Best Nootropics Guide - The Best Nootropics 2024
July 30, 2024
Welcome to our review of the best nootropics currently available. Interest in nootropics, often known as brain supplements or smart drugs, is growing rapidly. These supplements are becoming a go-to choice for people looking to boost their mental performance. This includes better memory, improved focus, and overall enhanced cognitive functioning. Whether it's students aiming to excel in their studies, professionals looking to sharpen their focus at work, or individuals simply seeking to maintain a healthy brain function as they age, nootropics are catering to a broad audience.
After 12 months of extensive testing, we have gathered significant insights into the effectiveness and safety of these products. Nootropics have shown promising results in supporting mental clarity and cognitive agility.
What Are Nootropics?
Nootropics are substances or supplements designed to enhance cognitive functions such as memory, creativity, motivation, and attention. These cognitive enhancers have been known for many years but have gained popularity recently due to increased understanding of brain health and a growing interest in mental performance improvement.
The Variety of Nootropics
The market offers a wide range of nootropic products, each claiming superiority. This abundance can make selecting the right one a daunting task. To assist in making an informed decision, we have established criteria to identify the best nootropic supplements. These standards ensure that the products we recommend are effective, safe, and reliable.
Criteria for Selection
Personal Experience
We have conducted long-term testing, using these products ourselves for 12 months. This hands-on experience provides a unique perspective on how these supplements perform in everyday life.
Effectiveness
A crucial consideration is the effectiveness of the ingredients. We have thoroughly researched each product, ensuring their claims are supported by scientific studies that validate their ability to improve cognitive function.
Safety
Safety is paramount. We verify that these supplements meet stringent safety standards and are composed of high-quality ingredients. We also review any known side effects to ensure they are minimal and manageable.
Customer Feedback
User reviews offer valuable insights. We analyze feedback from real users to assess the effectiveness and satisfaction levels of each product.
Cost
While price does not always correlate with quality, it is an important factor. We aim to recommend products that provide excellent value for money, balancing cost with the benefits provided.
Overall Value
We consider not just the price but what you receive for your money, including the dosage, ingredient quality, and the reputation of the manufacturer.
Our Objective
Our goal is to offer a comprehensive and unbiased overview of the top nootropic supplements available. We believe that well-informed decisions lead to better outcomes. Whether you are new to nootropics or looking to change your current regimen, this guide is meant to help you find a product that meets your cognitive enhancement needs and health goals.
Overall Verdict
NooCube
BEST OVERALL
4.9 / 5 Stars
Mind Vitality
BEST FOR PRODUCTIVITY
4.8 / 5 Stars
Nooceptin
BEST FOR LEARNING
4.7 / 5 Stars
1. NooCube - Best Nootropic Overall
A comprehensive and clinically proven ingredient profile makes NooCube DBEM's best nootropic overall.
Our NooCube review found it enhances cognitive function, promotes mental clarity and focus, and increases energy levels. Additionally, it may improve productivity and create a more positive outlook on life. NooCube's latest formulation was released in February 2024 and is even further improved over the previous version.
Individuals who take NooCube have reported better thought control, increased ability to maintain individual thought strands, and improved focus on tasks. Reaction times may also improve, which is particularly beneficial for athletes or anyone engaged in sports or other activities that require quick reflexes. Memory, spatial awareness, and mindfulness may also be enhanced by NooCube, leading to greater productivity and overall happiness.
Cons
- LuteMax 2020
- Bacopa Monnieri (250mg)
- Panax Ginseng 200:1 Concentrate (20mg)
- Pterostilbene (140mcg)
- Resveratrol (14.3mg)
- L-theanine (100mg)
- L-tyrosine (250mg)
- Choline (250mg)
- Cat’s claw 4:1 Concentrate
- Vitamin B1 (1.1mg)
- Vitamin B7 (50mcg)
- Vitamin B12 (2.5mcg)
One of the main features of NooCube is its entirely natural, non-toxic formula that is free from side effects. The product comprises 13 well-known ingredients in the nootropic world due to their proven effectiveness. Bacopa Monnieri, for instance, is an herb that enhances nerve signal reception, leading to quicker reaction times and improved cognitive functions.
