Nootropics – HeySpotMeGirl.com https://heyspotmegirl.com Fri, 16 Apr 2021 09:19:07 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://heyspotmegirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/cropped-favicon-spotmegirl-alt_2-1-32x32.png Nootropics – HeySpotMeGirl.com https://heyspotmegirl.com 32 32 Do Nootropics Work? SpotMeGirl.com Investigates https://heyspotmegirl.com/supplements/nootropics/do-nootropics-work/ https://heyspotmegirl.com/supplements/nootropics/do-nootropics-work/#comments Tue, 19 Feb 2019 15:28:25 +0000 https://heyspotmegirl.com/?p=33039 A pill that can boost your brain’s function? It sounds almost too good to be true, yet the nootropics industry is booming right now.

Self-proclaimed neuro-hackers say they can transform your cognitive function, but what does this mean? And do nootropics work?

To find out for sure, we forgo personal reviews and delve into the science surrounding this new area of supplementation to see if nootropics can really work.

We’ve looked at the latest research to find out how they affect your brain, how you’ll feel the benefits they offer and answer the question: do nootropics work?

How nootropics work

Understanding how a nootropic works means more than just knowing what happens within your brain. When someone says it increases blood flow, we want to know what that means for your day to day mental performance and cognitive function. In short, how does it feel? Will it help you get more work done and will it make you smarter?

To ensure you understand whether nootropics work, we’ve looked into how they affect your body and the way you’ll feel these benefits in your day-to-day life.

After reviewing the most commonly used nootropic ingredients, we’ve rounded up the key ways this type of supplement effects your brain and how they will affect your cognitive performance.

Improves signal within the brain

Do Nootropics Work? SpotMeGirl.com Investigates 1

Within a number of nootropic ingredients, we’ve seen evidence of elements nourishing and improving the strength of the signals that pass between neurons within the brain.

For example, citicoline has been shown to split down into two compounds, choline and cytidine. When processed within the brain, choline has been shown to strengthen the signals between neurons within your brain [1].

Bacopa monnieri also possesses signal strengthening qualities. Once in the body, it splits into bacosides A and B, which nourish neurons to improve communication abilities [2].

By creating strong neural pathways, you can expect to experience better memory, attention span and ability to learn [3]. There’s also evidence to suggest it improves mood balance and slows brain aging [2].

With this in mind, you should find it easier to concentrate on tasks at work or, if you’re studying, you should retain information more readily. On top of that, you’ll generally have a more positive outlook.

Repairs, protects and regenerates

Several nootropic ingredients have been linked to repairing and regenerating brain cells, along with maintaining overall health.

Ingredients like cytidine, which is also derived from citicoline, can help to protect and repair your brain cells [4].

Phosphatidylserine has been shown to repair and regenerate the neurons [5], which can enhance memory, improve mood and make you feel more alert [6].

Lions Mane Mushroom is also a widely used nootropic and contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which help to produce Nerve Growth Factor within the brain [7]. This helps your cells to regenerate and repair.

Keeping your brain cells protected and healthy can make you feel sharper, boost your mood and make you feel more alert overall [8].

Helps the brain produce key neurotransmitters

do nootropics work

Neurotransmitters are essential to keeping your brain processes working well. They help to regulate a huge number of different processes including mood, recall and alertness.

Nootropics like L-tyrosine have been shown to help synthesize dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine, which can help to counteract stress in the brain [9].

L-theanine, derived from green tea has also been shown to promote neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and GABA, which can help to increase alertness, focus and calmness [10].

In your day-to-day life, these benefits are particularly useful if you regularly work in a high-pressured situation. Calmness and clarity can help you stay focused.

Many of these brain-boosting ingredients are often found in some of the most effective pre-workouts on the market. They’re used to provide another level of cognitive performance which should keep you focused and motivated to push endurance and elevate workouts.

Check out our favorite pre-workouts available to find out more!

[Related article: Best Pre-Workouts for Women]

Boosts alpha brain waves

Brainwaves are created when your neural network of synapses are communicating in harmony. The electrical signals firing between them create waves that can help scientists to understand how the brain is working [11].

Increased alpha brainwaves have been linked to a relaxed mental state and increased creativity [12].  Due to the positive effect on mood, increasing alpha brainwaves have been noted as a way to help treat anxiety and even depression [11].

It can also have a positive effect on the way you work, allowing you to improve your problem-solving skills and stay calm under pressure.

