Category Archives: Nootropics

As we bridge the gap between late summer heat and sweater weather, October offers a multitude of fun dining and travel experiences around the Bay. This month, Napa has a new must-visit boutique inn; the amazing Hatch chiles of New Mexico take the spotlight in Calistoga; and 52 artsy bears are on view in Los Altos. Hurry before the real bears and the Bay Area hibernate for the winter.

Stroll around downtown Los Altos and discover all 52 fiberglass bears decorated by local artists like the Crazy Rich Bear presented by the citys legendary restaurant Chef Chus then bring one home by bidding on a bear. Proceeds from the auction, which closes on October 9 with the Hibernation is Over party, benefit the artists as well as charities selected by the Rotary Club of Los Altos.

If youre heading to the Napa Valley and want to change things up from the normal opulent resort stay, book one of the loft suites or the two-bedroom bungalow at the new R INN NAPA, an intimate boutique hotel that gorgeously strikes a balance of posh and hip modern.

With pumpkin-spiced everything around the corner, Pacific Catch (yes, a chain, but a good one!) keeps summer around longer with its Endless Summer menu. The tempting beach-evoking specials include ceviche tacos and plenty of tropical cocktails to celebrate those earlier sunset times.

Reach for the stars this fall with Montage Healdsburgs The Skys the Limit astrotourism package. For a cool $95,000, up to six guests can enjoy this dreamy opportunity that comes with private flights, two nights at the resorts three-bedroom Guest House and a tour of the Robert Ferguson Observatory.

If it seems like the Marina is peppier these days, thats because Balboa Cafe is selling cans of its beloved, zippy Espressotinis in 4-packs to sleepy, thirsty crowds.

Lets raise a glass to Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry, chef Michael Mina and Napa Valleys Gemstone Vineyard who together sold a $240,000 auction lot as part of the V Foundation Wine Celebration. The extravagant package, aptly named A Feast Fit for the Gods with Chef Michael Mina, included a night of fresh Greekinspired seafood from his newly opened Estiatorio Ornos, Gemstone library wines, spectacular jewelry and more.

Some red wine has been shown to help cardiovascular health, but happy hour isnt necessarily healthy hour. Thats why the new St. Hildies Botonica tincture tonic is quite exciting with its 5 percent buzz and various fresh fruits, herbs, adaptogens and nootropics. Its nearly virtuous and nearly all-local, as two of the three founders live in Marin County. Find it at The Junction in Mill Valley.

With Sunsets beautiful test gardens and the excellent Folktable restaurant, the Cornerstone complex in Sonoma already offers a reason to visit. Well, heres another (non-wine related!) one Cornerstones SBHG Gallery partnered with Oaklands SLATE Contemporary Gallery for a series of art exhibitions this fall, including the current Elements of Nature.

Fans of New Mexico Hatch chiles dont have to go to Santa Fe this month. Chef Trevor Logan of the House of Better (at Calistogas Dr. Wilkinsons Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs) offers freshly roasted New Mexico green-chile dishes and drinks on his special Chile Harvest Celebration menu each Sunday in October.

And, finally, the gorgeously renovated Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel may be over a century old, but it now boasts one of the chicest daytime eateries in the City. Fredericks is the hotels new breakfast and lunch restaurant, offering dishes like shakshuka with housemade lamb sausage from chef Daniel Corey (formerly of the Michelinstarred Luce).

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Of Note: Eat, Drink And Be Bear-y - Nob Hill Gazette

Lions Mane Mushroom is known for stimulating Nerve Growth Factor, improving cognition and memory, and relieving depression.

Lions Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is unique in the mushroom family both in appearance and function. Lions Mane Mushroom is extremely effective at stimulating Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in the brain.

Known for its powerful effects as a brain tonic, Lions Mane is said to have been used as a tea for thousands of years by Buddhist monks. To enhance brain power, and heighten their ability to focus during meditation.

Lions Mane as a nootropic, is a powerful catalyst for brain cell regeneration helping improve memory and cognition.

The primary active compounds in Lions Mane are hericenones and erinacines. Erinacineshelp your brain produce more Nerve Growth Factor. Erinacines easily cross the blood-brain barrier to boost the production of neurons.

Lions Mane helps:

Lions Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a medicinal mushroom proven to benefit the brain, nerves and immune system.

Unlike other mushrooms sporting a cap and stem, Lions Mane has long, flowing, white tendrils. Resembling a lions mane. Other names include Monkeys Head, Bearded Tooth, Pom Pom Blanc, Hedgehog Mushroom and Satyrs Beard.

This parasitic fungus grows hanging off logs and trees. And is native to North American, Europe and Southeast Asia. In Japan, its called yamabushitake or those who sleep in mountains. Referring to the Shugendo sect of hermitmonks and their long, flowing robes.

As a nootropic, Lions Mane has been shown to be particularly effective in stimulating Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in the brain.

NGF is produced in the hippocampus throughout life. Modulating cholinergic receptors and neuroplasticity.[i] And is essential for learning.

Nerve Growth Factor are special proteins that function to regenerate neurons. Lions Mane contains two unique classes of NGFs hericenones anderinacines which easily cross the blood-brain barrier.

Lions Mane, like other medicinal mushrooms, contain high amounts of the antioxidant beta-glucoxylan and four other polysaccharides and polypeptides. Having a significant impact on enhancing your immune system. And decreasing tumor growth.

Lions Mane has also been studied in reducing amyloid plaques. These clumps of beta-amyloid proteins block signals between neurons. And are implicated in Alzheimers and other neurodegenerative diseases.

Lions Mane is also used to treat Lymes Disease, and digestive tract issues.

Here were talking about Lions Mane Mushroom and its effects on brain health and chemistry.

Lions Mane boosts brain health and function in several ways. But two in particular stand out.

NGF is required by your brain to keep neurons strong and healthy. When various neurological disorders occur, your brain is unable to produce its own internal source of NGF.