Another ingredient in NooCube is Alpha GPC, which boosts the body's production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for memory and learning. Additionally, L-theanine and L-tyrosine are included to improve mood, extend attention span, enhance reaction times, and reduce stress levels and fatigue symptoms.
NooCube also incorporates Huperzine A to bolster memory function and oat straw extract to heighten responsiveness. These ingredients are beneficial for focus and concentration. Resveratrol and pterostilbene, polyphenols commonly found in berries, serve as powerful antioxidants that slow aging and help prevent age-related cognitive decline.
The synergy of these ingredients keeps the brain healthy and fully functional. NooCube enhances cognition and focus, increases energy levels, and combats aging, resulting in a happier, clearer mind and more efficient daily performance. The most recent update to the formula now includes Lutemax 2020, which is scientifically proven to support attention, verbal memory, processing speed, and stress response.
Summary
When purchasing NooCube from the official website, customers receive a 60-day money-back guarantee. This is a fantastic deal for a fantastic product - one of the most potent and effective nootropics available on the market today.
2. Mind Vitality - Best Nootropic For Productivity
Mind Vitality is a comprehensive nootropic supplement, offering a range of cognitive enhancements. For those of us looking for a mental boost, here's what it brings to the table:
Increased Focus and Mental Clarity: Mind Vitality aims to sharpen focus and clear mental fog. This is great for anyone who needs to stay on task for extended periods, whether it's for work, study, or everyday life.
Enhanced Memory and Learning: Mind Vitality is designed to help with improving memory recall and learning abilities. This is especially useful for students or professionals who need to absorb and retain large amounts of information.
Stress Management: It offers benefits in terms of managing stress and promoting a balanced mood. This is particularly valuable for those with high-pressure lifestyles who need to maintain mental well-being.
Long-term Brain Health: Mind Vitality is also about thinking ahead, supporting long-term brain health and cognitive function. It's a thoughtful approach for anyone interested in maintaining their mental acuity as they age.
Mind Vitality's formulation is very well-rounded, making it a solid option for a wide range of people looking to boost their mental performance and health.
Cons
- Lion's Mane (500mg)
- Bacopa Monnieri (300mg)
- N-Acetyle L-Tyrosene (250mg)
- Choline (250mg)
- Ashwagandha (200mg)
- Rhodiola Extract (200mg)
- Ginseng Korean (100mg)
- Phosphatidylserine (100mg)
- Mucuna Extract (75mg)
- Pine Bark Extract (75mg)
- Ginkgo Biloba (50mg)
- Huperzia Serrata (200mcg)
- B1 (Thiamine HCL) (100mg)
- B3 (Niacin) (12.5mg)
- Vitamin B6 (5mg)
- Vitamin B9 (100mcg)
- Vitamin B12 (5mcg)
Mind Vitality includes 500mg of Lion's Mane, renowned for supporting cognitive functions such as memory and concentration[24]. It also contains 300mg of Bacopa Monnieri, traditionally used to enhance memory and learning capabilities[25].
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine, at 250mg, aids in the production of neurotransmitters, which are essential for cognitive alertness and mental performance[26]. Another key ingredient is Choline, at 250mg, vital for brain health and maintaining cell membrane integrity[27].
Ashwagandha, at 200mg, is well-regarded for its ability to reduce stress, thereby improving mental clarity and focus[28]. Additionally, Rhodiola Extract, also at 200mg, is known for its ability to combat mental fatigue and boost cognitive function[29].
It also includes 100mg of Korean Ginseng, linked to enhanced mental performance and increased energy. Phosphatidylserine, also at 100mg, supports brain health, particularly memory and learning.
