In our fast-paced world, it is difficult to stay focused and keep on top of all that life demands. Work, school, family, bills, meal plans--the list goes on. Accomplishing it all seems impossible, especially when your attention is split, and your mind is exhausted. If you are feeling overwhelmed and mentally worn down, consider taking a nootropic supplement.
Nootropic supplements are used to enhance cognitive function (1). They can help improve memory and focus, increase energy and creativity, or support overall mental health. Nootropics have been shown to help those with declining brain conditions as well as those who simply need a little boost during the day.
Implementing a nootropic into your regimen can significantly impact your ability to function effectively at work, home, or any other area of life. In this article, we have assembled a list of five powerful nootropics you can use to support your brain function.
TOP 5 NOOTROPICS
NOOCUBE
Most Clinically Tested
#1st Rated
MIND LAB PRO
Best For All Day Use
#2nd Rated
THESIS
Most Personalized Formula
#3rd Rated
CENTRAPEAK
Best For Men
#4th Rated
QUALIA MIND
Best For Long Term Support
#5th Rated
NooCube is a nootropic supplement manufactured by the trusted Wolfson Brands (UK) Limited. As leaders in the industry, Wolfson Brands are known for producing some of the most popular supplements on the market fat burners to testosterone boosters and legal steroids.
NooCube is one of the most effective products for boosting cognitive function. Known for its ability to support the formation of neurotransmitters, NooCube also provides the necessary nutrients for neuron growth and repair. This process helps the brain by enhancing concentration, memory, and mental energy as well as improving the capacity to multitask and communicate.
Wolfson Brands created NooCube with the help of neuroscientists to ensure all 7 of their ingredients are safe, thoroughly tested, and clinically backed; you can confidently use this natural formula knowing that it produces no harmful side effects.
One bottle of NooCube contains 60 capsules and will last one month if you take the recommended serving size of 2 capsules a day. Wolfson Brands suggest speaking to your doctor prior to use if you have any health concerns or take prescription medication.
PROS
- Formulated by neuroscientists.
- No known side effects.
- Ingredients are safe, natural, and clinically tested.
CONS
- The function of some ingredients is unclear.
Ingredients
NooCube uses a blend of vitamins and amino acids that are essential for brain health. Their formula was created to nourish neurotransmitters and keep you functioning at your best.
- Alpha GPC: A form of choline thought to increase levels of the neurotransmitter, Acetylcholine, leading to better memory and concentration.
- Huperzine A: Made from a type of Chinese moss, it helps by preventing the breakdown of Acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that improves concentration, memory, and mental clarity.
- Cat’s Claw Extract: Derived from the cat's claw plant, it functions as an antioxidant, improving overall brain health.
- Bacopa monnieri: An Indian herb thought to help repair damaged neurons and promote new nerve growth, improving mental performance.
- Oat Straw: Used in traditional medicine, it is known for reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the brain, leading to mental clarity.
- L-Tyrosine: An amino acid thought to improve mental performance by reducing the effects that stress and fatigue have on the brain.
- L-Theanine: An amino acid used to relieve stress and stimulate neurotransmitters, promoting both calmness and alertness.
Mind Lab Pro: Best for All Day Use
Mind Lab Pro is one of the most powerful nootropic supplements on the market. It is manufactured by Opti-Nutra, a well-respected company known for producing premium nutritional supplements.
Mind Lab Pro uses a clean and natural formula to support a wide range of cognitive functions. Whether you're struggling with motivation, focus, memory, or calmness, Mind Lab Pro has your brain covered across the board. Its list of 11 active ingredients were carefully chosen to keep your brain energized and functioning at its best.
Opti-Nutra recommends taking 2 capsules of Mind Lab Pro in the morning before breakfast. For best results, take with a cup of coffee or other caffeinated beverage; while Mind Lab Pro contains no caffeine, it does have ingredients that are complemented with the use of caffeine.
An added bonus of Mind Lab Pro is it can be taken multiple times throughout the day. If you get to that 2 o'clock slump and need an extra boost, take another 1-2 capsules to re-energize your brain. Opti-Nutra advises not to take more than 4 capsules in one day.
PROS
- Formula contains no stimulants.
- Ingredients are safe, natural, and clinically tested.
- Can be taken throughout the day for an extra boost.
- No known side effects.
- Quality evaluated by third-party testers.
CONS
- Doesn't stack well with other nootropic supplements.
Ingredients
Opti-Nutra prioritizes quality and transparency when it comes to its ingredients. Every batch of Mind Lab Pro is evaluated by third-party quality control.