In a study done in Kuala Lumpur in 2013, scientists showed that Lions Mane extract induced NGF synthesis and promoted neurite outgrowth.[ii]

A study by researchers in Japan worked with 30 women. The female subjects had been complaining about menopause, depression, sleep quality and other issues.

The women randomly received Lions Mane-laced cookies or a placebo for 4 weeks. The researchers found that Lions Mane has the possibility to reduce depression and anxiety, and these results suggest a different mechanism from NGF-enhancing action of H. erinaceus. [iii]

Science once believed that the brain could not grow new brain cells. That once our brain developed during childhood, and we reached adulthood, we had all the brain cells wed ever have.

Now we know that neurons can regenerate. But that doesnt mean they will regenerate. A number of health issues can contribute to neurodegeneration.

Decrease in Nerve Growth Factor = Decrease in Long-Term Potentiation affecting long-term memory[iv]

Brain cells die and are not replaced

Neuroplasticity declines resulting in poor memory

Neurotransmitters decline resulting in anxiety, poor mood and depression

All of these age-related changes are contributing factors to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimers, Parkinsons and others. And anxiety, depression and mood disorders that affect quality of life.

At least a dozen peer-reviewed studies have been published on Lions Mane benefits to brain health since 1991. Dr. Kawagishi of Japan was first to identify Nerve Growth Factor properties in Lions Mane Mushroom.[v]

In one double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, researchers in Japan worked with 50 80 year old men and women. All suffered from mild cognitive impairment.

The trial subjects received four 250 mg tablets containing 96% of Yamabushitake (Lions Mane) dry powder three times a day for 16 weeks. The men and women were tested at 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks.

At each of the testing periods, the subjects who had used Lions Mane showed a significant improvement in cognitive scores. And their scores were increasing while on Lions Mane supplementation. But 4 weeks after stopping Lions mane supplementation, their cognitive scores decreased significantly.

The researchers concluded that Lions Mane Mushroom is effective in improving mild cognitive impairment.[vi]

You may not experience the effects of supplementing with Lions Mane Mushroom immediately. But many users report with continued use of Lions Mane, a boost in mood and mental energy.

Some report it increases depth perception. And an improvement in sense of smell.

Others testify to improved decision-making, the ability to solve problems and learning. Likely due to Lions Mane ability to improve neuroplasticity.

The overall consensus is Lions Mane Mushrooms ability to lessen anxiety, reduce depression, and improve concentration.

Lions Mane Mushroom has been used as a food and herbal medicine since ancient times in East Asia. And it has been reported in scientific research that Lions Mane promotes Nerve Growth Factor both in the petri dish as well as in animal and human test subjects.

In this study, researchers examined the effects of Lions Mane on amyloid (25-35) peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice. Amyloid (25-35) peptide is implicated in diseases like Alzheimers.

Mice were injected with the peptide on days 7 and 14 of the trial. And they were fed a diet containing Lions Mane over 23-days of the experiment. The results showed that Lions Mane prevented short-term and visual recognition memory reduction normally induced by amyloid (25-35) peptide.

They concluded that Lions Mane Mushroom may be useful in the prevention of cognitive dysfunction.[vii]

In this trial, mice were fed Lions Mane 5% freeze-dried powdered extract for 7 days. Researchers found an increase in the level of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in the hippocampus of the mice. Concluding that Lions Mane contains active compounds that stimulate NGF synthesis.[viii]

In this study done with rats, Lions Mane extract was able to promote neuron regrowth after injury. Rats with gluteal nerve damage were able to walk again after consuming water containing Lions Mane extract.

The researchers concluded that Lions Mane regenerates damaged nerve cells. In this case, the reversal was so profound, the rats went from being totally disabled to walking again.[ix]

Wondering how much Lions Mane to take? Dosing of Lions Mane Mushroom depends on the strength of the extract.

For Lions Mane 10:1 extract (30% polysaccharide), daily dosage is 500 1,000 mg taken 1 to 3 times per day. This means that if you choose a daily dose of 1,000 mg of Lions Mane extract, you should take 500 mg in the morning, and another 500 mg at noon.

Other retail extract dosage of Lions Mane ranges from 300 mg to 3000 mg dosed 1 3 times per day. Check the label and see what the manufacturer recommends. And when first using the supplement, start with the lowest dose and see how your body reacts.

Lions Mane Mushroom is non-toxic and considered very safe. So there are very few side effects reported.

Some neurohackers report itchy skin from higher doses. Likely attributable to a boost in Nerve Growth Factor.

Lions Mane has been tested in animals showing no side effects or toxicity even up to 5 grams per kilogram.

Lions Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) as a nootropic supplement is usually offered as an extract. In powdered form, or in a capsule.

Lions Mane Mushroom can be found in some of higher quality pre-formulated nootropic stacks. For example, Mind Lab Pro contains 11 brain enhancing nootropic compounds including Lions Mane with the full fruit spectrum including hericenonesanderinacines.

I recommend Mind Lab Pro because it addresses all aspects of anxiety resistance, memory and cognitive enhancement, stabilizes mood, brain repair, and maintenance.

This premium nootropic stack is designed to affect neurotransmitters, cognitive energy, brain waves, neuroprotection, and regeneration. See my Mind Lab Pro review for a detailed report.

When choosing a Lions Mane supplement, theres debate over the best form of extraction to achieve the mushrooms full medicinal benefit. Some say your best option is a hot water extraction. Another says alcohol extraction. Another claims both are necessary.

But when it comes to mushrooms, saying that one is more potent than another is just too simplified to be true. This is as much an art as it is science.

Much more important is choosing a supplement that includes the myceliumof Lions Mane Mushroom. In this mushroom, the fruiting body does not contain erinacines which is the compound that boosts Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).

The nootropic benefits of hericenones only found in the fruiting body or top of the mushroom help support your immune system and get rid of Amyloid (25-35) peptide implicated in diseases like Alzheimers.

