Whether you're a student cramming for finals, an employee on a project deadline, or your mind just isn't as clear as it once was, you might wish there was a magic pill you could take that would supercharge your brain and make everything a little easier.
Nootropics aren't magic pills, and they won't supercharge your brain, but they do have the potential to improve your cognitive functioning under the right circumstances.
Here's more about nootropics as well as specific types that have been proven to provide some level of cognitive enhancement.
Nootropics are colloquially called "smart drugs" or "cognitive enhancers" due to the fact that they might theoretically boost brain function especially regarding energy, focus, and memory.
Natural nootropics may also increase blood circulation and oxygen flow to the brain, according to a 2016 study. This is beneficial for brain health, since the brain depends on a continuous supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly.
But nootropics likely won't provide you much benefit if you're not already experiencing symptoms such as trouble focusing or poor memory, says David A. Merrill, MD, a psychiatrist and director of the Pacific Neuroscience Institute's Pacific Brain Health Center at Providence Saint John's Health Center.
There are a number of factors that can affect your cognitive performance such as your sleep, stress levels, diet, and exercise regimen. You should try to improve these factors rather than simply relying on nootropics, as this will be much more beneficial in the long run, Merrill says.
There are various natural, over-the-counter, nootropics to choose from that are available in supplement form. You can usually find them at your local grocery or online. Here are five common nootropics as well as how they work.
Caffeine in the form of coffee, tea, energy drinks, supplements, and more is the most commonly used nootropic worldwide.
It works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain that make you feel tired. That's why caffeine often makes people feel less tired and more alert and focused.
However, Merrill notes that there are two problems with caffeine. First, if you consume it often, you will become tolerant to it, meaning that you will require more and more caffeine to feel a boost. Secondly, if you overdo your caffeine consumption, it can lead to side effects like anxiety, insomnia, and tremors.
Ginkgo biloba is a plant, and you can find its extract in supplement form. Merrill says ginkgo biloba extract works by increasing blood flow to the brain, or cerebral blood flow. In theory, this can be beneficial because it prevents decreased cerebral blood flow, which can result in cognitive decline.
Much of the research surrounding ginkgo biloba is in regards to Alzheimer's. For example, a 2020 review of 28 studies found that taking 240 milligrams of ginkgo biloba daily had a positive impact on cognitive function including reaction time and memory in adults with mild Alzheimer's.
However, if you're not already suffering from cognitive decline, Merrill says you may not experience any kind of boost from ginkgo biloba.
L-theanine is found naturally in green tea and black tea, but it can also be taken as a supplement. Merrill says it tends to have a calming, relaxing effect while also boosting alertnesswhich is why it's categorized as a nootropic.
L-theanine works by boosting serotonin, dopamine, and GABA levels. GABA are neurotransmitters that play a part in mood and stress regulation.
A 2019 study found that participants who took 200 milligrams of L-theanine tablets for four weeks experienced reduced stress and improved executive functioning.
"Omega-3 fatty acids are the building blocks of brain cell membranes, increasing cell membrane fluidity, which is important for the functioning of each brain cell," says Merrill.
A 2012 analysis showed that adults with a mild form of cognitive impairment who took omega-3 supplements saw an improvement in cognitive function.
But while some research has been promising, other studies found that omega-3s had no effect on cognition for a sample of healthy adults aged 18-35. Therefore, omega-3 supplements may be most beneficial for people who are already experiencing some form of cognitive decline.
Creatine is an amino acid that may benefit cognitive function due to the way it interacts with brain cells.
"Brain cells require high amounts of energy to function, and creatine can help brain cells continue to produce the energy needed to think," says Merrill.
A 2018 systematic review found that taking creatine supplements can improve short-term memory in healthy individuals.
Those who have a condition that severely impairs their cognitive function may benefit from more potent, prescription nootropics. Here are two common prescription nootropics and how they work.
Adderall is a prescription drug commonly prescribed to people with ADHD but it may also be prescribed for narcolepsy. Merrill says Adderall is a stimulant that works by increasing your levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals can improve your focus and concentration.
Additionally, Adderall has been shown to boost alertness, energy levels, and attention span in people with ADHD or narcolepsy.
"There appears to be a ceiling effect with stimulants like Adderall, so they can reduce attention deficits, but they won't make individuals with already normal levels of attention super-smart," says Merrill.
Modafinil is a prescription drug that promotes wakefulness, and it's prescribed to people who have narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, or shift work sleep disorder.
The way modafinil works is mostly to increase dopamine levels. These increased dopamine levels may help concentration, memory, and motivation,, says Merrill.
A 2020 study found that modafinil improves cognitive function in healthy adults, such as improving working memory and accuracy when completing tasks. However, it is not usually prescribed to people who don't have a sleep disorder.
There are many nootropics to choose from if you're looking to boost your cognitive function. However, it's important to be realistic and remember that you will likely not experience drastic changes, if any changes at all if you're otherwise healthy. Always consult your doctor before taking any supplements such as these nootropics.