Do nootropics work?

To answer the all-important question of do nootropics work – science has shown us that a number of commonly used ingredients can have a positive influence on your brain function.

The extent to which they can enhance your cognitive performance is limited though.

If you’re expecting some kind of miracle pill that will help your IQ soar and get you an immediate promotion at work, then you’ll be disappointed.

In reality, nootropics work by helping you to focus, keep calm and generally improve your mood. While this will undoubtedly have a positive effect on your mental state, it’s important to stay realistic about the results you can expect.

Do nootropics work though? A nootropic will definitely give you an edge, but it won’t turn you into the next Nobel Prize winner.

References

  1. Taylor, P. and Brown, J.H. Synthesis, Storage and Release of Acetylcholine. Correspondence to Palmer Taylor and Joan Heller Brown, Department of Pharmacology, 0636, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093.
  2. Calabrese, C. et al. Effects of a Standardized Bacopa monnieri Extract on Cognitive Performance, Anxiety, and Depression in the Elderly: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. J Altern Complement Med. 2008 Jul; 14(6): 707–713.
  3. Hasselmo, M.E. The Role of Acetylcholine in Learning and Memory. Curr Opin Neurobiol. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2009 Mar 24.
  4. Grieb, P. Neuroprotective Properties of Citicoline: Facts, Doubts and Unresolved Issues. CNS Drugs. 2014; 28(3): 185–193. Published online 2014 Feb 7.
  5. Kim, H.Y. et al. Phosphatidylserine in the Brain: Metabolism and Function. Prog Lipid Res. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2015 Oct 1.
  6. Parker, A.G. et al. The effects of IQPLUS Focus on cognitive function, mood and endocrine response before and following acute exercise. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2011 Oct 21;8:16.
  7. Ma, B-J. et al. Hericenones and erinacines: stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF) biosynthesis in Hericium erinaceus. Mycology: An International Journal on Fungal Biology Volume 1, 2010 – Issue 2
  8. Nagano, M. et al. Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomed Res. 2010 Aug;31(4):231-7.
  9. Banderet LE, Lieberman HR. Treatment with tyrosine, a neurotransmitter precursor, reduces environmental stress in humans. Brain Res Bull. 1989 Apr;22(4):759-62
  10. Higashiyama, A. et al. Effects of l-theanine on attention and reaction time response. Journal of Functional Foods. Volume 3, Issue 3, July 2011, Pages 171-178.
  11. https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/the-athletes-way/201504/alpha-brain-waves-boost-creativity-and-reduce-depression
  12. Nobre, A.C. et al. L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:167-8

 

]]> https://heyspotmegirl.com/supplements/nootropics/do-nootropics-work/feed/ 1 8 Natural Nootropics That Really Work https://heyspotmegirl.com/supplements/nootropics/8-natural-nootropics/ https://heyspotmegirl.com/supplements/nootropics/8-natural-nootropics/#respond Tue, 12 Feb 2019 12:43:17 +0000 https://heyspotmegirl.com/?p=32884 Nootropics, brain pills or cognitive enhancers – whatever you want to call them capsules packed with promises of neurological improvements have exploded onto the supplement market in recent years.

They’ve grown exponentially in popularity, with familiar names like Adderall and Ritalin commonly used by students and professionals.

However, while these synthetic nootropics may help to boost brain power, they often come with side effects that can leave you with headaches, insomnia, heightened heart rate and even anxiety.

Rather than opting for something that could leave you with adverse symptoms, a natural nootropic can be a much safer, yet highly effective choice.

Mother Nature has a huge selection of completely natural nootropics that can help to support your brain with its natural functions.

A natural nootropic works by improving circulation, regenerating cells, strengthening neurotransmitters and protecting the brain in the long run. All of this helps your brain to function at a higher level.

What’s more, natural nootropics can do all of this without the nasty side effects that often come from a synthetic option.

If you’re looking for a natural nootropic to help take your cognitive function to new heights, look no further. We’ve rounded up the very best herbal options available.

New to nootropics? Check out our complete beginners guide right here.

Best natural nootropics

  • Caffeine
  • Lions Mane Mushroom
  • L-Theanine
  • Bacopa Monnieri
  • L-Tyrosine
  • Citicoline
  • Asian Ginseng
  • Rhodiola Rosea

Caffeine

coffee beans as a natural nootropic

It’s something many of us consume on a daily basis, but caffeine is also a powerful nootropic. The feeling of alertness and wakefulness you feel after drinking a cup of coffee can be attributed to its brain boosting powers.