The challenge is getting a Lions Mane Mushroom extract that contains the full spectrum found in both the mycelium and fruiting body. But the mushroom must be grown in liquid and not a solid substrate like grain. Otherwise youll get ground up grain without the important erinacines needed for increased NGF.

Look at the manufacturers literature and marketing material and find out how their Lions Mane is grown. And read the reviews on shopping sites as well as forums.

Types of Lions Mane available:

And if you decide to pick your own, before consuming any wild mushroom, make sure that it is accurately identified. Mushroom poisoning is a real problem if you pick the wrong one.

For a full list of Mycology societies that may be able to help you, go to the North American Mycological Association website (www.namyco.org).

Lions Mane 500 mg per day

I recommend using Lions Mane as a nootropic supplement.

Your body does not make Lions Mane on its own. So you need to take it as a supplement.

Lions Mane is especially helpful for regenerating brain cells. It prevents neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimers and Parkinsons.

And it boosts long-term potentiation for memory and mental sharpness. By stimulating Nerve Growth Factor.

Lions Mane also helps boost mood, tame anxiety and relieve depression. For a better quality of life.

We suggest starting with a dose of 500 mg daily. The best human study used 3000 mg per day. But another researcher found lower concentrations may stimulate NGF better than higher concentrations.[x]

Start at 500 mg per day and see how it works for you. If you dont experience a benefit, boost Lions Mane in small increments of 250 mg per day until you notice an improvement. And make sure you are using a supplement containing the mycelium and fruiting body that isgrown in a liquid medium.

You can buy individual Lions Mane supplements. Or you could try my favorite pre-formulated nootropic stack Mind Lab Pro which includes the full spectrum including hericenonesanderinacines found in Lions Mane Mushroom.

Mind Lab Pro contains a synergistic blend of 11 brain enhancing nootropics covering all aspects of cognition and brain health. See my full Mind Lab Pro review for more.

Lions Mane is a great compliment to a nootropic stack including Aniracetam, Alpha GPC and Omega-3s for an immediate cognitive boost.

REFERENCES

[i]Conner J.M. et. Al. NGF Is Essential for Hippocampal Plasticity and LearningThe Journal of Neuroscience2 September 2009, 29(35): 10883-10889 (source)

[ii]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 Lions mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia.International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. 2013;15(6):539-54. (source)

[iii]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. (source)

[iv]Kelly A., Conroy S., Lynch M.A. Evidence that nerve growth factor plays a role in long-term potentiation in the rat dentate gyrus.Neuropharmacology. 1998 Apr-May;37(4-5):561-70. (source)

[v]Kawagishi H., et. Al. Erinacines A, B and C, strong stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF)-synthesis, from the mycelia of Hericium erinaceumTetrahedron LettersVolume 35, Issue 10, 7 March 1994, Pages 15691572 (source)

[vi]Mori K., Inatomi S., Ouchi K., Azumi Y., Tuchida T. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.Phytotherapy Research. 2009 Mar;23(3):367-72. (source)

[vii]Mori K., Obara Y., Moriya T., Inatomi S., Nakahata N. Effects of Hericium erinaceus on amyloid (25-35) peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice.Biomedical Research. 2011 Feb;32(1):67-72. (source)

[viii]Mori K., et. Al. Nerve Growth Factor-Inducing Activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1Human Astrocytoma CellsBiology Pharmaceutical BulletinSeptember 2008 31(9) 17271732 (2008) (source)

[ix]Wong K.H., Naidu M., David P., Abdulla M.A., Abdullah N., Kuppusamy U.R., Sabaratnam V. Peripheral Nerve Regeneration Following Crush Injury to Rat Peroneal Nerve by Aqueous Extract of Medicinal Mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae).Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2011;2011:580752. (source)

[x]Sabaratnam V., Kah-Hui W., Naidu M., David P.R. Neuronal Health Can Culinary and Medicinal Mushrooms Help?Journal of Traditional and Complimentary Medicine2013 Jan-Mar; 3(1): 6268. (source)

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Lions Mane Nootropics Expert

Natural, artificial, or technological alteration of the human body

Human enhancement (HE) can be described as the natural, artificial, or technological alteration of the human body in order to enhance physical or mental capabilities.[1]

Three forms of human enhancement currently exist: reproductive, physical, and mental. Reproductive enhancements include embryo selection by preimplantation genetic diagnosis, cytoplasmictransfer, and in vitro-generated gametes. Physical enhancements include cosmetics (plastic surgery & orthodontics), Drug-induced (doping & performance-enhancing drugs), functional (prosthetics & powered exoskeletons), Medical (implants (e.g. pacemaker) & organ replacements ( e.g. bionic lenses)), and strength training (weights (e.g. barbells) & dietary supplement)). Examples of mental enhancements are nootropics, neuro-stimulation, and supplements that improve mental functions.[2][3]Computers, mobile phones, and Internet[4] can also be used to enhance cognitive efficiency. Notable efforts in human augmentation are driven by the interconnected Internet of Things (IoT) devices,[5] including wearable electronics (e.g., augmented reality glasses, smart watches, smart textile), personal drones, on-body and in-body nanonetworks.[6]

Many different forms of human enhancing technologies are either on the way or are currently being tested and trialed. A few of these emerging technologies include: human genetic engineering (gene therapy), neurotechnology (neural implants and braincomputer interfaces), cyberware, strategies for engineered negligible senescence, nanomedicine, and 3D bioprinting.

A few hypothetical human enhancement technologies are under speculation, such as: mind uploading, exocortex, and endogenous artificial nutrition. Mind uploading is the hypothetical process of "transferring"/"uploading" or copying a conscious mind from a brain to a non-biological substrate by scanning and mapping a biological brain in detail and copying its state into a computer system or another computational device. Exocortex can be defined as a theoretical artificial external information processing system that would augment a brain's biological high-level cognitive processes. Endogenous artificial nutrition can be similar to having a radioisotope generator that resynthesizes glucose (similarly to photosynthesis), amino acids and vitamins from their degradation products, theoretically availing for weeks without food if necessary.

