In 2021, one in four people quit their jobs. From burnout, to Zoom fatigue, adjusting to the New Normal and the Great Resignation, it’s no wonder many Americans are suffering from anxiety, brain fog and depression.
What we are all experiencing in some way, shape or form needs to be fixed. I’m not talking about “pivoting”; it’s about addressing more than just the symptoms by tackling the issue head-on. Literally, I’m talking about your brain.
Nootropics, or otherwise known as “brain drugs” are having a moment right now. The word “nootropiic” derives from the Greek word “noos” (mind) and “tropein” (towards).These non-prescription, memory-enhancers boost your brain’s performance. This can include numerous mental functions such as memory, creativity, motivation and attention.
Brain Benefits
Nootropics have been proven to boost brain function and strengthen overall brain health. When you start supplementing with nootropics you increase the blood and oxygen flows to the brain and at the same time provide it with important nutrients.
Brain Functions
Compared to other cells in the body, neurons cannot be reproduced and are irreplaceable (bummer, I know). Your neurons are hard at work burning energy to maintain the repair of the cell compartments. Nootropics cause reactions for different mechanisms. Nootropics alter the concentration of existing neurotransmitters. Studies have shown they stimulate the release of dopamine, uptake of choline, cholinergic transmission and turnover of phosphatidylinositol.
Types of Nootropics
There are two broad categories of smart drugs.
Prescription - This includes Ritalin and Adderall prescriptions commonly prescribed as ADHD medications. These medications work by increasing levels of dopamine ( the feel-good neurotransmitter) resulting in increased energy and alertness. Also, medications like Mematine for Alheizmers or Modafinil for Narcolepsy. All of the above may cause side effects and should be prescribed by a medical doctor.
Synthetic & Natural compounds - This category can include natural or synthetic compounds that are available over-the-counter. From Creatine, which can augment mitochondrial function, to Omega-3s that can protect the brain against aging and even that good old cup of joe in the morning (yes, caffeine is a nootropic too). These substances all produce different functions so cognitive benefits will vary from person to person.
Getting Started
Taking multiple nootropics at once is called a “stack”, and combining different compounds can have a synergistic effect. Building your nootropic stack takes time and may require some experimenting with different compounds and combos at different times of the day.
For example, you may start your nootropic journey with CDP choline. However, when taken with Uridine, the two work together with DHA to increase phosphatidylcholine formation and improve cognitive function. This is why I like to take my morning stack of Alpha GPC and Uridine with an Omega-3 fatty acid (aka DHA).
Another popular stack is Theacrine and L-Theanine with the former stimulating mental focus and motivation while the latter smooths out any feelings of anxiety associated with the popular caffeine substitute.
You can try our two most popular bundles together in the Beginner Nootropic Stack bundle. These four nootropics are mild but effective, making them popular introductory stacks for people new to using nootropics.
Helpful Tips
- Do your research
- Consult your doctor before starting any supplement regime
- Take breaks
- 4 days on, 3 days off
- 3 weeks on, 1 week off
- Keep track of when you add, remove or make changes to your stack
- Always ensure you are taking supplements from a trusted source that can provide third-party analysis and are GMP-certified like Double Wood Supplements