- Citicoline (250 mg): A naturally occurring substance that protects neurotransmitters and improves memory, mental agility, and reaction time.
- Phosphatidylserine (100 mg): May improve mood, aid in memory formation, and prevent cognitive decline by reducing the effect of cortisol (stress hormone) on the brain.
- Bacopa monnieri (150 mg): An Indian herb thought to help repair damaged neurons and promote new nerve growth, improving mental performance.
- Organic Lion's Mane (500 mg): A Canadian mushroom used to improve memory, mood, sleep, and mental performance.
- Maritime Pine Bark Extract (75 mg): Used for its antioxidants to prevent toxins from damaging the brain, it increases blood flow to the brain and may help reverse cognitive decline.
- N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (175 mg): May support an elevated mood as well as increased energy and alertness.
- L-Theanine (100 mg): An amino acid used to relieve stress and stimulate neurotransmitters, promoting both calmness and alertness.
- Rhodiola rosea (50 mg): An adaptogen, it strengthens the brain's resistance to stress promoting calm and clear thinking.
- Vitamin B6 (2.5 mg): Used for its ability to maintain healthy blood vessels and support brain function.
- Vitamin B9 (100 mcg): Used to encourage healthy nerve growth and brain development.
- Vitamin B12 (7.5 mcg): Used to support energy levels and promote nerve health.
Thesis: Most Personalized Formula
Thesis takes a unique approach to nootropics by producing separate supplements to address different types of mental stress. These formulas are designed to improve energy, clarity, motivation, and creativity.
To begin using Thesis, you must first identify which formulas are most effective for you. This is done by taking a personalized quiz and completing a trial month—a time when users sample and track how their bodies react to each blend. After the first month, you can decide which kinds and how much of each supplement you want to receive. This is great because you're only paying for the ingredients and results you want.
Every nootropic from Thesis is blended using a combination of vitamins, minerals, and other natural elements. These ingredients are carefully selected to help build mental stamina, improve focus, and increase productivity.
Thesis packages one serving in an individual pouch so it's clear how much to use each day. For best results, they recommend taking the capsules first thing when you wake up while your stomach is empty.
PROS
- Offers different formulas to improve a variety of brain functions.
- The purchase comes with free coaching from nootropic experts.
- The formula is personalized to each individual.
- No known side effects.
CONS
- Must cycle through different formulas to see what works in the first month.
- Requires a time commitment to personalize.
Ingredients
Every nootropic from Thesis uses a blend of unique ingredients carefully chosen for their effectiveness. The ingredients are listed under their specific formulas below.
Choline (300 mg): A cognitive enhancer found in high protein foods used to support learning and memory.
NAC (500 mg): Found in high-protein foods it helps with the production of neurotransmitters and promotes body detoxification.
NALT (300 mg): Also known as N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine, it may support elevated mood as well as increased energy and alertness.
Sabroxy® (100 mg): A specially formulated version of Oroxylum indicum, this plant extract improves memory and protects neurons.
TeaCrine® (100 mg): A natural plant alkaloid believed to support motivation and energy levels while reducing irritability.
Zynamite® (300 mg): A form of Mangifera indica, found naturally in herbs, it improves memory and visual information processing along with supporting energy levels.
Caffeine (100 mg): Found in coffee, cacao, and tea, it contributes to increased energy and alertness and may prevent the onset of neurodegenerative diseases.
L-Theanine (200 mg): An amino acid used to relieve stress and stimulate neurotransmitters, promoting both calmness and alertness.
7,8-DHF (30 mg): Dihydroxyflavone helps to improve communication between neurons and protect the brain from neurological decline.
Alpha GPC (250 mg): A form of choline thought to increase levels of the neurotransmitter, Acetylcholine, leading to better memory and concentration.
Epicatechin (250 mg): Found in green tea and dark chocolate, it is an antioxidant that promotes neurological health by preventing the effects of oxidative stress on the brain.
Lion's Mane (500 mg): A Canadian mushroom used to improve memory, mood, sleep, and mental performance.
Caffeine (100 mg): Found in coffee, cacao, and tea, it contributes to increased energy and alertness and may prevent the onset of neurodegenerative diseases.
L-Theanine (200 mg): An amino acid used to relieve stress and stimulate neurotransmitters, promoting both calmness and alertness.
Artichoke Extract (450 mg): Contributes to increased blood flow, improving brain processes and reactions to stress.
Dynamine® (100 mg): A form of Methyl Libertine, resembling caffeine, that supports energy, alertness, and focus.