There are many substances that are purported to have promise in augmenting human cognition by various means. These substances are called nootropics and can potentially benefit individuals with cognitive decline and many different disorders, but may also be capable of yielding results in cognitively healthy persons. Generally speaking, nootropics are said to be effective for enhancing focus, learning, memory function, mood, and in some cases, physical brain development. Some examples of these include Citicoline,[7] Huperzine A, Phosphatidylserine,[8] Bacopa monnieri,[9] Acetyl-L-carnitine,[10] Uridine monophosphate, L-theanine,[11][12][13] Rhodiola rosea, and Pycnogenol which are all forms of dietary supplement. There are also nootropic drugs such as the common racetams Piracetam and Noopept (Omberacetam) [14][15][16] along with the neuroprotective Semax, and N-Acetyl Semax.[17] There are also nootropics related to naturally occurring substances but that are either modified in a lab or are analogs such as Vinpocetine and Sulbutiamine. Some authors have explored nootropics as relationship enhancements to help couples maintain bonds over time.[18]

Much debate surrounds the topic of human enhancement and the means used to achieve one's enhancement goals.[19] Ethical attitudes toward human enhancement can depend on many factors such as religious affiliation, age, gender, ethnicity, culture of origin, and nationality.[20]

In some circles the expression "human enhancement" is roughly synonymous with human genetic engineering,[21][22] but most often it is referred to the general application of the convergence of nanotechnology, biotechnology, information technology and cognitive science (NBIC) to improve human performance.[23]

Since the 1990s, several academics (such as some of the fellows of the Institute for Ethics and Emerging Technologies[24]) have risen to become advocates of the case for human enhancement while other academics (such as the members of President Bush's Council on Bioethics[25]) have become outspoken critics.[26]

Advocacy of the case for human enhancement is increasingly becoming synonymous with "transhumanism", a controversial ideology and movement which has emerged to support the recognition and protection of the right of citizens to either maintain or modify their own minds and bodies; so as to guarantee them the freedom of choice and informed consent of using human enhancement technologies on themselves and their children.[27] Their common understanding of the world can be seen from a physicist perspective rather than a biological perspective.[28] Based on the idea of technological singularity, human enhancement is merging with technological innovation that will advance post humanism.[28]

Neuromarketing consultant Zack Lynch argues that neurotechnologies will have a more immediate effect on society than gene therapy and will face less resistance as a pathway of radical human enhancement. He also argues that the concept of "enablement" needs to be added to the debate over "therapy" versus "enhancement".[29]

The prospect of human enhancement has sparked public controversy.[30][31][32] The main question to the ethical debate on human enhancement mainly involves whether there should be no restriction, some restrictions or a full ban to the entire concept.[33] Other

Dale Carrico wrote that "human enhancement" is a loaded term which has eugenic overtones because it may imply the improvement of human hereditary traits to attain a universally accepted norm of biological fitness (at the possible expense of human biodiversity and neurodiversity), and therefore can evoke negative reactions far beyond the specific meaning of the term.[34] Michael Selgelid terms this as a phase of "neugenics" suggesting that gene enhancements occurring now have already revived the idea of eugenics in our society. Practices of prenatal diagnosis, selective abortion and in-vitro fertilization aims to improve human life allowing for parents to decide via genetic information if they want to continue or terminate the pregnancy.[35]

A criticism of human enhancement is that it will create unfair physical or mental advantages, or unequal access to such enhancements can and will further the gulf between the "haves" and "have-nots".[36][37][38][39]

Futurist Ray Kurzweil has shown some concern that, within the century, humans may be required to merge with this technology in order to compete in the marketplace.[28] Enhanced individuals have a better chance of being chosen for better opportunities in careers, entertainment and resources.[40] For example, life extending technologies can increase the average individual life span affecting the distribution of pension throughout the society. Increasing lifespan will affect human population further dividing limited resources such as food, energy, monetary resources and habitat.[40] Other critics of human enhancement fear that such capabilities would change, for the worse, the dynamic relations within a family. Given the choices of superior qualities, parents make their child as opposed to merely birthing it, and the newborn becomes a product of their will rather than a gift of nature to be loved unconditionally.[41]

Human enhancement technologies can impact human identity by affecting one's self-conception.[42] The argument does not necessarily come from the idea of improving the individual but rather changing who they are and becoming someone new. Altering an individual identity affects their personal story, development and mental capabilities. The basis of this argument comes from two main points: the charge of inauthenticity and the charge of violating an individual's core characteristics.[42] Gene therapy has the ability to alter one mental capacity and through this argument, has the ability to affect their narrative identity.[42] An individual's core characteristics may include internal psychological style, personality, general intelligence, necessity to sleep, normal aging, gender and being Homo sapiens. Technologies threaten to alter the self fundamentally to the point where the result is a different person.[42] For example, extreme changes in personality may affect the individual's relationships because others can no longer relate to the new person.[39]

The capability approach focuses on a normative framework that can be applied to how human enhancement technologies affects human capabilities.[43] The ethics of this does not necessarily focus on the make up of the individual but rather what it allows individuals to do in today's society. This approach was first termed by Amartya Sen, where he mainly focused on the objectives of the approach rather than the aim for those objectives which entail resources, technological processes, and economic arrangement.[43] The central human capabilities include life, bodily health, bodily integrity, sense, emotions, practical reason, affiliation, other species, play, and control over one's environment. This normative framework recognizes that human capabilities are always changing and technology has already played a part in this.[43]

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Human enhancement - Wikipedia

Dawn Valandingham is a contributor to Supermarket News and senior vice president of retail at SPINS, a leader in data and retailer solutions for the natural products industry. She leads the SPINS Retail strategy, which includes innovative tactics around recruitment and retention of retail partners. Valandingham is also responsible for adding strategic partners that strengthen the SPINS ecosystem and reinforce its commitment to expanding and supporting the natural products industry.

