Neuroenhancement – The Supplements To Look For And What To Avoid
Neuroenhancement has become one of the hottest new supplement categories. Most likely born from the cognitive enhancers found in many pre-workouts, nootropics have broadened to go beyond pre-training supplementation. This edition of Supplement Spotlight will focus on nootropics in general and the most common nootropic ingredients in particular. Let’s check it out!
What Is Neuroenhancement?
Neuro enhancement refers to the use of supplements, including those that contain caffeine (energy drinks and pre-workouts) to enhance cognitive function, mood, and school or work performance. It may also include commonly available OTC drugs. (1, 2)
Common Neuroenhancing Ingredients
Here’s a list of the most common neuroenhancers. (3)
Alpha-GPC
At 40% choline by weight, Alpha-GPC is one of the better forms of choline. It supports increased acetylcholine levels, especially in the brain’s frontal cortex, which is where attention span and motor function processes take place. Plus, acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter with a key role in neuroenhancement, enhanced attention, and memory.
Bacopa Monnieri
This is an Ayurvedic herb with a long history of use, primarily as a neuroenhancer. It’s also an adaptogen. Bacopa Monnieri contains active ingredients known as bacosides, which are saponins that support neurotransmitter regulation. Bacopa supports overall cognitive function, possesses adaptogenic benefits, and helps the body deal with physical, emotional, and mental stress.
Caffeine
There’s no doubt that caffeine is a powerful CNS stimulant that increases energy, focus, and alertness. It works by stimulating adenosine receptors and preventing them from making you feel like you’re tired. Caffeine also stimulates thermogenesis and helps improve performance.
CDP-Choline
This ingredient helps improve memory, enhance reaction time, increase focus, and improve clarity. If you have ever experienced “brain fog”, you’ll want to try this ingredient.
Choline Bitartrate
This is one of the more common forms of choline, and you can find it in a lot of supplements. Choline is a precursor to acetylcholine, which is commonly called the “learning neurotransmitter”. Additionally, it’s known as a focus enhancer.
Huperzine A
Here is another popular neuroenhancing ingredient. It improves focus and memory. Plus, it can help prevent oxidative damage to the brain. Finally, it is a popular ingredient in pre-workouts.
Lion’s Mane
Lion’s Mane is an edible mushroom with a centuries-old history of use in traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine. The active compounds in this potent mushroom are called beta-glucans, erinacines, erinacea lactones, glycoproteins, and hericerins. They are responsible for the benefits of Lion’s Mane, which include improved cognitive function, better memory, and enhanced nerve regeneration.
L-Tyrosine
Here is a very common neuroenhancer that is in most pre-workouts and pure neuroenhancement formulas. L-tyrosine is an amino acid known for its mood and focus benefits. In addition, tyrosine might help relieve stress. Tyrosine is often used with the different forms of Choline; this is one of the most common complexes currently used.
Phosphatidylserine
This is an ingredient often used for memory and learning. It’s also a popular cortisol blocker. Cortisol, for those who may not know, is a catabolic hormone that is released in response to all types of stress. Excess cortisol release is not good for bodybuilders and other athletes. Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid cortisol’s negative effects. First, you should stay in an anabolic state by using proper protein intake and timing. Second, use Phosphatidylserine. Third, use an intra-workout. Finally, have a post-workout shake as soon as you finish your workout.
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola is an adaptogen, which helps the body deal with mental and physical stress. The active ingredients in Rhodiola are called rosavins and salidrosides. These are responsible for Rhodiola’s benefits. Besides the adaptogenic benefits, Rhodiola elevates mood elevation and promotes overall neuroenhancement. Finally, it maintains the integrity of neurotransmitters adrenaline and dopamine.
Vinpocetine
This ingredient supports improved blood flow which improves nutrient and oxygen delivery to the brain. It is important to understand that the brain uses 20% of the blood flow of the body. Plus, Vinpocetine acts as a neuroprotectant. Finally, it supports memory and overall cognitive function.
Ingredients To Avoid
It should go without saying that all OTC drugs, alcohol, prescription drugs (such as benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and antipsychotics), and illegal drugs should be avoided. Avoid using prescribed stimulants, such as Adderall, for any purposes other than what it was prescribed for, and only use under the direct supervision of a medical professional. Caffeine and other natural stimulants should be used with caution. In other words, don’t take high doses without determining your tolerance first. It’s always best practice to use only quality supplements from a reputable company sold by a reputable site.
Summary
To sum up, there’s no doubt neuroenhancers can be an exciting supplemental approach for those who want ultimate mental performance. Avoid anything not supplement-related, and go the route of the proven ingredients as listed above. Stop by illpumpyouup.com and check out some of our formulas, such as Ambrosia Collective Mental Jewels.
References:
- Marazziti, D., Avella, M. T., Ivaldi, T., Palermo, S., Massa, L., Vecchia, A. D., Basile, L., & Mucci, F. (2021). Neuroenhancement: State of the Art and Future Perspectives. Clinical neuropsychiatry, 18(3), 137–169. https://doi.org/10.36131/cnfioritieditore20210303
- Fekete, M., Lehoczki, A., Tarantini, S., Fazekas-Pongor, V., Csípő, T., Csizmadia, Z., & Varga, J. T. (2023). Improving Cognitive Function with Nutritional Supplements in Aging: A Comprehensive Narrative Review of Clinical Studies Investigating the Effects of Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants, and Other Dietary Supplements. Nutrients, 15(24), 5116. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15245116
- the-encyclopedia-of-nootropics.pdf (braintropic.com)