Forskolin (250 mg): Derived from an Asian mint plant, it supports the relaxation of arteries leading to improved blood flow in the brain.
L-Phenylalanine (500 mg): An amino acid believed to improve mood and support the ability to concentrate.
Vitamin B12 (1000 mcg): Used to support energy levels and promote nerve health.
Caffeine (100 mg): Found in coffee, cacao, and tea, it contributes to increased energy and alertness and may prevent the onset of neurodegenerative diseases.
L-Theanine (200 mg): An amino acid used to relieve stress and stimulate neurotransmitters, promoting both calmness and alertness.
- Agmatine (250 mg): Naturally produced by plants and bacteria, it contributes to feelings of calmness and may help with pain and mood management.
- Alpha GPC (150 mg): A form of choline thought to increase levels of the neurotransmitter, Acetylcholine, leading to better memory and concentration.
- Ginseng (200 mg): A plant root shown to increase the expression of the neurotransmitter, Acetylcholine, an important building block for learning, memory, and concentration.
- Ashwagandha (300 mg) An herb used to improve mood, reduce mental stress, and promote feelings of calmness.
- Zembrin® (25 mg): Taken from a South African plant, it promotes calmness, reduces stress, and may provide more restful sleep.
- Caffeine (100 mg): Found in coffee, cacao, and tea, it contributes to increased energy and alertness and may prevent the onset of neurodegenerative diseases.
- L-Theanine (200 mg): An amino acid used to relieve stress and stimulate neurotransmitters, promoting both calmness and alertness.
CentraPeak: Best for Men
CentraPeak is a natural testosterone booster and nootropic supplement created especially to restore healthy cognitive functions for men.
Adult men commonly experience a drop in testosterone levels as they age which can result in un-welcomed side effects like weight gain, low sex drive, mental fatigue, and irritability. CentraPeak is designed to alleviate these symptoms in addition to offering added cognitive support through nootropic ingredients.
CentraPeak helps to restore male vitality by boosting energy, building strength, and enhancing libido resulting in recharged confidence.
The serving size of CentraPeak is 3 capsules a day; taking 1 capsule with each meal is recommended, however they can be taken all at once if necessary. The company suggests speaking with your doctor before stacking CentraPeak with any other testosterone boosters or prescription medications.
PROS
- Offers a 2-in-1 effect of testosterone boost and improved cognitive function.
- Ingredients are safe and natural.
- No known side effects for adult men.
- Quality evaluated by third-party testers.
CONS
- Not recommended for women.
Ingredients
CentraPeak is made with researched-backed, natural ingredients that offer men a powerful boost in both mind and body.
- Vitamin D3 (82.5 mcg): Known as the sunshine nutrient, it is used to support healthy bones, muscles, and mental wellbeing.
- Vitamin B6 (10 mg): Used for its ability to maintain healthy blood vessels, support brain function, and stimulate testosterone production.
- Magnesium (50 mg): A vitamin that supports muscle health, increases testosterone levels, and improves mood stability.
- Zinc (20 mg): A mineral that works to regulate hormone levels, improve mood, and support mental wellbeing.
- Vitamin K2 (45 mcg): Used to strengthen bones, support testosterone production, improve cardiovascular health, and support mental processes like cognition, neuron communication, and memory.
- Indole-3-Carbinol (200 mg): A nutrient known to reduce estrogen and the effects of estrogen on the body.
- Ashwagandha (200 mg): An herb used to improve mood and reduce mental stress along with increasing testosterone, muscle strength, and fertility.
- Rhodiola rosea (100 mg): As an adaptogen, it strengthens the brain's resistance to stress promoting clear thinking and improving physical endurance.
- Mucuna Pruriens (75 mg): A plant used in Ayurvedic medicine, it is used to improve cognition and concentration, reduce cortisol levels, and increase testosterone levels.
- Korean Ginseng (100 mg): A plant root shown to support neuron health, improve blood circulation, and regulate hormones.
- Luteolin (50 mg): An antioxidant used to reduce estrogen, promote youthfulness, improve mood, and support neuron health.
- Phosphatidylserine (100 mg): It reduces cortisol levels to decrease stress responses, promote testosterone production, and improve mental processes.
- L-Tyrosine (150 mg): An amino acid thought to improve mental performance by reducing the effects stress and fatigue have on the body.
- Maritime Pine Bark (75 mg): Used for its antioxidants to prevent toxins from damaging the brain, enhancing libido, and supporting cardiovascular health.