Studies have shown it can help to improve long-term memory [1], which can be extremely beneficial if you’re studying for an exam.

Caffeine can also greatly improve your reaction times, giving you a heightened sense of alertness and focus in your day-to-day life [2].

Lions Mane Mushroom

This mushroom is a common occurrence in traditional Asian medicine and has proven itself as a potent nootropic.

Research has shown that Lion Manes Mushroom contains active compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which stimulate the production of Nerve Growth Factor [3].

This helps to keep the brain healthy, ensures the signals between neurons are strong and helps to repair nerves within the brain [4]. This results in a reduction in anxiety and stress symptoms [5].

L-Theanine

l-theanine leaves as tea

This amino acid is derived from tea and has been shown to boost your brain health and cognitive functions in a number of different ways.

The main benefits of taking l-theanine are based around concentration and mood.

Research has proven that l-theanine can increase alpha brain waves [6]. In this study, these larger waves have been linked to a simultaneous feeling of calm alertness and relaxed concentration, which helps to deal with stress.

L-theanine can also increase the presence of key neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and GABA [7]. This can help with long-term brain health and has been linked to a reduction in stress and tension [8].

Related Article: Find out how green tea can help you burn more fat right here. 

Bacopa Monnieri

This ingredient has a strong effect on your memory.

In a double-blind trial, researchers found that those who took Bacopa Monnieri showed an impressive improvement in recall and memory accuracy [9].

It also contains two active compounds called bacosides A and B, which have been shown to improve the way your body processes and deals with stress [10].

L-Tyrosine

L-tyrosine amino acid molecular structure

This amino acid helps to synthesize neurotransmitters like dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine [11]. By giving you a healthy boost of these transmitters, you can expect your memory, concentration and problem-solving skills to be greatly improved [12].

Citicoline

Within your body, citicoline breaks down into two compounds – cytidine and choline. These can then transform the signal strength between neurons within your brain [13], which can have a positive impact on your memory, attention span and learning [14].

It can also signal the release of uridine, which has been shown to protect and repair your brain cells. As a result, this process may improve mood and overall long-term health [15].

Asian Ginseng

Asian ginseng root

This is one of the mostly widely used and highly researched herbal medicines in the world, and a potent natural nootropic.

Within the brain, Asian ginseng works as an adaptogen, which helps your body deal with, and adapt to the symptoms of stress and fatigue. It does this by boosting GABA levels to fortify your mind [16].

It may also help to protect and renew key neurotransmitters in the brain, which can inhibit the chemical reactions that cause depression and anxiety [17].

Ginseng can also improve your memory and ability to learn. Several studies have shown it can help to boost nerve growth factor, which can lead to a heightened ability to recall and improved alertness [18].

Rhodiola Rosea

This is another hugely popular natural nootropic, that can be found a number of top-quality stacks.

Studies have shown that it can enhance mood and combat the effects of depression [19]. As a powerful adaptogen, it does this by influencing a number of brain chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine [20].

Rhodiola rosea has also been shown to improve your ability to focus and combat ‘brain fog’ by repairing and maintaining neurons [21].

Final word

The world is packed with potent natural nootropics, that can help to boost your brain function in a huge number of ways.

If you’re looking for a mental edge, check out these natural nootropics, or pack an even more powerful punch with a stack. These combine a range of these ingredients so you can benefit from a plethora of mental improvements.

From elevated memory to heightened focus, opting for a natural option is a safe and effect way to enhance your cognitive performance.

Try them out for yourself and see if they can help you achieve more powerful brain function.