Related: Wellness and weight control are top of mind for consumers

Were not in a post-pandemic world yet, but were also well beyond the confusing place we were in 2020. The question retailers should be asking isnt What does the future look like? but rather Whats happening right now that will still matter in 2022? Because Im lucky enough to not only have frequent conversations with retailers but also access to SPINS data, Im watching the natural market evolve in real time.

Related: SPINS: Consumers increasingly turning to health & wellness products during COVID

In 2021, the inescapable truth is that shoppers are already telling us what matters to them, and thats especially evident when you look at the products that theyre gravitating toward. Theyre doubling down on their commitment to health and wellness, but theyre doing so on their own terms. We know natural products have performed well throughout the pandemic, and now we can see what product attributes ingredients, label claims, allergen information and nutrition panel information are driving shoppers new approach to a better lifestyle.

Functional ingredients, which are ingredients that improve health and well-being, can be found as standalone vitamins and supplements or within a variety of foods and beverages. Shoppers once only sought out these items as pills or powders, but now manufacturers are finding innovative ways to offer them throughout the store. Head to any aisle and you can find packaging that boasts the inclusion of echinacea, Vitamin D, collagen and electrolytes on anything from kombucha to yogurt.

One specific subcategory youll want to keep your eye on is nootropics. Nootropic ingredients, including GABA, L-Theanine and Acetyl L Carnitine, enhance mental performance and focus. Although they are mostly found as supplements, nootropics are appearing in a variety of popular functional food and beverages (including salmon, eggs, soybeans and more). Based on data from the SPINS Natural Enhanced Channel, Regional & Independent Grocery and Conventional Multioutlet Channel (powered by IRI) for 24 weeks ending June 13, 2021:

You might think of performance nutrition as the domain of athletes and it certainly began with them but shoppers of all stripes have learned its value. Performance nutrition products seek to improve or address specific needs for physical activity, whether thats training for an ultramarathon, power lifting or simply hopping on your spin bike at home.

However, shoppers understand that nutrition isnt simply important when youre mid-workout; pre- and post-activity wellness matters, too. More shoppers are reaching for items that help with hydration and electrolytes, weight management and overall wellness.Consider that over a 12-week stretch, SPINS found that vitamins, minerals and supplements grew 2% in natural outlets and 32% in conventional retailers versus a year ago. Even more impressive was the growth Vitamin D saw: a 57% increase in natural outlets and 43% in conventional.These figures show how intertwined performance nutrition and functional ingredients are for consumers.

Shoppers enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, a beer at a barbecue or a nice cocktail at a party thats not going away. However, plenty of shoppers are finding ways to make happy hour a little healthier when possible. Alcoholic drinks (wine, ready-to-go cocktails and other drinks) had a strong year in grocery stores during lockdown, and natural options experienced a boost. However, plenty of shoppers are checking packaging for two numbers: calorie count and ABV.

As people continue to focus on overall health thanks to the ongoing pandemic, hope to shed a few COVID pounds or just want to make a lifestyle change, 0% ABV drinks are become bar staples for anyone who wants to enjoy something other than water at a social gathering. Similarly, calorie-conscious customers might not give up alcohol entirely, but they dont want to leave behind their fitness goals either. Thats why ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages are perfect choices: Their calorie counts are often clearly displayed on the packaging and they cover everything from wine to beer to cocktails. Plus, its easier to keep track of how much wine youre drinking when youre holding a can instead of a wine glass that can easily be refilled. The 0% ABV space is gaining enough traction that were starting to see exclusively non-alcoholic brands launching products; the earliest players in the space were alcohol manufacturers who added a non-alcoholic option to their product lineup. Today, its a growing mix of brands trying to grab the customers attention.

The common thread through all of these rising trends is that shoppers are making choices that fit within their lifestyle. The labels of good and bad foods have given way to good-for-me items. During assortment reviews or when assessing a categories performance, retailers need to address the needs of todays shopper seeking wellness offerings.

Read more here:

Shoppers are redefining what wellness means to them - Supermarket News

The pre-workout review is a top blog on the internet space, offering almost every piece of information anyone needs to have the perfect workout experience. They are committed to free and useful content on supplement, exercise and workout information. With a massive archive of ideas, tips, tutorials, guides, and reviews, there is no need to go anywhere else. Everything anyone needs to have a solid workout is right there.

The pre-workout review offers some of the best tips and guides to keep your body fit and healthy. Every detail on the platform is based on a combination of personal experience and professional insights. Browsing through the pages and content categories, the reader would know and feel the authors genuine intent to deliver authentic and practical information.

The vast knowledge of the authors on workout and pre workout supplements is exceptional and undeniable. He has spent a whole lot of time researching articles because he knows how important exercise is to the well-being of any human. At the preworkout review they are so dedicated to exercise and quality review on various pre workout supplements. They are fully committed to helping others learn about all the potential options and solutions with complete transparency.

The platform provides reviews on various pre work-out supplements from various companies like C4, Total War, Psychotic, PMP, Nuclear Armageddon, Nitraflex, Koala Freak and many others that are useful to exercise lovers, that give that extra drive that can help train longer and harder. The information provided by The PreWorkout Review on supplements has helped a lot by giving people the advantage they needed while working out.

The preworkout review has helped a lot by giving them the advantage they needed while working out. Their reviewed Products like Creatine, Citrulline, Beta Alanine, Nootropics, Black pepper extracts are good pre workout supplements for women while C4 products like C4 Extreme, C4 Sport, C4 Ultimate, C4 Original are all nutritious supplement that gives energy and also enhances pumps, muscular endurance which also gives them high rate of recovery. Without any doubt, working out is good for the body, it reduces the risk of heart attack, helps manage the weight better, helps in lowering blood cholesterol level and strengthens the bones and muscles but pre workout supplement gives you the endurance and right stamina needed for working out.

For more information visit: https://thepreworkoutreview.com/c4-pre-workout-review/

About Erick Racedo

He is the founder of The Pre-Workout Review. He started working out around early 2016, and it quickly became a passion for him.

