasure, confidence and
euphoria.
"Brain chemicals, including dopamine, play
a role in the biological drama
known as romantic love. They contribute to the giddy, almost-irrational
feelings of attraction that dominate the lives of people who are 'head
over
heels in love."
Michael Woods, science editor at The Blade
"Brain chemicals, including dopamine, may also play a key role in
binding
together couples in romances that endure for years or decades. Being in
the
presence of a spouse or other long-term partner stimulates manufacture
of
brain chemicals that create a sense of well -being. As natural
pain-killers, these chemicals may reinforce long-term romances in another
way - by easing aches, pains, and other physical distress."
Michael Woods, science editor at The Blade
Elevation of dopamine levels often leads to an improvement in mood,
alertness, and sex drive, and perhaps even an enhancement in verbal fluency
and creativity.
Mind
Boosters: A Guide to Natural Supplements That Enhance Your Mind, Memory,
and Mood
by Ray
Sahelian, MD
"Studies show that gushy romantic sensations may
be similar to the highs
drug addicts feel when they're under the influence.There are striking
parallels to the behaviors of drug addicts and people in love."
Nora Volkow, the associate director for life sciences
at Brookhaven
National Laboratory in New York
Cocaine, opiates and alcohol produce rewarding effects in part due to
their
abilities to promote the release of dopamine.
Department of Psychology, California State
University, Chico
A chemical messenger, dopamine is similar to adrenaline, also affecting
brain processes that control movement, emotional response and ability
to
experience pleasure and pain.
College of Pharmacy, University of Texas
Have you ever wondered why smokers have to light-one-up immediately after
sex? Smoking appears to release dopamine into the brain so they get a
double
shot of it by having an orgasm and lighting up afterward. This may be
one of
the main reasons "kicking the habit" is so difficult.
Smart
Eats, Smart Supplements, and Smart Exercise
by Dusty R. Green, M.Ed.
With these thought provoking facts, the movie Dopamine explores the issues
of attraction, lust and love or are they all the same?
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