- Bioperine (10 mg): A patented form of black pepper extract known for its ability to increase the bioavailability of other ingredients, making them more effective.
- Boron (10 mg): A chemical element shown to increase levels of free testosterone in addition to improving memory and reaction time.
Qualia Mind: Best for Long Term Support
Neurohacker Collective worked with top scientists, conducting thorough research, to produce their powerful nootropic supplement Qualia Mind.
The aim of Qualia Mind is to support cognition and well-being for the entire body—using only the purest forms of ingredients to help enhance focus, memory, and mental clarity in neurological systems across the board. This product is the ultimate nootropic and works quickly to maximize your brain function.
Qualia Mind's massive list of 28 ingredients contains vitamins, herbs, amino acids, antioxidants, and adaptogens that serve your brain health in both the short and long term. On top of this, Neurohacker Collective offers a caffeine-free version of Qualia Mind for those with sensitivities.
A serving size of Qualia Mind can differ depending on age, weight, and other characteristics. The label recommends taking up to 7 capsules in the morning before eating breakfast. If you have any health conditions or take prescription medication, check with your doctor before using Qualia Mind.
PROS
- Supports cognitive function and overall well being.
- Uses the purest form of ingredients possible.
- Caffeine-free version.
- Ingredients are safe and natural.
- No known side effects.
CONS
- Some ingredients may interact poorly with certain medical conditions.
- Serving size could be considered large by some users.
Ingredients
Qualia Mind is made up of 28 high-purity ingredients that support cognitive activity and maximize brain function. Each ingredient was chosen for its beneficial and synergistic properties.
- Vitamin C (100 mg): Is used as a potent antioxidant to prevent damage to the brain caused by toxins and protect neurotransmitters.
- Vitamin D3 (25 mcg): Known as the sunshine nutrient, it is used to promote healthy bones, strong muscles, and mental wellbeing.
- Thiamine (50 mg): Consumed as an essential part of metabolic processes, it supports energy and healthy blood glucose levels.
- Niacinamide (50 mg): A vitamin that supports the essential functions of cells and contributes to long term brain health.
- Vitamin B6 (20 mg): Used for its ability to maintain healthy blood vessels and support brain function.
- Vitamin B12 (1000 mcg): Used to support energy levels and promote nerve health.
- Pantothenic Acid (50 mg): A vitamin used to increase energy levels and support brain function.
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine (500 mg): An amino acid used to support neurotransmitters contributing to learning, memory, positive mood, and energy.
- Artichoke Leaf Extract (500 mg): Contributes to increased blood flow, improving brain processes and reactions to stress.
- Bacopa monnieri Leaf Extract (300 mg): An Indian herb thought to help repair damaged neurons and promote new nerve growth, improving mental performance.
- Rhodiola rosea Root Extract (300 mg): As an adaptogen, it strengthens the brain's resistance to stress promoting calm and clear thinking.
- DL-Phenylalanine (300 mg): An amino acid believed to improve mood and support the ability to concentrate.
- Uridine (250 mg): A building block of DNA that supports many functions in the body including mental processes and ability to sleep.
- N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (250 mg): May support an elevated mood as well as increased energy and alertness.
- Taurine (200 mg): An amino acid used to boost mood and memory while protecting neurons from being damaged.
- L-Theanine (200 mg): An amino acid used to relieve stress and stimulate neurotransmitters, promoting both calmness and alertness.
- Alpha-GPC (200 mg): A form of choline thought to increase levels of the neurotransmitter, Acetylcholine, leading to better memory and concentration.
- Cognizin® (150 mg): Also known as Citicoline, it is a naturally occurring substance that protects neurotransmitters and improves memory, mental agility, and reaction time.
- Organic Coffeeberry® Fruit Extract (129 mg): Containing caffeine, it affects cognitive performance by increasing alertness, reaction time, reasoning, and creative thinking.
- Velvet Bean Seed Extract (100 mg): Found in the Mucuna Pruriens plant, it is used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve cognition and concentration, reduce cortisol levels, and increase testosterone levels.
- Phosphatidylserine (100 mg): It is known to improve mood, aid in memory formation, and prevent cognitive decline by reducing the effect of cortisol on the brain.
- Theobromine (100 mg): An alkaloid found in Cocoa plants, similar to caffeine, used to promote alertness and energy levels.
- DHA (80 mg): An omega-3 fatty acid found in algae; it promotes brain development in addition to cardiovascular health.
- Celastrus paniculatus Seed Extract (60 mg): Found in an Indian tree, it is used by local healers for its neuroprotective benefits that help the body react positively to stress.
