Nootropics and adaptogens are all the range in the health and fitness genre right now. Recent research has shown they have benefits on the brain, including cognitive performance and stress relief. This is why nootropics and adaptogens are now included in many cognitive enhancer supplements.
But what are nootropics and adaptogens? Keep reading to learn more about these compounds and their benefits.
What Are Nootropics?
Nootropics are chemical compounds that enhance brain functions such as memory and cognition. The most widely known natural nootropics include caffeine, CDP-Choline, and Alpha-GPC.
When consumed, caffeine activates methylxanthine. Methylxanthine then activates arousal and improves performance, coordination, and memory.
CDP-choline and Alpha-GPC provide choline to the body. Choline is essential for brain function.
CDP-choline (also known as citicoline) is an endogenous substance that has been shown to repair and regenerate neurons in the brain. When taken in supplement form, it has a protective and stimulant effect on the brain.
Similarly, Alpha-GPC produces acetylcholine which is important for memory and learning. When consumed, Alpha-GPC has been found to improve focus and performance.
Other nootropic supplements include Adrafinil, Noopept, and Phenylpiracetam. These are powerful cognitive enhancer supplements that help with wakefulness, attention, and cognition. Many people buy adrafinil because it is one of the best nootropics for focus and concentration.
What Are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are substances that reduce stress and help the body stay in homeostasis. They are most commonly consumed through herbs and have been used in traditional Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.
Research shows that adaptogens have protective benefits for the brain. They also can reduce fatigue and depressive symptoms, and stimulate the central nervous system. Since adaptogens impact the brain, they are considered a type of nootropics.
Some common ingredients/foods that have adaptogen properties include ginseng, Bacopa Monnieri, Gogi Berry, turmeric, and various mushrooms such as lions mane.
Ginseng has been found to improve memory while increasing has a calming effect when consumed. Bacopa Monnieri increases synapse formation and stimulates protein-kinase activity– both important processes for memory, cognition, and focus. Gogi berry improves the function of neurons in the brain resulting in stress relief as well as improved memory and cognition.
Turmeric contains curcuminoids including curcumin. Curcumin is an antioxidant and has an anti-inflammatory effect. This means consumption of turmeric reduces inflammation and stress and promotes brain health.
The Point: Combining Nootropics and Adaptogens Can Improve Your Everyday Life
As you can see, nootropic and adaptogens have many, but different, benefits for the brain. Combining the best nootropics and adaptogens has the most effective and well-rounded impact.
Since nootropics are stimulating and adaptogens are calming, the combination creates a balanced mental state. This combination improves mental focus and alertness but does not cause stress or anxiousness like other types of stimulative supplements.
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