Healing ADD: The Breakthrough Program that Allows You to See and Heal the 7 Types of ADD

by Daniel G. Amen

due to deficiencies of the neurotransmitter dopamine. I frequently prescribe the amino acid L-tyrosine in doses of 500 to 1500 milligrams two to three times a day for adults and 100 to 500 milligrams two to three times a day for children under 10. L-tyrosine is the amino acid building block for dopamine. It is reported to increase the level of phenylethylamine (PEA), a mild stimulant that is found in higher concentrations in chocolate. Many of my patients have reported that it is helpful for them. It is softer in its effect, but nonetheless they notice a positive effect. Because of absorption patterns, I recommend that they take it on an empty stomach (a half hour before meals or an hour after meals). I have not seen any side effects with L-tyrosine, except for mild weight loss. L-tyrosine does not work well by itself in treating Type 3 (Overfocused) ADD because it tends to increase the intensity of overfocused symptoms. Symptoms of tyrosine deficiency—which leads to low dopamine levels—include hypothyroidism, low blood pressure, low body temperature (cold hands and feet), and restless