References

  1. Borota D., Murray E., Keceli G., Chang A., Watabe J.M., Ly M., Toscano J.P., Yassa M.A. “Post-study caffeine administration enhances memory consolidation in humans.” Nature Neuroscience. 2014 Feb; 17(2):201-3.
  2. Penetar D.M. et. Al. “Effects of Caffeine on Cognitive Performance, Mood, and Alertness in Sleep-Deprived Humans” Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Military Nutrition Research National Academies Press (US); 1994.
  3. Kawagishi H., et. Al. “Erinacines A, B and C, strong stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)-synthesis, from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceum” Tetrahedron Letters Volume 35, Issue 10, 7 March 1994, Pages 1569–1572
  4. Lai P.L., Naidu M., Sabaratnam V., Wong K.H., David R.P., Kuppusamy U.R., Abdullah N., Malek S.N. “Neurotrophic properties of the Lion’s mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia.” International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. 2013;15(6):539-54.
  5. Nagano M., Shimizu K., Kondo R., Hayashi C., Sato D., Kitagawa K., Ohnuki K. “Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake.” Biomedical Research. 2010 Aug;31(4):231-7.
  6. Song C.H., Jung J.H., Oh J.S., Kim K.S. “Effects of Theanine on the Release of Brain Alpha Wave in Adult Males.” Korean Journal of Nutrition 2003 Nov;36(9):918-923.
  7. Nathan P.J., Lu K., Gray M., Oliver C. “The neuropharmacology of L-theanine(N-ethyl-L-glutamine): a possible neuroprotective and cognitive enhancing agent.” Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy. 2006;6(2):21-30.
  8. Kimura K., Ozeki M., Juneja L.R., Ohira H. “L-Theanine reduces psychological and physiological stress responses.” Biological Psychology. 2007 Jan;74(1):39-45.
  9. Stough C., Downey L.A., Lloyd J., Silber B., Redman S., Hutchison C., Wesnes K., Nathan P.J. “Examining the nootropic effects of a special extract of Bacopa monniera on human cognitive functioning: 90 day double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial.” Phytotherapy Research 2008 Dec;22(12):1629-34
  10. Sheikh, N. et al. Effect of Bacopa monniera on stress induced changes in plasma corticosterone and brain monoamines in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2007 May 22;111(3):671-6. Epub 2007 Jan 30.
  11. Purves, D. et al. Neuroscience. 2nd edition.
  12. Shurtleff, D. et al. Tyrosine reverses a cold-induced working memory deficit in humans. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 1994 Apr;47(4):935-41.
  13. Taylor, P. and Brown, J.H. Synthesis, Storage and Release of Acetylcholine. Correspondence to Palmer Taylor and Joan Heller Brown, Department of Pharmacology, 0636, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093.
  14. Hasselmo, M.E. The Role of Acetylcholine in Learning and Memory. Curr Opin Neurobiol. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2009 Mar 24.
  15. Grieb, P. Neuroprotective Properties of Citicoline: Facts, Doubts and Unresolved Issues. CNS Drugs. 2014; 28(3): 185–193. Published online 2014 Feb 7.
  16. Filaretov A.A., Bogdanova T.S., Podvigina T.T., Bodganov A.I. “Role of pituitary-adrenocortical system in body adaptation abilities.”Experimental and Clinical Endocrinology. 1988 Dec;92(2):129-36
  17. Radad K., Gille G., Moldzio R., Saito H., Rausch W.D. “Ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 effects on mesencephalic dopaminergic cells stressed with glutamate.” Brain Research. 2004 Sep 17;1021(1):41-53.
  18. Nishiyama N., Cho S.I., Kitagawa I., Saito H. “Malonylginsenoside Rb1 potentiates nerve growth factor (NGF)-induced neurite outgrowth of cultured chick embryonic dorsal root ganglia.” Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin. 1994 Apr;17(4):509-13.
  19. Darbinyan V., Aslanyan G., Amroyan E., Gabrielyan E., Malmström C., Panossian A. “Clinical trial of Rhodiola rosea L. extract SHR-5 in the treatment of mild to moderate depression.” Nordic Journal of Psychiatry. 2007;61(5):343-8.
  20. Lishmanov Iu.B., Trifonova Zh.V., Tsibin A.N., Maslova L.V., Dement’eva L.A. “[Plasma beta-endorphin and stress hormones in stress and adaptation].” – in Russian Biull Eksp Biol Med. 1987 Apr;103(4):422-4.
  21. Qin Y.J., Zeng Y.S., Zhou C.C., Li Y., Zhong Z.Q. “[Effects of Rhodiola rosea on level of 5-hydroxytryptamine, cell proliferation and differentiation, and number of neuron in cerebral hippocampus of rats with depression induced by chronic mild stress].” in Chinese Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2008 Dec;33(23):2842-6.
]]> https://heyspotmegirl.com/supplements/nootropics/8-natural-nootropics/feed/ 0 Nootropics: A Beginners Guide to Brain Boosting Nootropics https://heyspotmegirl.com/supplements/nootropics/beginners-nootropics-guide/ https://heyspotmegirl.com/supplements/nootropics/beginners-nootropics-guide/#respond Thu, 22 Nov 2018 16:42:38 +0000 https://heyspotmegirl.com/?p=30671 Boosting brain performance and increasing cognitive ability all sounds a little too good to be true. But girl, nootropics really can deliver. Read on and find out exactly what they are, how they can help and whether you should be taking them.