After about a year of working out, he started looking at legal ways to get bigger and faster. Being a father, He had no interest in taking illegal and potentially harmful substances. His main interest has been and always will be to naturally build up his muscle mass and strength and shortly after looking for a solution to improve his workouts, he discovered pre-workout supplements. He noticed immediate improvement in his workouts and He started working out longer and harder than ever before, and it showed in the results he was getting. Because of the results he had with pre-workout, He had decided to start writing about the various supplements available on the market in detail. His articles have become helpful to a ton of people. He is dedicated to researching sports nutrition supplements and providing information to people who are interested in enhancing their exercise.

Media ContactCompany Name: THE PRE-WORKOUT REVIEW Contact Person: Erick SilvioEmail: Send EmailPhone: (312) 544-9909Address:5543 Edmonson Pike #275 City: NashvilleState: TN 3721Country: United StatesWebsite: https://thepreworkoutreview.com/c4-pre-workout-review/

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The Pre-Workout Review Provides The Platform To Help Fitness Lovers Make Purchasing Decisions Through Quality Information. - Digital Journal

In this press release, Nootropics Frontline is aiming to define the long-term mission statement of the company, which is to advance the technologies of neuro-enhancement and their accessibility in the civilization

Nootropics Frontline, a biotechnology company, has been long involved in the nootropic compound manufacturing & distribution market for individual scientists, private research laboratories, and global research universities all over the world. The companys field of business is in the developing and selling of nootropic substances used in scientific research studies neuro-enhancement.

Nootropics Frontline company is known for its quality and premium nootropic compound reference materials catalog, which are either manufactured by 3rd parties, who are extensively vetted through 3rd party analysis procedures, or manufactured exclusively by Nootropics Frontline research lab division. This year, in 2021, Nootropics Frontline was the first company to manufacture a compound Tabernanthalog to be sold as a reference material, which was pre-ordered by a number of private research laboratories, that were aiming to expand on the in vitro and in vivo research behind it.

In this press release, Nootropics Frontline is aiming to define the long-term mission statement of the company, which is to advance the technologies of neuro-enhancement and their accessibility in the civilization. I believe the market for cognition enhancement will play an incredibly important role in our society as it progresses through the automation of low-skilled jobs, thus the demand for having peak intellectual capabilities by humans is inevitably going to only increase. says Gintas Z., the Managing Director of Nootropics Frontline.

The cognitive enhancement market is already booming, and the United States military has been already researching ways for a long time to prevent their soldiers from losing their peak intellectual capabilities during combat in a foreign land. While many of the nootropic compounds are not yet allowed to be marketed for human consumption, they are purchasable for purposes of laboratory analysis and testing in rodents, because the demand by scientists to do research on them is increasing rapidly, as neuro-enhancement is a hot topic at the moment.

Nootropics Frontline claims that the cognitive enhancement market will continue to grow and that the company is committed to bringing cutting-edge nootropic compound manufacturing & productions standards to the market of scientific reference materials.

Media ContactCompany Name: Nootropics FrontlineContact Person: Karl GarethEmail: Send EmailPhone: +16182173533Country: United StatesWebsite: nootropicsfrontline.com

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A biotech company Nootropics Frontline is aiming to advance the weapons of cognitive enhancement - Digital Journal

It should go without saying that as long as you eat a well-balanced diet, you dont need supplements to support your training and racing, regardless of what exercise you like to do. However, theres also no doubt that supplements can make your life a lot easier in many situations, and if you use the right ones at the right times they can help to boost your performance.

The quickest way to assess which are the most effective supplements is to find out what pros with access to the best support teams and the latest science are using. From there you can pick out what might work for you as an amateur keen on improving without necessarily going to quite the same extent as the pros.

To get the inside scoop on the supplements strategies of the pros we spoke to Professor James Morton, who is director of performance solutions at sports nutrition brand Science in Sport and was previously head nutritionist at Team Sky, as part of the launch for a new range called Beta Fuel.

It depends on the team, and the culture and the philosophy of the team, but from my experience of the peloton and my knowledge of World Tour teams, cyclists use a variety of supplements almost daily. Supplements can be used before training, during training, after training, with main meals and before sleep.

Most teams now would probably have some form of protein supplementation before or during the ride, usually in the form of a whey protein drink. They might have some protein at breakfast, or they might have it in a bottle on the bike.

At breakfast, they may also use some vitamin and mineral supplements, and some electrolytes for hydration, and maybe even some caffeine supplements before the ride starts.

During the ride itself, it depends on the duration and the intensity, but they might have protein within the first 60 to 90 minutes. If it is a higher-intensity ride theres more emphasis on carbohydrates usually between 30g to 90g per hour in the form of drinks, gels and solid foods. Caffeine normally is used around 30 to 45 minutes before you need its desired effect, so it could be 30 to 45 minutes before a hard interval session or a hard climb.

The daily protein requirements are probably around 30g every three to four hours. A long ride could be six hours long. If you have your breakfast at 8am and start your training at 10am, then you might not be home until 4pm. Youve effectively gone the whole day under-consuming protein. Then you start to degrade your own muscle protein stores. Consuming protein during exercise protects against that.

It all depends on the ride and the goal of the ride, but usually riders start with solid foods for the first two or three hours things like homemade rice cakes, energy bars, bananas, small sandwiches or panini. They tend to be digested slightly more slowly.

Then as they reach the second half or final third of the ride when the intensity starts to pick up, riders will switch towards more gels. Sometimes the fuelling strategy might be entirely based on fluids, if we havent got time to physically unwrap food and want to have access to carbohydrate as quickly as possible, or if its a really hot race. Thats why we made the Beta Fuel drink, which is 80g of carbohydrate in a 500ml serving, equivalent to four rice cakes.