- Ginkgo biloba Leaf Extract (50 mg): Derived from a Chinese tree, it is used for its anti-inflammatory properties to improve blood flow in the brain.
- Coleus forskohlii Root Extract (20 mg): A plant used in traditional medicine to support nervous system and cardiovascular health.
- Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (10 mg): An essential part of growth and development, it is used to support many bodily systems like immunity and cognitive function.
- Huperzine A (5 mg): Made from a type of Chinese moss, it helps by preventing the breakdown of Acetylcholine, improving concentration, memory, and mental clarity.
- Coleus forskohlii Root Extract (20 mg): A plant used in traditional medicine to support nervous system and cardiovascular health.
- Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (10 mg): An essential part of growth and development, it is used to support many bodily systems like immunity and cognitive function.
- Huperzine A (5 mg): Made from a type of Chinese moss, it helps by preventing the breakdown of Acetylcholine, improving concentration, memory, and mental clarity.
Stacking Nootropics
How to Build Your Own Stack
Nootropic supplements are quickly becoming more popular, and many nutrition companies have decided to produce their own stacks. While there are plenty of these pre-made options available, you may still want a personalized formula. If you are needing to meet specific needs, consider blending individual ingredients to create your own stack. There are a few basic elements to keep in mind when building a stack:
Look out for negative interactions. Some ingredients do not go well together and could even be dangerous. It's important to research each ingredient to be sure they won't cause harmful effects when paired with another.
Check the doses. Having the right dose of an ingredient is essential. If you don't have enough, it won't be effective and if you have too much, it could be harmful.
Find the right forms. Ingredients come in all different kinds of states like liquids, powders, and capsules. You'll need to make sure the elements of your stack are available in the form you need.
Remember to think about the results you want from a nootropic and let that guide your decisions. Always do thorough research to find ingredients that will be safe, effective, and help you reach your goals. If you have questions, talk with a medical professional to learn what's right for you.
Selecting the Right Supplements
Once you have considered how to build your stack, it's time to start trying out supplements. Here are some tips for selecting the right ones:
Evaluate your needs. Consider the areas of your life where you would like to see change. Are you having trouble with focus, motivation, or energy? Think about what goals you have for reaching your ideal mental health and wellbeing.
Research the ingredients. With your desired results in mind, look for ingredients that can help you get there. Read customer reviews and clinical studies to find products that are safe and effective. Remember to watch out for ingredients that have negative interactions with others.
Start slowly. After finding the supplements you want, start incorporating them into your life slowly. If you've chosen multiple products, try taking one at a time to see how it affects your body. This will allow you to identify which products work well for you or if any cause unwanted side effects like an allergic reaction.
Don't get discouraged. If you try a product that doesn't produce the results you want, don't give up. Blending your own nootropics takes time. A little bit of trial and error is normal on the journey to find what works best for you.
Live a healthy lifestyle. Nootropics are one piece to the puzzle of overall well-being. The results you can expect to see from taking supplements will be magnified by engaging in other healthy practices. Getting enough sleep, staying active, and eating nourishing food are all steps toward reaching your full potential.
The Best Nootropics for Making Your Own Stack
If you are just getting started creating your own stack, you may want some help finding where to begin. The list below organizes a few options for supplements to stack based on their intended use. Note, this section will be more helpful after evaluating your specific needs and identifying what you want to accomplish by taking nootropics. (2,3,4)
Focus Stack:
- L-Theanine
- Caffeine
- L-Tyrosine
- Huperzine A
- Rhodiola rosea
Memory Stack:
- Citicoline
- Bacopa monnieri
- Phosphatidylserine
- Huperzine A
Motivation Stack:
- N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine
- Vitamin B12
- Rhodiola rosea
- L-Theanine
Energy Stack:
- Citicoline
- Rhodiola rosea
- Vitamin B12
- Pyrroloquinoline Quinone
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Mood Stack:
- L-Theanine
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin D3
- L-Phenylalanine
Calming Stack:
- Phosphatidylserine
- Bacopa monnieri
- L-Theanine
- B-vitamins
Brain Longevity Stack:
- Pine Bark Extract
- Lion's Mane Mushroom
- Citicoline
- Bacopa monnieri
Conclusion
We've created this article to provide you with the best information to start your nootropic journey. We recommend trying any of the supplements listed above if you think they could be right for you. For those hoping to create their own stack, use the lists of product ingredients described above for reference; remember to do thorough research before implementing new supplements into your diet.
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