Nootropics are the new trend in schools. These “brain supplements” are becoming more and more popular among students cramming for exams. Because more awareness is being brought about the negative effects of “study pills” such as Adderall and Ritalin, students tend to switch to more natural alternatives. Nootropics can also be made from drugs so it is imperative that you research the ingredients of a product before buying it. We have made a short list of the main natural ingredients that you should look for in a brain supplement.
Nootropics are simply a great way to improve your mental performances and increase your productivity. Here are some of the natural components you should look for when buying smart supplements:
Caffeine – The number one reason why people drink coffee is because of the caffeine content and the boost of energy it provides. It can also be found in soda, which we know to be very unhealthy. It may keep you active but it may also increase your blood sugar considerably. Although it may seem like a better idea to drink coffee, this famous beverage also comes with side effects and long-term health risks. Coffee has loads of benefits including reducing the risk of deadly diseases such as Alzheimer’s but it can also lead to a higher risk of heart disease. So if you love coffee, consume it with moderation. We suggest getting natural caffeine supplements instead. The moment you ingest caffeine, you will immediately feel more focused on your task. Of course, it is to be taken at the right time. Avoid consuming caffeine supplements or products close to bedtime as it might keep you up and disturb the quality of your sleep. In the morning with a light meal or during lunch is always a good time to take caffeine. It will even speed up your metabolism, which in turn would promote weight management.
Water Hyssop – For those who always forget things, this will help a lot because it is meant to enhance your memory and your ability to retain information. If you are the type of person who can’t count the number of times you’ve lost your phone, forgot your keys or can’t remember a lot of things, this is the perfect supplement for you. In fact, this supplement is so popular that a lot of people take it every day. It is actually common for senior citizens to take it because they lose focus as father time has caught up with them.
Uridine – Uridine is known in many countries because of how effective it is. It is widely use to improve cognitive functions and memory. It’s a natural component that is already present in the human body. Uridine may also be great to protect the overall health of your brain.
Creatine – The body already produces Creatine. It is a substance that helps in making the body recover faster. Athletes have been using creatine for a long time because it improves muscles energy and health. It is sometimes found in workout supplements to boost ones physical performances. Creatine is also used by people looking to increase their brain performances, as it promotes cells production and overall cognitive health. You can take creatine by itself (be careful of the dosage, check with your doctor first) or it can be found as an ingredient in a nootropic supplement.
Alpha Lipoic Acid – Alpha Lipoic Acid is generally used to treat diabetes related symptoms. It helps reduce the numbness that diabetics tend to experience. It improves the body's ability to use its own insulin to lower blood sugar and also prevents nerve damage. The fact that it improves nerve function has led to better recalling capacities. Tests on patients with mild Alzheimer disease have shown an improvement on memory.
Theanine – Theanine or L-Theanine is commonly consumed because of its numerous properties. First, it enhances the effects of caffeine and counteracts the eventual side effects of it (jitters, stomach cramps…). Theanine also helps reduce stress and anxiety and promotes calm and comfort. It offers relaxation without drowsiness and it can be found in both green tea and black tea. Full of antioxidants, Theanine also promotes healthy brain cells and overall brain functions.