Mind Vitality utilizes 75mg of Mucuna Extract and 75mg of Pine Bark Extract, along with 50mg of Ginkgo Biloba, all contributing to overall cognitive health and performance. Huperzia Serrata is included at 200mcg, and a blend of B vitamins—Thiamine (B1), Niacin (B3), Vitamin B6, Folic Acid (B9), and Vitamin B12—further enhance the supplement’s nootropic effect, supporting various aspects of brain health and cognitive function.
Summary
Mind Vitality excels at enhancing focus, which is crucial for managing multiple tasks or handling demanding workloads. It effectively cuts through mental fog, keeping you focused on your tasks[30]. Whether you're tackling complex projects or need to stay alert during meetings, Mind Vitality supports sustained concentration.
Furthermore, we found it helpful in combating mental exhaustion. Even during prolonged periods of intense mental effort, Mind Vitality provides an extra boost, maintaining mental energy and preventing burnout[31].
For those looking for a supplement that enhances cognitive function, boosts productivity, and reduces fatigue, Mind Vitality is an excellent option. It is particularly suited for individuals who need to stay mentally sharp and focused[32].
3. Nooceptin - Best Nootropic For Cognition And Learning
Nooceptin, a stellar nootropic blend by SAP Nutra, has been turning heads for its remarkable potential in enhancing cognitive function and overall brain health.
Nooceptin lives up to its claims of being a potent cognitive enhancer. It enhances memory retention and recall, sharpens focus, reduces stress and anxiety, stimulates the growth of new brain cells, and fortifies neuron connections. It helps you realize your complete cognitive potential and may even have a positive impact on Alzheimer's Disease.
Nooceptin optimizes brain performance via six principal mechanisms. It enhances cerebral blood flow, ensuring brain cells receive ample oxygen and nutrients, leading to clear thinking. It stimulates dendrite growth on neurons, thus reinforcing neuron connections and enhancing brainpower. Our review of Nooceptin also found that it promotes brain cell development by increasing neurotrophic factors, responsible for new brain cell formation and maturity. It surges the levels of Acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter vital for focus, learning, and information processing. Furthermore, Nooceptin aids in superior memory retention and swift recall, and acts as a brain shield, protecting against the detrimental effects of stress and anxiety.
Cons
- Lion’s Mane (400 mg)
- Citicoline (200 mg)
- Rhodiola Rosea (150 mg)
- L-Theanine (200 mg)
- Bacopa Monnieri Extract (150 mg)
- Ginkgo Biloba Extract (100 mg)
- Panax Ginseng (200 mg)
Nooceptin's clear and well-dosed ingredient profile is impressive. Nooceptin's formula is a blend of natural ingredients known for cognitive benefits like Citicoline, Rhodiola Rosea, Bacopa monnieri, L-Theanine, Ginkgo biloba, Lion's Mane, and Panax ginseng.
Citicoline is a naturally occurring compound vital for the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a crucial component of cell membranes. Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb that enhances cognitive function, reduces mental fatigue, and improves stress resistance. Bacopa monnieri, a traditional Ayurvedic herb, is known for its cognitive-enhancing properties. L-Theanine, an amino acid found primarily in green tea, promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and improves focus and attention. Ginkgo biloba, a widely used herbal supplement, improves memory, cognitive function, and cerebral blood flow. Lion's Mane, a medicinal mushroom, stimulates nerve growth factor production, improves cognitive function, and protects against neurodegenerative diseases. Panax ginseng is a well-known adaptogenic herb, it improves cognitive function, reduces mental fatigue, and enhances stress resistance.
Summary
Nooceptin presents a compelling case as a cognitive enhancer, especially for professionals in high-pressure environments. By enhancing focus and decreasing stress, Nooceptin could contribute to improved productivity, and alleviate feelings of stress or anxiety during high-pressure moments. Its potent blend of natural ingredients, coupled with its scientifically-proven benefits, make it an excellent choice for those seeking to boost their cognitive abilities, whilst also supporting long-term brain health.