Manufacturers claim they can improve your memory, creativity, focus and motivation. Now we’re all for improving our health, and that all sounds awesome, but is messing with your brain ok?

Self-confessed “neurohackers” all over the world seem to think so and apparently, it’s not actually ‘messing’. More like augmenting.

Nootropics have experienced a huge boom in popularity in the last few years, with huge promises of improved brain function and boosted cognitive performance. What’s more, those who take them are saying they can really feel the benefits too.

There are so many nootropics out there, both synthetic and natural that claim to deliver these amazing results. To find out if they really do, we delve right into this exciting new area. We find out exactly what Nootropics are, how they do what they do and whether they’re worth your money.

What are nootropics?

Woman infront of a chalk board with a brain drawn on it

Without going into all the sciency stuff straight away, nootropics are essentially brain boosters. Just as you might supplement your muscles to work more efficiently, a nootropic does just that, but for your brain.

These supplements contain ingredients that enhance your brain health and improve overall cognitive functions. This translates into a number of benefits including:

  • Better focus
  • Increased attention span
  • Boosted motivation
  • Enhanced alertness

Plus, according to advocates, nootropics deliver all of the above as well as improving your mood and making you feel more relaxed.

As research around them grows, we see more and more nootropics on the supplement market. Some are entirely natural, and some are synthetically created. Before you buy, it’s a good idea to educate yourself on what they do, how they affect you and whether or not they’re safe. Read on, girl.

How do nootropics work?

The benefits sound great right?! Whether you’re looking for an edge at work, or are running ten projects at once, a nootropic can help you out.

To fully understand how they deliver these brain-boosting benefits, we need to know how they work. The truth is, there are many ways they can help to improve your cognitive performance. None of it is witchcraft or weird super-natural science either. Check it out:

How nootropics work:

  • Improving communication – The neurons within your brain communicate with each other via neurotransmitters to regulate every cognitive function and reach memories. Nootropics can support this by helping your brain produce more neurotransmitters and increasing the sensitivity of receptors. This should help to improve learning ability and memory.
  • Rebuilding tissue – Some nootropics offer the ability to signal growth factor synthesis. This could help the brain growth process and help the body to develop neuronal tissue.
  • Boosting blood flow – By maintaining blood vessels within the brain, nootropics may help to deliver more oxygen and essential nutrients where they’re needed.
  • Protecting the brain – Neuroprotectors within nootropics may help to shore up your brain’s natural defenses against issues that could cause damage.
  • Increase energy – A nootropic may improve the efficiency of energy processes within your brain. This is important as your brain demands around 20% of the energy your body produces.

a capsules sending brain boosting power to a head

Different types of nootropics

There are so many ingredients out there that offer a range of nootropic qualities. We’ve rounded up all the main types of nootropics, what they do and examples of where you can find them.

Amino acids

These molecules are used throughout your body, and in the brain they’re on of the most versatile, multi-functional nootropics available. They’re a precursor to dopamine, regulates serotonin and GABA, and even improves neurotransmission.

These will help to increase attention, motivation and your ability to concentrate. They also enhance your memory which, in turn boosts your ability to learn.

Examples of amino acid nootropics: L-Theanine, N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine

Nutrients

Just like any other part of your body, your brain needs nutrients to stay healthy and boost vitality. These come in the form of vitamins and minerals. You can usually get these in your leafy greens and through a healthy diet, however supplementation can occasionally boost performance.

Nutrients can help to improve the efficiency of neurotransmitters, keep you brain energy high and improve circulation.

Examples of nutrient nootropics: Vitamin B6, Vitamin B9 and Vitamin B12

Herbs

Mother Nature created plenty of powerful nootropic ingredients that really pack a punch. From roots to leaves, extracts from a number of natural products can have a positive impact on your cognitive abilities.

They can help to improve concentration, boost your creativity and help you retain more information.

Examples of herbal nootropics: Bacopa Monnieri, Lions Mane Mushroom, Maritime Pine Bark Extract

Phospholipids

This nootropic is a naturally occurring fat that’s present in both your brain and a number of the foods we eat. For example, phospholipids can be sourced from egg yolks, fish and soy, among others. As we get older, your phospholipid levels begin to decline, so it can be very beneficial to top up on this important nootropic.