Here is the original post:
- Brain Center - Research News and brain Supplement Reviews - December 12th, 2016 [December 12th, 2016]
- Buy Noopept Powder | View Noopept Reviews and Benefits - December 14th, 2016 [December 14th, 2016]
- Racetam - Wikipedia - December 15th, 2016 [December 15th, 2016]
- Nootropics from Nature - niume.com - December 17th, 2016 [December 17th, 2016]
- Nootrobox - Official Site - December 18th, 2016 [December 18th, 2016]
- What Are Nootropics? A Guide to Nootropic Supplements - December 26th, 2016 [December 26th, 2016]
- Nootropic Supplements [Smart Drugs] Simple Nootropics Guide - December 27th, 2016 [December 27th, 2016]
- 13 Nootropics to Unlock Your True Brain - blog.bulletproof.com - January 3rd, 2017 [January 3rd, 2017]
- Nootropics | The Biohacker Guide by Nootrobox - January 3rd, 2017 [January 3rd, 2017]
- About Us - Nootropics.com - January 17th, 2017 [January 17th, 2017]
- Silicon Valley's 'nootropic' smart drugs a big business - Daily Sabah - February 7th, 2017 [February 7th, 2017]
- How to target a niche market at a small business - Telegraph.co.uk - February 8th, 2017 [February 8th, 2017]
- Global Nootropics Market has been expected to grow at CAGR 17.9% CAGR during 2016-2024- Credence Research - PDF Devices - February 14th, 2017 [February 14th, 2017]
- Onnit Earth Grown Nutrients All-In-One Daily Greens Mix Review - BarBend (blog) - February 15th, 2017 [February 15th, 2017]
- Need Some Energy Or Some Better Sleep? The Mad Scientists at Nootrobox Can Help - Magnetic Magazine (blog) - February 16th, 2017 [February 16th, 2017]
- Elevacity Introduces Smart Coffee: "Elevate" - Press Release ... - Digital Journal - February 18th, 2017 [February 18th, 2017]
- Elevacity Introduces Smart Coffee: Elevate - Satellite PR News (press release) - February 20th, 2017 [February 20th, 2017]
- The Nootropics Guy | Testing and Reviewing Nootropics - February 20th, 2017 [February 20th, 2017]
- NEU Brings Nootropics to Energy Shots - BevNET.com - February 21st, 2017 [February 21st, 2017]
- Nootropedia Launches Flagship Brain Conference | Benzinga - Benzinga - March 3rd, 2017 [March 3rd, 2017]
- Le-Vel's new premium nootropic capsule designed to support, optimize mental capabilities - Yahoo Finance - March 7th, 2017 [March 7th, 2017]
- Hacking the Human Body with the CEO of Nootrobox - Paste Magazine - March 7th, 2017 [March 7th, 2017]
- Why Would People Without Diabetes Monitor Their Blood Sugar? - A Sweet Life - March 8th, 2017 [March 8th, 2017]
- Sharp & Energized! IMPRESS! Dietary Supplement for Men Unleashes Nootropic Power of Cereboost from Naturex - Digital Journal - April 8th, 2017 [April 8th, 2017]
- Take a Chill Pill (How to Relax in the Modern Age) - Huffington Post - April 8th, 2017 [April 8th, 2017]
- Brief Guide To Nootropic Supplements - Serie A Weekly - June 6th, 2017 [June 6th, 2017]
- Best Nootropics Smart Pills - Serie A Weekly - June 6th, 2017 [June 6th, 2017]
- How Do Various Nootropics Work? - Serie A Weekly - June 6th, 2017 [June 6th, 2017]
- Information On Nootropics - Serie A Weekly - June 12th, 2017 [June 12th, 2017]
- Best Nootropics for Sale in 2017 | Reviews and Comparison - June 20th, 2017 [June 20th, 2017]
- Nootropics Market Is Predicted To Hit USD 6059.4 Mn By 2024, Expanding At A CAGR Of 17.9% From 2016 To 2024. - Technorati - June 23rd, 2017 [June 23rd, 2017]
- The Ultimate Guide To Nootropics | Supplement Critique - June 23rd, 2017 [June 23rd, 2017]
- Medical Q&A: So-called smart drugs can turn out to be a dumb idea - Sarasota Herald-Tribune - June 27th, 2017 [June 27th, 2017]
- Duke Neuroscientist: Brain Augmentation Will Allow Us to Make a New Kind of Human - Futurism - July 3rd, 2017 [July 3rd, 2017]
- Nootrobox is now HVMN and will sell biohacking products beyond nootropics - TechCrunch - July 3rd, 2017 [July 3rd, 2017]
- The Top 5 Nootropic Supplements of 2017 Health Ranks - July 4th, 2017 [July 4th, 2017]
- NITROvit 2017 - Brain Enhancement Memory and Focus Pills - July 5th, 2017 [July 5th, 2017]
- Buying a boost: Smart drugs on campus - Emerald Media - Oregon Daily Emerald - July 15th, 2017 [July 15th, 2017]