4. Vyvamind - Best Nootropic For Focus
A single-minded focus on performance makes Vyvamind the best nootropic for high performers and people working under pressure.
VyvaMind is undoubtedly one of the best nootropic supplements available in the market. Its all-natural formula has undergone years of refinement to achieve the fantastic version 4.2.1 that we have today. This brain booster is ideal for those who want to take their cognitive performance to the next level and reach their full potential.
Although VyvaMind only contains six ingredients, it is a powerhouse that effectively enhances focus, concentration, memory, motivation, mood, stress, anxiety, and energy levels.
Cons
- L-Tyrosine (300 mg)
- Citicoline (200 mg)
- L-Theanine (150 mg)
- Caffeine (75 mg)
- Vitamin B6 (2.5 mg)
- Vitamin B12 (50 mcg)
VyvaMind's ingredient list is seriously impressive, featuring standout components such as Citicoline, which is not commonly found in other nootropic supplements. This natural compound provides long-lasting energy levels that can significantly boost your focus and concentration. It's also believed to have significant benefits for long-term brain health.
With only 75mg of caffeine per serving, it's unlikely to leave you feeling jittery or anxious like some other brands. The addition of B vitamins is also a clever move that can improve memory, mood, and overall brain health.
L-Theanine and L-Tyrosine are also key ingredients in VyvaMind that have numerous benefits, including improved attention span, creativity, and a sense of calm focus.
Summary
VyvaMind is a top-tier nootropic supplement that is affordable and effective. Our testing and review of Vyvamind, found it to be perfect for anyone looking to elevate their cognitive abilities and achieve their full potential.
5. ProMind Complex - Best Nootropic For Memory
Created by Carl Henderson, this product has shown remarkable results in improving both short-term and long-term memory.
ProMind Complex is a powerful, all-natural supplement formulated to enhance cerebral health, increase memory retention, and elevate cognitive performance.
Designed to cater to individuals dealing with memory lapses, brain fog, and memory retention issues, ProMind Complex brings a new lease on cognitive life, especially to those who are battling age-related cognitive decline or neuronal dysfunction. It is a beacon of hope for those who want to regain their mental agility and say goodbye to distressing "senior moments."
ProMind Complex uses ingredients known for their efficacy in promoting brain health and enhancing memory function. These benefits include reducing cell death, lowering the risk of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's, and boosting the release of neurotransmitters responsible for memory and recall.
ProMind Complex is also unique in working to balance beneficial and harmful bacteria in the brain, which is crucial for optimal brain health.
Cons
- St. John's Wort (250mg)
- L-Glutamine (150mg)
- Phosphatidylserine (125mg)
- Bacopa Monnieri (120mg)
- Ginkgo Biloba (50mg)
- N-Acetyl L-Carnitine (50mg)
- Vinpocetine (2mg)
- Huperzine-A (10mcg)
Ingredients in ProMind Complex at the time of our review include L-Glutamine, Bacopa Monnieri Extract, Ginkgo Biloba, N-Acetyl L-Carnitine Hydrochloride, Vinpocetine, and Huperzine. Each of these ingredients plays a significant role in how the product works.
L-Glutamine enhances neural communication, reduces anxiety, and maintains brain function by lowering cortisol levels. Bacopa Monnieri Extract is clinically proven to boost memory, support memory retention, and help foster clear thinking. Ginkgo Biloba, combats free radicals, decreases brain damage, and enhances cerebral blood flow.
N-Acetyl L-Carnitine Hydrochloride is vital for a healthy brain, reducing inflammation and optimizing energy production. Vinpocetine increases brain blood flow, facilitates oxygen and glucose uptake, and enhances cerebral metabolism. Lastly, Huperzine serves as a neuroprotective agent, dispelling brain fog, increasing alertness, and fostering clear thinking.
