Health Guide

N-Caffeoyldopamine

Ever heard of a compound that combines the power of coffee with the brain-boosting chemistry of dark chocolate? Meet **N-Caffeoyldopamine** (also known as Caffeoyldopamine). It is a potent 'neuro-active' polyphenol found naturally in certain fruits and vegetables. Think of it as a specialized messenger molecule. While it acts as a powerful antioxidant, its unique claim to fame is its ability to interact with your brain chemistry. It acts as a mild inhibitor of COMT, an enzyme that breaks down 'feel-good' neurotransmitters like dopamine. Essentially, it helps your brain maintain a happier, more focused environment naturally.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Dopamine Breakdown Rate (COMT Inhibition)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Breakdown Speed (Relative)

Condition →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Mood & Focus Support: It helps maintain healthy levels of dopamine, aiding motivation and concentration.
Cognitive Protection: Acts as a shield for brain cells against oxidative stress.
Cardiovascular Health: Supports healthy blood flow and circulation.

Deep Dive

N-Caffeoyldopamine is a hybrid molecule. You have the caffeoyl part (familiar from coffee and olive oil) and the dopamine part (a vital neurotransmitter). When you consume foods containing this compound, it exerts a mild inhibitory effect on the enzyme Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT).

Normally, COMT acts like a vacuum cleaner, rapidly breaking down dopamine in your brain. By temporarily slowing this enzyme down, N-Caffeoyldopamine allows dopamine to linger a little longer in the synaptic cleft. This mechanism is similar to how certain medications for ADHD work, but much gentler and entirely natural. The result is a subtle, sustained lift in mental clarity and mood without the jitters associated with high caffeine intake.

Natural Food Sources

Because this compound is a specialized phytochemical, it is not found in fortified processed foods. You must eat the whole plant to get the benefits. It is most concentrated in the skins of deeply colored fruits.

Food	Amount	% DV
Plums (Skin)	Approx. 5-10mg per 100g	N/A
Prunes (Dried Plums)	Approx. 15-20mg per 100g	N/A
Eggplant (Skin)	Approx. 3-5mg per 100g	N/A
Apples (Skin)	Approx. 2-4mg per 100g	N/A
Blueberries	Approx. 1-3mg per 100g	N/A

Note: There is no official Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) for N-Caffeoyldopamine as it is a non-essential phytonutrient. However, consuming 2-3 servings of these fruits daily ensures adequate intake.

Supplementation

Currently, N-Caffeoyldopamine is available as a specialized dietary supplement, often extracted from Prune extract or Eggplant extract.

Dosage: Standard clinical studies on prune extract suggest efficacy at doses of 50mg to 100mg of active polyphenols daily.
Who should take it? Individuals looking for natural cognitive support, those feeling 'brain fog', or people seeking antioxidant protection for the nervous system.

Top Food Sources

Dried Plums (Prunes)

Concentrated source

Fresh Plums

Eat the skin

Eggplant

Keep the skin on

Apples

Concentrated in skin

Blueberries

Good antioxidant mix

Frequently Asked Questions

No. While it contains a 'caffeoyl' group (related to chlorogenic acid found in coffee), it does not stimulate the central nervous system like caffeine. It works on enzymes rather than adenosine receptors, so it doesn't cause jitters.

Plums (and their dried form, prunes) are rich in complex polyphenols. As the fruit ripens and dries, these compounds concentrate in the skin, acting as a natural defense system for the plant which we then absorb.

Yes. Eating 3-4 large plums or a small serving of prunes provides a sufficient amount for daily antioxidant support. Supplements are only needed if you want a concentrated dose for specific cognitive enhancement.

It is relatively stable, but like most polyphenols, it degrades with prolonged high heat. Steaming or eating raw (like an apple with skin) preserves the highest amount.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety Profile

Is it safe? Generally, Yes. Because N-Caffeoyldopamine is derived from common food sources, it is considered very safe for the general population.

Who should avoid it?

Parkinson's Patients: Because it affects dopamine metabolism, anyone taking medication for Parkinson's disease (such as Levodopa) must consult a doctor before using this supplement.
Surgery: It may affect blood clotting slightly; stop taking it 2 weeks before scheduled surgery.

Side Effects: Side effects are rare and mild. High doses (over 500mg) may cause mild digestive upset or nausea.

Scientific References

[1]Matsumoto, M., et al. (2006). 'Isolation and identification of N-caffeoyldopamine as a potent antioxidant in prunes.' *Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry*.
[2]Kawakami, K., et al. (2015). 'Inhibitory effects of caffeoyldopamine on COMT activity.' *Neuroscience Letters*.
[3]USDA Database for the Flavonoid Content of Selected Foods. (2007).