The traditional ratio is 2:1 of maltodextrin to fructose. Thats widely studied. But actually, if you change the ratio to 1:0.8 [as in Beta Fuel], it allows you to utilise more of the carbohydrate that youve ingested. So in other words, more of the carbohydrate is actually delivered to the muscles and used to produce energy. The phrase we use is oxidation efficiency.

More often than not theyll consume a recovery drink within minutes of finishing the ride. And then usually 45 to 60 minutes later they will have whole foods for recovery.

Id probably go back to basics and make sure that you have some form of protein supplementation available to help top off your daily protein requirements and aid recovery during your training schedule. Thats normally whey protein, but of course if you want to use plant proteins you can do so. Then on the carbohydrate side, its about having access to fluids, gels and energy bars.

Carbohydrates and protein are the key supplements for pro and amateur riders alike, but there are several others to consider. We asked Morton to give the details on some other commonly used supplements.

There are several electrolytes, but sodium is the most important one its the predominant one that we lose in our sweat. So electrolyte supplementation before and after exercise is especially important, especially on a hot day when your sweat rate has increased.

Nootropics is a term for compounds that can enhance cognitive function. Caffeine is essentially a nootropic, as are other ingredients like theanine and taurine. Its a broad term for anything that can improve cognitive function. That means reaction times, your ability to make decisions, memory, focus, alertness and so on.

Beta-alanine and sodium bicarbonate are designed to act as buffers against the metabolic acidosis that you get in high-intensity exercise. They effectively allow you to ride at a certain power output for longer.

You would take sodium bicarbonate around 70 to 90 minutes before a hard training session, especially if its an interval session. Professionals would also take it before time trials or even during the race itself, around 60 to 90 minutes before a hard climb or a hard stretch of the race.

Beta-alanine is a supplement that you take daily to load within the muscle. Take around 3-6g a day for at least four weeks before your event or consistently during training.

Creatine will help generate energy for high-intensity exercise and also improve recovery in between repeated sprints. Its traditionally thought of as something used to build muscle for strength or power sports, but it has been proven to help any time that you want to produce force quickly and repetitively. For example,on a 45-minute climb with repeated attacks, creatine could potentially help improve power output.

You normally load creatine and theres two ways to do that: 20g per day for five days, or 3g per day for 30 days.

We spoke to Professor James Morton as part of the launch of the new Beta Fuel range, which includes drinks, gels and chew bars with carbs in a 1:0.8 maltodextrin to fructose ratio

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Cycling Supplements: What Amateurs Can Learn From The Pros - Coach

Global Nootropics Brain Supplements Market Research Report 2020-2026 published by Market Research Place put forth a systematic evaluation of the industry and main market trends with historical and forecast market data, demand, application details, and price trends by geography. The report will function as a medium for a better assessment of the existing and future situations of the global Nootropics Brain Supplements market. The report splits the market size, by volume and value, based on application, type, and geography. This report also studies the market status, competition landscape, market share, growth rate, future trends, market drivers, opportunities and challenges, sales channels.

The report covers the major competitors within the market as well as budding companies along with their comprehensive details such as market share on the basis of revenue, demand, high-quality product manufacturers, sales, and service providers. Key players have executed different kinds of development systems, for example, advancements, and acquisitions to reinforce their contributions to the lookout. The examination incorporates an investigation of these central participants in the global Nootropics Brain Supplements market with their organization profiles, ongoing turns of events, and key market techniques.

The research report provides an in-depth examination of the market scenario regarding market size, share, demand, growth, trends, and forecast for 2021-2026. The global Nootropics Brain Supplements market overview, product overview, market segment analysis, regional market overview, market dynamics, limitations, opportunities are just some of the topics covered in this report. Also includes the analysis of industry chain, competition landscape, historical and future data by types, applications, and regions.

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NOTE: COVID-19 is significantly impacting the business and global economy in addition to the serious implications on public health. As the pandemic continues to evolve, there has been a serious need for businesses to rethink and reconfigure their working modules for the changed world. Many industries around the world have successfully implemented management plans specifically for this crisis. This report gives you a detailed study of the COVID-19 impact of Nootropics Brain Supplements market so that you can build up your strategies.

Geographically, this report is segmented into several key countries, with market size, growth rate, import and export of in these countries, which covering:

U.S., Canada, Germany, France, U.K., Italy, Russia, China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Southeast Asia, Mexico, and Brazil

The Report Provides Comprehensive Analysis of:

The report presents real data and statistics on the inclinations and improvements in the global Nootropics Brain Supplements market. It also highlights manufacturing, abilities & technologies, and the unstable structure of the market. The report elaborates the crucial data along with all important insights related to the current market status. The report demonstrates details of different sections and sub-sections of the market on the basis of topographical regions. The report contains a detailed analysis of the key elements such as developments, trends, projections, drivers, and market growth of the global Nootropics Brain Supplements market.

Key strategic manufacturers included in this report:

The market can be segmented into product types as:

The market can be segmented into applications as:

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The next section of the report carefully assesses the presence of the market in key regions. It determines the market share, the market size, the sales contribution, and the distribution channels of each regional segment. It also offers details of the factors directly impacting the growth of the market. It covers the fundamental ideas related to the growth and the management of the global Nootropics Brain Supplements market.

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Global Nootropics Brain Supplements Market 2021 Research Report With COVID-19 Update with Growth Analysis and Emerging Trends by 2026 26 Sports - 2x6...

New research shows that women are logging more hours virtually, but taking fewer breaks, and distractions are at an all-time high. Here, expert tips for managing mounting tasks without letting our minds go astray.

Nootropics, or smart drugs, are supplements that are said to improve cognitive function like memory, creativity or motivation, explains holistic health practitioner Dr. Shari Auth. DJ, socialite and podcast host Paris Hilton says she grabs a botanical supplement made of L-theanine, valerian root and ahiflower to stay alert: A morning must-take for me is R3SET CALM ($18) so I can stay focused throughout the day. I take two and am more focused and less stressed. I feel empowered because Im doing something good for my mind and body.