Summary
ProMind Complex is the most effective product we've analyzed and tested as a memory enhancing nootropic. It's effective in boosting cerebral blood flow and slowing neurodegeneration. It also shows significant promise in its ability to guard against degenerative brain diseases like Alzheimer's and in sharpening memory. The supplement is effective in reducing the frequency of 'senior moments' by supporting clear thinking. With ProMind Complex, enhanced memory retention is no longer out of reach.
6. Mind Lab Pro
Mind Lab Pro by Opti-Nutra is a top-tier nootropic supplement that offers multi-pathway cognitive support.
Mind Lab's comprehensive formula combines several key ingredients to promote optimized brain regeneration and protection, as well as healthy neurotransmitter levels. Unlike many other nootropics that focus on only one or two cognitive aspects, Mind Lab Pro offers a "whole brain" solution.
Thanks to its scientifically-backed formula, Mind Lab Pro is one of the best-researched and most data-driven nootropic supplements on the market. Its powerful blend of natural ingredients has been carefully selected to enhance both short-term and long-term cognitive health.
So what can you expect from using Mind Lab Pro? For starters, the supplement aims to boost your memory and information recall, making it easier and faster to process and retain new information. It also promotes greater focus, clarity, and multitasking ability, helping you stay on top of your game. Mind Lab Pro also provides a clean and natural energy boost, without the use of stimulants. Its blend of natural ingredients helps improve energy, motivation, and mood, while keeping you calm and level-headed.
Cons
- Lion’s mane mushroom (500 mg)
- Citicoline (250 mg)
- L-tyrosine (175 mg)
- Brahmi herb (150 mg)
- L-theanine (100 mg)
- Phosphatidylserine (100 mg)
- Maritime or cluster pine (75 mg)
- Rhodiola rosea (50 mg)
- Vitamin B6 (2.5 mg)
- Vitamin B9 (100 mcg)
- Vitamin B12 (7.5 mcg)
Our Mind Lab Pro review found that it helps support neural plasticity and combat the natural cognitive decline that comes with aging. Its intelligent blend of 11 natural nootropics includes lion's mane, which promotes optimal NGF production for neural regeneration and maintenance, as well as citicoline, PS, bacopa monnieri, and maritime pine bark, all of which help slow cognitive decline, improve mental clarity, and enhance memory and learning.
The formula also includes both l-tyrosine and l-theanine, which work together to optimize mental performance, reduce the effects of stress and fatigue, and promote greater attention, focus and clarity.
Mind Lab Pro's solid vitamin B complex (including vitamins B6, B9, and B12) works together to improve mental performance, balance your mood, and promote long-term cognitive health, especially against age-related cognitive decline.
Summary
One standout feature of Mind Lab Pro is its inclusion of rhodiola rosea, a well-known herbal adaptogen. Rhodiola rosea helps maintain high levels of cognitive energy, reduces the effects of mental and physical stress, and enhances attention span, mental processing, and work capacity. With rhodiola rosea, Mind Lab Pro delivers clarity while keeping you calm and in a positive mood.
7. Kaged Mindset - Best Nootropic Drink
Kaged Mindset has entered the world of nootropics with an innovative product format, the nootropic drink.
Developed by Kaged, an elite supplement brand, Mindset stands out with its unique delivery format - a powder that mixes into a refreshing orange mango-flavored drink, offering a welcome alternative to conventional nootropic capsules.
Our Kaged Mindset review found its promises to skyrocket productivity, enhance attention, sustain focus, and sharpen working memory to be true. These claims, coupled with the fact that it's stimulant-free and devoid of banned substances, make it an appealing option, especially for athletes.