- NETCENTS Integrates Top Tier Merchants Within the Nutraceutical Sector - Canada NewsWire (press release) - July 20th, 2017 [July 20th, 2017]
- Every Entrepreneur Needs Flow. Nootropics Can Get You There. - Entrepreneur - July 20th, 2017 [July 20th, 2017]
- Nootropics | Our Favorite Nootropics Supplements - July 20th, 2017 [July 20th, 2017]
- True Focus Review (UPDATED 2017): Don't Buy Before You Read This! - Diets In Review (blog) - July 26th, 2017 [July 26th, 2017]
- Nootropics: How Smart Can You Get on Smart Drugs? - Brain Blogger (blog) - July 26th, 2017 [July 26th, 2017]
- Is Qualia Revolutionary or Just Another Nootropic? - HuffPost - August 1st, 2017 [August 1st, 2017]
- New study into 'smart drugs' in the finance industry - Investment Magazine - August 4th, 2017 [August 4th, 2017]
- Pimp my Brain: The Quest for Intelligence - TG Daily (blog) - August 4th, 2017 [August 4th, 2017]
- Nootropic Effects of Psychedelic and Addictive Substances - Brain Blogger (blog) - August 4th, 2017 [August 4th, 2017]
- Smart drugs in financial services: A growing trend? - Professional Planner - August 7th, 2017 [August 7th, 2017]
- Labdoor Special Report: We Tested the Infowars Supplements - Markets Insider - August 11th, 2017 [August 11th, 2017]
- Could new dietary supplements boost brain power? - WNDU-TV - August 12th, 2017 [August 12th, 2017]
- NootroNerd Website Offers Comprehensive Articles About Nootropics and Cognitive Enhancement Methods - Digital Journal - August 25th, 2017 [August 25th, 2017]
- 4 Biohacking Facts You Should Know About in 2017 - Techzone360 - August 25th, 2017 [August 25th, 2017]
- Best Supplements For Your Brain: 4 Nootropics That Work Like ... - February 11th, 2018 [February 11th, 2018]
- Best Supplements For Your Brain: 4 Nootropics That Work ... - February 23rd, 2018 [February 23rd, 2018]
- nootropics / smart drugs - March 26th, 2018 [March 26th, 2018]
- NootropicsDepot - Official Site - April 3rd, 2018 [April 3rd, 2018]
- Modafy Brain Stack | Accelerated Nootropics Formula - April 29th, 2018 [April 29th, 2018]
- Noopept | Smarter Nootropics - July 6th, 2018 [July 6th, 2018]
- About - Pure Nootropics - August 19th, 2018 [August 19th, 2018]
- Buy Bulk Nootropics Online at SmartPowders.com - August 19th, 2018 [August 19th, 2018]
- Nootropics Supply | Smart Drugs & Racetams - September 6th, 2018 [September 6th, 2018]
- Ranking the best nootropics of 2018 - BodyNutrition - September 16th, 2018 [September 16th, 2018]
- What are Nootropics? - Smart Drug Smarts | Fuel Your ... - September 17th, 2018 [September 17th, 2018]
- Lithium Orotate Nootropics Expert - October 9th, 2018 [October 9th, 2018]
- Thrive Naturals Super Brain Renew Review | Brain Supplement ... - October 12th, 2018 [October 12th, 2018]
- Pure Nootropics Review - Are They Reliable? - November 3rd, 2018 [November 3rd, 2018]
- Buy the Best Nootropics in Europe - Mind Nutrition Research - November 3rd, 2018 [November 3rd, 2018]
- Nootropics: Cognitive Brain Enhancers to get Focused - November 3rd, 2018 [November 3rd, 2018]
- Top Nootropics 2018 (200% Increased Productivity) - November 3rd, 2018 [November 3rd, 2018]
- Nootropics & Smart Drug Reviews - November 3rd, 2018 [November 3rd, 2018]
- Nootroo - The Gold Standard In Nootropics - November 8th, 2018 [November 8th, 2018]
- The Complete Introduction To Nootropics, From Beginner To ... - December 11th, 2018 [December 11th, 2018]
- Best Nootropics 2018 (Updated) Nootropics Expert - January 16th, 2019 [January 16th, 2019]
- The Big List of Nootropics | Braintropic - April 6th, 2019 [April 6th, 2019]
- The Complete Introduction To Nootropics, From Beginner To Expert - April 6th, 2019 [April 6th, 2019]
- Nootropics r/Nootropics - reddit - April 6th, 2019 [April 6th, 2019]
- What are "Nootropics"? - Smart Drug Smarts - April 20th, 2019 [April 20th, 2019]
- Best Nootropics 2019 (Updated from 2018) Nootropics Expert - April 29th, 2019 [April 29th, 2019]
- What are Nootropics? | Braintropic - June 3rd, 2019 [June 3rd, 2019]
- Best Nootropics (Smart Drugs) to Unlock Your True Brain - June 3rd, 2019 [June 3rd, 2019]