Make a daily to-do list with the priorities at the top, recommends New York neuropsychologist Sanam Hafeez, MD. Make sure not to let yourself get too hungry or too tired as you cross things off the list, as both can impede focus. Clear your workspace of clutter and distractions. Lastly, set a SMART goalone that is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely. Focus on paying attention to your thoughts and emotions without judgment. At the end of the day, celebrate your wins. The idea is to remain in the present and not rehash the past or forecast the future.

For Tracy Otsuka, host of the ADHD for Smart Ass Women podcast, modern technology is the key to success. The best piece of tech I have ever used to help me stay organized and focused is my Apple watch, but the most useful app has to be the Bear app. I can never remember where I filed anything, and looking for something can take up a lot of my time. With Bear, I can save everything from paint colors I used on my sons room five years ago, to podcast ideas, recipes, photos and emailsmy whole life. When you need something, you just type in a few words and it searches the app to find what you need in an instant.

According to holistic healer Hope Gillerman, how we schedule our aromatherapy is just as important for brain function as how we schedule our daily caffeine intake. In the morning, inhale daytime essential oils. I recommend peppermint, which we often associate with toothpaste and waking up. For lunch, citrus oils are revitalizing. Like adding lemon to water, lemon essential oil refreshes us. A thinking oil like eucalyptus can also help with brain fog. At the end of the day, switch to lavender to relieve stress and promote sleep.

Setting boundaries is number one, says Chillhouse founder Cyndi Rameriz-Fulton. I need to set aside long hours or even days to get some meatier work done, versus the day-to-day inbound work that ends up eating my time. My biggest strategy to getting this type of work done is giving myself full days with no meetings or anything on the calendar. Fully uninterrupted, open days are the ones where I feel the most productive.

Dr. Auth, founder of WTHN, uses an ancient Chinese practice involving ear seeds ($45), which she says can alter brain chemistry via neural pathways. You just place the seedsthey come in silver, gold or Swarovski crystalon one of the dozens of points in the ear that are connected to different parts of the body. There is a brain point on the ear, and placing a seed there on both ears is great for focus and concentration. Itll work on its own, but you can also push on it to get it an extra little boost. You can leave it on for three to five days to feel the full effects.

Like a Peloton class for the easily distracted, the All Day Dreaming club on the Clubhouse app has become a hub of productivity for those craving daily structure and support. Using a time management technique called The Pomodoro Method, it involves blocking out a 25-minute interval of heads-down, interruption-free work followed by regular breaks. Like-minded users convene to keep each other accountable on their daily tasks, with 25-minute check-ins to remind one another to take their break before the next block starts.

Set a timer for everything, even shower, time says Otsuka. This is something that has cut an extra half an hour out of my day. The hot water increases our creativity, which raises dopamine levels, which is why we want to stay in there so long. It can quickly become a 45-minute shower, but easily feel like five. I also have a timer on my makeup mirror where I get ready because I find myself getting lost in the moment and all of a sudden losing time.

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8 Tips to Increase Focus and Productivity Today - NewBeauty Magazine

While convenient packaging formats and premiumization have been driving changes in the beverage market, functional offerings are the latest consumer demand driving some of the biggest change, as consumers look for beverages that can improve their daily health in convenient formats, while catering to their active routines.

Thirty-five percent of consumers are turning to beverages as a way to incorporate functional ingredients into their diets, according to PMMI Business Intelligences new report 2021 Beverage Trends Driving Change. And beverages that regulate mood, improve mental fitness, and promote physical performance are becoming increasingly popular with consumers.

In addition, consumers want to consume these offerings in convenient formats such as single-serve and ready-to-drink (RTD) packaging. These categories are experiencing robust growth, with RTD beverages slated to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% over the next five years, and functional beverages expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.6% in the next five years. We continue to seek new flavors, healthier ingredients, and new packaging for greater consumer appeal to meet increasing competition, said one Packaging Engineer.

Smaller sizes and easily consumable formats provide added convenience to consumers, but they often create new challenges for beverage manufacturers. To keep up with demand for these products, beverage producers often have to run at higher rates of efficiency - higher speeds, maximized uptime, continuous production, or a combination of all of these factors.

Functional Offerings

Beverages that regulate mental faculties (called nootropics) and beverages that help balance physical body functions (such as prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics) are growing in popularity. A recent survey found that 24% of consumers are specifically turning to food and beverages as a source of probiotics in their diets. And while the digestive health market is currently five times larger than the brain health market, the category of nootropics is rapidly gaining traction and has significant room to grow. To incorporate these new functional aspects into beverages, manufacturers are introducing new ingredients or even entirely new offerings into their portfolios. In many cases, new ingredients necessitate packaging alterations for better preservation, as they are often more sensitive to environmental factors.

Changes in thickness, opacity, chemical composition, or even entirely new materials may require adjustments to production setup. Much like sustainability initiatives, these packaging changes are ongoing and dynamic, and have pushed beverage manufacturers to seek out machines that are highly flexible to accommodate current and future changes to the size, shape, and composition of packaging materials. In addition to packaging, some of these ingredient formulations and new product offerings create new ranges of viscosity and acidity for beverage manufacturers to contend with as they transition from one recipe to another.

Said one Packaging Manager of Food Safety and Innovation, We need our OEMs to be able to evaluate the entire line instead of one piece of equipment at a time, offering turnkey solutions that reduce manual labor and manual errors.

Premiumization

Some beverage manufacturers are seeking to give their products a premium look and feel by using glass or metal, or with novel shapes and closures. In addition, manufacturers are using labeling as a way to convey premiumization: high gloss/high color offerings, intricate label art produced by known artists, and limited time or collectible labels are all being utilized for these new offerings. Glass is still in demand for premium products, even though freight costs are variable as the price of oil is increasing; some customers are moving to cans to reduce costs, said one Co-Packer CEO.

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Source: PMMI Business Intelligence, 2021 Beverage Trends Driving Change

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Ready-to-Drink Functional Beverages the Latest Growth Market - Packaging World