Cons
- AlphaSize Alpha GPC (1200mg)
- Cereboost® American Ginseng Extract (200mg)
- SunPS® Phosphatidylserine (100mg)
- Huperzine A (10mg)
- L-Tyrosine (1000mg)
- Ioniplex® Mineral Complex (100mg)
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine (1000mg)
- L-Phenylalanine (300mg)
- Vitamin C (150mg)
- B Vitamin Complex
The product's formulation is backed by scientific research, featuring carefully selected ingredients known for their cognitive-enhancing properties. AlphaSize Alpha GPC, Cereboost® American Ginseng Extract, SunPS® Phosphatidylserine, and Huperzine A are among the key ingredients that aim to improve cognitive function, memory, and learning. Other constituents such as L-Tyrosine, Ioniplex® Mineral Complex, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, and L-Phenylalanine are linked to improved cognitive performance, energy metabolism, and overall health. The inclusion of PureWayC® Vitamin C and a B Vitamin Complex further underscores Kaged's commitment to comprehensive health benefits.
In a DBEM study involving athletes, Kaged Mindset exhibited almost immediate impact, a stark contrast to other nootropics that often take days or sometimes weeks to yield perceivable improvements in cognitive performance. The non-caffeinated version provided an initial boost in focus and energy, lasting approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, while the caffeinated version extended these effects to 3-4 hours. It tastes great, is easy to mix and is great on-the-go.
Summary
Kaged Mindset has made a strong entry into the nootropic market. It delivers on its claims of enhanced attention, focus, and productivity while offering a refreshing, easy-to-consume alternative to traditional nootropic capsules. The product's science-backed formulation, coupled with the immediate effects observed in the study, positions it as a promising cognitive-enhancing supplement. While the memory improvement was not immediately evident, it could also yield long-term improvements in this area given the presence of ingredients known to enhance memory function.
8. Performance Lab Mind
Performance Lab Mind is an innovative nootropic that claims to not only enhance cognition but also aid in brain recovery from intense mental exertion.
Unlike many other nootropics, Performance Lab Mind aims to boost numerous performance-driven cognitive functions, including focus, speed, energy, memory, and motivation. It's also designed to combat stress burnout, promoting faster recovery and supporting long-term brain health.
The product works by encouraging blood flow to the brain, and promoting a flexible and healthy neural structure linked to memory and learning. The product also aims to restore brain chemicals, enhancing sharper bounce back from mental exertion while providing stim-free mental energy.
Cons
- Citicoline (250mg)
- Phosphatidylserine (100mg)
- L-Tyrosine (250mg)
- Maritime Pine Bark Extract (75mg)
The key ingredients include Cognizin® Citicoline, Sharp-PS® Green (Soy-Free) Phosphatidylserine, Ajipure® L-Tyrosine, and Maritime Pine Bark Extract. Citicoline, a versatile nootropic, aids in building and optimizing brain cell functions, raising acetylcholine to support learning, attention, and memory, and stabilizing brain cell membranes for healthy neural repair and function. Phosphatidylserine aids in the efficient function and long-range health of brain cell membranes, while L-Tyrosine and Maritime Pine Bark Extract contribute to brain health and mental clarity.
Summary
Our Performance Lab Mind review found that it stands out as a unique nootropic. It not only enhances cognitive functions but also supports the brain's recovery from mental exertion. Its blend of scientifically-backed ingredients and stim-free formula making it a suitable choice for a wide range of people. With consistent use, Performance Lab Mind is well formulated to support long-term brain health as well as providing more immediate improvements in cognition.
9. Thesis Nootropics
Thesis Nootropics offers a novel approach in the cognitive enhancement supplement space by prioritizing personalization.
Each user receives a tailored solution, designed to cater to their unique cognitive needs and preferences, setting Thesis Nootropics apart from most competitors. Backed by extensive experience and a vast database of nootropic research, they leverage scientific and data-driven methods to refine their formulas.
The personalization process is user-friendly, requiring no lab tests or detailed medical history. Customers fill out an online questionnaire, and based on this, they receive a tailored set of nootropic blends to sample before settling on a specific formula. The company also assigns a personal nootropics expert to each customer, serving as a guide to navigate and optimize the nootropic regimen. While the premium pricing may deter some potential customers, the extra cost supports this high level of personalized service and product customization.
