Open Your Mind to Nootropics
- 9/14/22
Imagine you’re about to boost your brainpower. If you have no idea how to start, learn why nootropics make sense.
When you’re overworked and under stress, it’s mentally draining and straining. During times like these, you’ve probably wished for a magic pill to suddenly boost your brain power. Today, this mind-boggling concept isn’t only seen in sci-fi movies because it now appears in the supplement aisle by the name of nootropics. If the thought of popping a pill to boost your brainpower seems too good to be true, think again. Nootropics hold the potential to supercharge your brain to function better, faster, and smarter—but that’s just the beginning because these cognitive enhancers can also improve your memory, mood, and more! To wrap your head around their powers and find the best brain boosters for you, learn why nootropics may be a smart choice for you.
A Brilliant Idea Brought to Life
Nootropics are any natural or synthetic substance that may have a positive effect on your cognitive performance. What’s in a name? In this case, their claim to fame because the name “nootropics” comes from the Greek words for “mind” and “to turn.” So nootropics essentially let you turn your mind into what you’ve always wanted it to be, which is probably sharper, smarter, and more productive! They’re also commonly called cognitive enhancers. Their name may be new to you, but you’ve probably been reaching for a cup or can of nootropics for years to perk up your brain because caffeine is one of the original nootropics.
Know About Natural vs. Synthetic Nootropics
Today, cognitive enhancers come in both natural and synthetic forms. Natural nootropics are herbs, botanicals, or foods found in nature. You can find them in dietary supplements or simply at the supermarket. Synthetic nootropics are formulated in a lab using chemical ingredients and include pills, capsules, powders, and liquids that are classified as drugs or medicines. Synthetic selections are also available as over-the-counter supplements.
The Brain Powers of Nootropics
Unlike some of the crazes and crazy products in dietary supplements today, nootropics aren’t all hype and hoopla because many have been clinically studied and shown to promote cognitive function, memory, focus, intelligence, creativity, and motivation. Natural nootropics help boost your cognitive function by increasing blood circulation and oxygen to your brain, while providing it with vital nutrients. All of this may improve the health of your brain by protecting it from toxins and decreasing the effects of brain aging. In contrast, synthetic nootropics are usually designed to regulate cognitive processes in your brain, while some are formulated to resemble their natural counterparts and mimic their natural processes. However, they work their wonders, the benefits of nootropics include:
Best Nootropics to Train Your Brain
If you prefer your nootropics to come from the land instead of the lab, you’re not alone. Many foods, herbs, and botanicals with nootropic compounds provide the same brain boost and benefits of their synthetic counterparts. Aside from enhancing your cognitive function, they provide a dose of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals to support your health from head to toe. Many natural nootropics have been used for thousands of years, so they tend to work with your body synergistically. And they don’t come with the possible side effects of synthetics. The most common kinds of natural nootropics include:
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Caffeine – A natural stimulant that helps boost energy, mental alertness, and focus.
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Bacopa Monnieri – This ancient herb is used to support memory, improve focus, and enhance brain function.
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L-theanine – This amino acid may increase cognitive performance.
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Gingko biloba – This botanical increases blood flow to the brain and may enhance memory.
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Panax ginseng – An ancient medicinal plant that can improve your ability to focus on mentally demanding tasks.
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Lion’s mane mushrooms – These wild mushrooms can heighten your ability to focus and help your brain regenerate at the cellular level.
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Rhodiola rosea – A mountain herb that may help improve mood, motivation, memory, and learning.
Take a Smart Approach to Nootropics
To see if nootropics make sense for you, first speak to your doctor about the wisest way to proceed. Then, resist the temptation to try everything at once. Experts recommend sticking to safe and well-tested supplements from trusted brands, then trying one nootropic at a time before slowly adding more based on your cognitive goals. To maximize their brain-boosting benefits, combine them with healthy habits like plenty of sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise. Together, their effects can be mind-blowing.
