Are You Studying for an Exam, Seeking Promotion or Concerned about Dementia? – the allure of taking a pill that enhances cognitive performance can be irresistible!
Nootropics (commonly referred to as cognitive enhancers or smart drugs) have become increasingly popular. These supplements increase mental capacity by increasing neurotransmitter availability and stimulating neurons.
1. Ginseng
Ginseng is an effective natural nootropic that can help mitigate brain fog, increase creativity and extend energy levels so you can work without getting fatigued. Furthermore, its oxygenating benefits help increase focus and concentration for a more focused mind.
Ginseng (Panax ginseng) contains compounds called ginsenosides that have been proven to improve mental health; however, more clinical research needs to be completed before any definitive conclusions can be drawn.
2. L-Theanine
L-Theanine can be found to enhance alpha brain waves and induce calm alertness that supports focus. Furthermore, L-theanine has also been found to decrease levels of cortisol stress hormone production.
This amino acid can be found in tea leaves (Camellia sinensis) or bay bolete mushrooms (Xerocomus badius), with one study finding that taking one dose of l-theanine reduced reaction time on an attention task and increased correct answers while decreasing errors and omission errors.
3. Bacopa Monnieri
Bacopa monnieri (brahmi), is an Ayurvedic herb recognized for its memory-enhancing abilities and stress and anxiety reduction properties.
This herbal ingredient works in tandem with other cognitive enhancers such as phosphatidylserine and lion’s mane mushroom to improve focus and concentration, making our formulas Cognizin and Elevated Adaptogens effective tools for increasing focus and concentration.
Bacopa contains cholinergic properties, so it could interact with medications that increase acetylcholine.
4. Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba has made headlines due to its potential ability to help combat Alzheimer’s and dementia. Studies have also indicated that it helps sharpen focus and thinking abilities by increasing neurotransmitters levels in the brain.
Goji berries are packed with antioxidants, helping protect both your mind and body against damage caused by free radicals. Goji has also been proven effective at treating conditions like tinnitus, dementia and memory loss associated with age.
5. Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine is an essential nutrient and has been shown in studies to enhance mental clarity, memory retention and mood while simultaneously decreasing anxiety, depression and stress levels.
PS supplements contain powerful brain repair properties and neuroprotective qualities, making them suitable for all age groups. Be wary of products derived from animals as these may spread illnesses like mad cow disease.
6. Creatine Monohydrate
Creatine Monohydrate is an increasingly popular, clinically effective, and safe performance enhancing dietary supplement that has been found to increase high intensity exercise capacity while simultaneously improving activity outcomes in specific sports.
Helps prevent memory loss while strengthening focus and thinking abilities, increasing neurotransmitter levels to promote information processing and analysis, and is recommended in dosages between 200-250 milligrams for best results.
7. Vinpocetine
Vinpocetine has been shown to reduce ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and enhance memory, potentially helping prevent some forms of dementia.
Vinpocetine is a semisynthetic chemical derived from vincamine, an alkaloid found in lesser periwinkle plants. In Europe, vinpocetine is widely prescribed to treat cerebrovascular conditions and cognitive disorders; while in America it’s typically sold as a dietary supplement.
8. L-Dopamine
L-Dopa is a metabolic precursor for dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters that can cross the blood-brain barrier, making it a popular medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease as well as to increase concentration and attention spans among healthy individuals. Although predominantly prescribed to treat Parkinson’s, its benefits extend far beyond this condition alone.
Cognitive enhancement techniques present many ethical considerations. Medical associations and institutions must establish clear policies regarding how best to approach them – something which may prove challenging.
9. L-Arginine
L-Arginine provides the nitrogen source for nitric oxide production, an essential cellular process. Nitric oxide has a vasodilatory effect that dilates blood vessels.
Arginine increases production of glutathione, one of the body’s primary antioxidants. Furthermore, it helps facilitate protein synthesis.
Studies have demonstrated its ability to increase HGH levels, aiding muscle growth. It may also improve focus and concentration.
10. L-Tyrosine
L-Tyrosine is an amino acid produced in the body from phenylalanine that plays a critical role in producing dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine for brain function. [R] Studies have also shown this amino acid can prevent cognitive decline during physical stress while simultaneously improving working memory performance.
As well as helping improve alertness after sleep deprivation, taking this supplement prior to exercise has also shown to increase endurance during physical activities.