Cons
- Lion’s Mane
- Epicatechin
- L-Theanine
- Forskolin
- Magnolia Bark Extract
- Sage Extract
- Choline
- TeaCrine
- Triacetyluridine
- Theobromine
- Panax Ginseng
- Ashwagandha
The company's nootropic blends cater to a variety of cognitive functions, including increased cognitive energy, enhanced mental clarity, improved memory and learning abilities, reduced brain fog, elevated mood, and stress reduction. The standout feature is the personalization, which allows users to optimize their cognitive enhancement based on individual needs.
While our Thesis Nootropics review has not conducted independent research on their nootropic blends, they do cite scientific papers in support of several ingredients used. These include Teacrine, Dynamine, Zembrin, Synapsa, Ashwagandha, and Alpha GPC. However, it's important to note that comprehensive evidence is lacking for many of the 30+ ingredients used across their range.
The company offers various blends, each targeting different cognitive aspects. These include the Energy blend (containing choline, NAC, NALT, Sabroxy®, TeaCrine®, Zynamite®, caffeine, and L-theanine), the Clarity blend (7,8-DHF, Alpha GPC, Epicatechin, Lion's Mane, caffeine, and L-theanine), and the Motivation blend (Artichoke extract, Dynamine®, Forskolin, L-phenylalanine, vitamin B12, caffeine, and L-theanine).
Summary
Thesis Nootropics offers a comprehensive, personalized cognitive enhancement solution. The higher price point may deter some, but the tailored approach and expert guidance could justify the additional cost for those seeking an advanced and individualized cognitive enhancement solution. While some ingredients lack comprehensive scientific evidence, the use of recognized nootropic components and personalized guidance may make this a suitable option for those looking to optimize cognitive function.
10. Onnit Alpha Brain
The combination of misleading claims and the use of opaque proprietary blends means Alpha Brain isn't one of our top rated nootropics, but it isn't terrible either.
Alpha Brain from Onnit has had a lot of high profile publicity, due to its link with Joe Rogan. For those that don't know, Joe Rogan is a well-known comedian, podcaster, and mixed martial arts commentator who has long been associated with Onnit, the company behind Alpha Brain. Rogan has been an outspoken advocate for Onnit's products and has helped to spread the word about their cognitive-boosting benefits.
However, Rogan has made many unsupported claims about the effectiveness of Alpha Brain and other Onnit supplements. Despite this, Alpha Brain remains a popular nootropic supplement that is believed to enhance cognitive function by many. But it's fair to say there are many better formulated products with proper scientific backing than Alpha Brain.
Cons
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCl)
- Onnit Flow Blend (650 mg): This proprietary blend consists of Bacopa Monniera Extract, Cat's Claw Extract (AC-11), Huperzia Serrata Extract, and Oat Straw Extract.
- Onnit Focus Blend (240 mg): This blend includes Alpha GPC, Bacopa Monniera, and Huperzia Serrata
- Onnit Fuel Blend (65 mg): This blend comprises L-Leucine, Vinpocetine, and Pterostilbene
- L-Tyrosine
- L-Theanine
- Phosphatidylserine
- Alpha GPC
- Bacopa Monniera
- Huperzia Serrata
- Oat Straw Extract
- Vinpocetine
- Pterostilbene
Our review of Alpha Brain found that it uses proprietary blends, which essentially mask the levels of ingredients used, making it impossible to know which ingredients are clinically dosed and which are there purely for marketing reasons. It's accurate to say that it's not possible for all the ingredients in Alpha Brain to be at clinically proven levels as the amounts of each proprietary blend used is declared.
Alpha Brain's ingredients include l-tyrosine and l-theanine, which help to raise levels of serotonin and dopamine in the body, thus improving cognitive abilities and cutting through brain fog and fatigue. Another important ingredient is oat straw extract, which improves blood flow to the brain and enhances oxygen and glucose delivery to keep the brain sharp and highly energized.