Phospholipids play an essential role in the growth of brain cells and overall repair.

Examples of phospholipid nootropics: Phophatidylserine (from sunflowers)

Adaptogens

These are included within herbal nootropics. However, it’s worth knowing their specific function, especially in a modern, stressful world, as Adaptogens are specific nootropics that hold stress-combatting abilities. Much in the same way your muscles grow stronger when you put them under strain in a workout, adaptogens improve your brains ability to adapt to stress. Ultimately, they help make you feel calmer, more focused and emotionally stable.

Examples of adaptogens nootropics: Rhodiola Rosea

Choline

This natural nootropic helps your body to make and efficiently use fats. This is important, because believe it or not, your brain is mostly made up of fat. As such, choline plays a big part in helping to keep your brain healthy, improving it’s ability to repair itself and maintain plasticity.

Due to their brain maintaining properties, choline nootropics help to boost your mental energy too. This also improves your mood and enhances your ability to retain information and memory.

Examples of choline nootropics: Citicoline

Synthetics

Although this isn’t specifically a ‘type’ of nootropic, we felt we had to mention the synthetic options out there.

Some nootropics are only available via prescription and are synthetically created to bring you certain results. You may recognize a few of them. For example, Adderall and Ritalin are both widely prescribed to help with focus and mood control.

Synthetic options tend to be more powerful than natural nootropics, which is why they usually need to be prescribed by a doctor to treat a certain issue. They can also come with side-effects and, when abused by taking too much, can have adverse effects to brain function.

 

woman drinking out of a coffee cup

Are they safe and legal?

Nootropics aren’t a new development and, for the most part, they’re all legal.

You may be taking a nootropic every day in your favorite mug without even realizing it. For example, caffeine is a type of nootropic – it keeps you focused and improves attention span.

Although you may be taking these more than you realize, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re always safe.

The fact of the matter is, the nootropics industry has rapidly grown in the last few years, and this has happened without any real kind of regulation. Therefore, there are quite a few products out there that may give you some unwanted side effects.

To ensure safety, one of the best things you can do is avoid stacks or pills that use synthetic chemicals, unless you’re prescribed them by your doctor. If you are prescribed them, stick to the recommended dose to avoid any adverse symptoms.

Instead, opt for the all-natural products, where manufacturers back their ingredient choices and dosages with legitimate scientific research.

If you follow these guidelines, you should be safe while you use nootropics. However, if you’re worried consult your doctor before you buy anything.

 

woman with a headache holding her head

Do nootropics have any side effects?

Some of the synthetically created nootropics can leave far more than a bad taste in your mouth.

Adderall has been noted to cause anxiety, reduce sex drive and make you sweat. Ritalin can result in insomnia, stomach issues, headaches and a lack of appetite.

In terms of natural options, the majority of nootropics that harness the power of Mother Nature present a much lower potential for adverse symptoms.

If your nootropic stack comes with caffeine, ensure you have it with plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Always stick to the recommended guidelines when you take your natural nootropics and you should avoid any potential side-effects.

Related article: Pre-Workout Side Effects (And How to Avoid Them)

Should I take them?

If you find it hard to concentrate or you’re feeling overwhelmed by work, then a nootropic can go a long way to help.

People all over the world have used them and seen the results.

However, tracking down the individual nootropics and taking them can be a little difficult and not the best way to reap all of the rewards. For an all-round boost to your cognitive performance, we recommend using a nootropics stack.

A good stack will contain a range of ingredients designed to boost your cognitive performance in a number of different ways. They should give you the best chance to benefit from all the brain boosting properties of a variety of different nootropics.

If you do decide to take them, our advice is simply stick to the natural, well-researched ingredients that are proven to provide the results you’re looking for.

Thoroughly explore the products out there and find the one that ticks all the right boxes.

Conclusion

As with any other form of supplementation, the trick is to know what you’re looking for and do your research. Now you know what a nootropic is and what kind of benefits you can expect, you can head out into the world of this brain boosting supplement with confidence.

As always, we recommend looking out for all-natural options, that are widely used and are backed by science. Don’t go for anything synthetic, your body just isn’t ready to handle that kind of thing!

The best way to see if nootropics work for you is to head out there and try one out for yourself. Thoroughly explore the products available and find the one that ticks all the right boxes.

 

Discover more helpful SMG guides and check out these article:

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