Alpha Brain also focuses on increasing the body's natural production of acetylcholine, an essential neurotransmitter involved in communication within the brain and between the brain and the rest of the body. This is achieved through a combination of Alpha GPC, bacopa, and phosphatidylserine, the latter of which is the only nootropic recognized by the FDA for boosting cognitive function.
Alpha Brain also contains huperzia serrata, which inhibits the production of the catalyst acetylcholinesterase to maintain higher levels of acetylcholine in the body. However, it's worth noting that some of the claims made by Alpha Brain may lack scientific merit, and the other ingredients may not offer any significant cognitive benefits.
Summary
Alpha Brain is a nootropic supplement that aims to improve cognitive function through a unique blend of proprietary supplements and natural ingredients. These supplements work together to optimize serotonin and dopamine response, increase levels of acetylcholine, and aid cellular communication, ultimately resulting in improved mood, energy levels, and faster, more focused thinking.
Some of the claims made by Joe Rogan and Onnit are baseless and some ingredients are proved at dosages too low to be effective. However, it's not a terrible product and some people will experience some cognitive benefits. In our testing, we have found better and cheaper alternatives to Alpha Brain.
Best Nootropic Overall
If you're interested in nootropics that support improved cognitive function, including memory, focus, and mental clarity, the best overall nootropic in our view is NooCube.
NooCube
4.9 / 5
Noocube is formulated to improve multiple aspects of cognitive function, including memory, focus, and mental clarity. It contains a wider range of ingredients than almost any other product, including Alpha GPC, Huperzine A, and Bacopa Monnieri, which have been extensively studied and shown to have significant cognitive benefits.
Overall, Noocube is our go-to all round top performing nootropic due to its well rounded ingredient profile and wide ranging performance and brain health benefits.
Conclusion
For those looking to improve multiple aspects of their cognitive performance and brain health, NooCube is our top recommendation. It contains a unique blend of clinically studied ingredients that have been shown to enhance memory, focus, and overall brain function [32,33]. NooCube also includes ingredients such as Bacopa monnieri, Huperzine A, and Oat Straw that have been shown to improve brain health and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline [34,35].
Our runner-up is well worth a strong commendation. Mind Vitality is a stand out performer. It's one of the most comprehensively formulated products currently available. If your priority is to supercharge your mental output and productivity it comes with our highest recommendation.
NooCube
BEST OVERALL
4.9 / 5 Stars
Mind Vitality
BEST FOR PRODUCTIVITY
4.8 / 5 Stars
Nooceptin
BEST FOR LEARNING
4.7 / 5 Stars
FAQs
Many nootropic ingredients and formulations have been shown to improve attention, memory, and learning, while others may promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety. For example, caffeine is a commonly used nootropic that can increase alertness and reduce fatigue, while L-Theanine, an amino acid found in tea leaves, has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Nootropics that contain natural ingredients and have undergone clinical testing are generally considered safe when used properly. It is important to follow recommended dosages and to avoid taking more than the recommended amount. It's also worth being aware of any potential side effects and if necessary consult with your doctor if you have any underlying medical conditions.
When taking a nootropic supplement, you should expect to experience some improvement in cognitive function, such as enhanced memory, concentration, and mental clarity. The effects of a nootropic will vary depending on the specific ingredients and dosage of the supplement, as well as individual factors such as age, overall health, and your lifestyle.
Popular nootropic supplements include NooCube, Mind Lab Pro, and Vyvamind. NooCube contains a blend of ingredients that may improve memory, focus, and overall cognitive function. Mind Lab Pro is designed to support brain health and cognitive performance through a variety of ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, and plant-based compounds. Vyvamind is a premium nootropic supplement that focuses almost exlcusively on cognitive function and mental performance. Read DBEM's guide to nootropics to see how the leading nootropic brands compare.
References
- Cognizin® Citicoline: Silveri MM, et al. Citicoline enhances frontal lobe bioenergetics as measured by phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy. NMR Biomed. 2008. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18666197)
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