Category Archives: Nootropics

Is the snack aisle the new skin care store?

From cookie dough with adaptogens to chips with marine collagen and protein bars with nootropics, the lines between the beauty and food and beverage industries are becoming increasingly blurred.

Foods and beverages, once the purview of grocery store shelves, are borrowing ingredients from skin care formulas to provide a wealth of additional benefits, creating a new generation of functional foods that claim to have a positive effect on health beyond basic nutritional benefits.

No wonder. According to Grand View Research, the global functional foods market size is projected to reach $275.8 billion by 2025, a market being driven by next-generation companies that are creating easy access to well-curated and sourced ingredients as consumers gain knowledge of ingredients once considered esoteric or relegated to the supplements aisle.

A 2019, a study by NPD found a quarter of U.S. adults are actively using food to manage their health and consumers increasingly are cutting out foods they think could have a detrimental effect on their long-term health, like sugar, sodium and dairy. Among the emerging medicinal foods NPD tracks, consumers are most interested in trying ingredients like elderberry and ashwagandha.

Food has always been this place where it fills you and supplies you with fuel, said Rachel Krupa, founder of The Goods Mart and Krupa Consulting. With the explosion of functional foods, it is only going to be more exciting as the category evolves to make sure that its also effective. Were all multitasking and we all know that beauty and wellness comes from the inside out.

Five years ago, the grocery store looked so different, agreed Leland Drummond, the cofounder of Azione, a PR agency that has represented an array of functional food brands and has seen firsthand the proliferation of these products. Now there are probiotic drinks. There are a million different kinds of milk. There are a million different kinds of eggs and plant-based meats. The supplement aisles are extreme revenue drivers and once you can combine the power of that with the power of CPG, the sky is the limit.

Already, cutting-edge food retailers are reporting a boom in the category. The biggest thing from the nutrition world that has made it mainstream now is adaptogens, said Jason Widener, vice president of Erewhon, a Los Angeles-based chain of healthy food markets and cafs that now has six locations there. Mushrooms turkey tail, chaga, reishi I remember probably 11 years ago when I was working at Erewhon at the tonic bar, nobody sold mushrooms. If you said you sold dried mushrooms, theyd think youre doing hallucinogenics.

Widener sees no signs of the juggernaut slowing. RTD [ready-to-drink] non-alcoholic brands and snacks made with adaptogens and herbs are definitely the trend, Widener said. Half the products I receive for review are peppered with these functional ingredients and there is more competition than ever. Widener has seen brands like Kin Euphorics, Moon Juice and many small snack companies like the French Squirrel grow rapidly. He noted that Kin, for example, has doubled in sales.

Functional foods are doing exceptionally well at New York City-based better-for-you convenience store, The Goods Mart, too. Customers are pulling them off the shelf to read about their ingredients, Krupa said.

Brands that are standouts at The Goods Mart include Olipop, a prebiotic and botanical soda to support digestive health; Pop & Bottle, oat milk lattes with antioxidants, collagen and adaptogens, and Gwell, snackable bites like Reishi & Chaga Tea Cookies and Golden Tumeric and Coconut Granola Clusters that contain ingredients said to help with hormonal and skin issues, stress and restlessness.

Gwell is the brainchild of Fawziyya Sugai, who created the brand after struggling withfibroids and endometriosis. After her coworkers started asking for the products she was making, she realized that those surrounding her were also dealing with fatigue and stress and similar issues.

Prior to starting, Gwell, Sugai and her sister created a website centered around natural beauty on a global scale. It was through her travels that she learned about ingredients like ashwagandha and maca, among others and decided to infuse them into her baked goods. We dont brand ourselves as a health product, she said. They are indulgent treats that happen to have wellness benefits.

Education is an important factor for Gwell. The brand highlights the cultural elements of each ingredient and where it originated. Our mission is to help people feel better, but its also to help improve food equity, Sugai said. We focus in on the key markets that our customers are in and where we do business. So New York, California, Illinois and the DMV [D.C., Maryland and Virginia] area. And then we partner with local organizations there specifically around their initiatives.

Gwells latest launch is its chocolate maca granola. The key ingredients are maca root and adaptogens, Sugai said. A serving includes the same amount that you would get in a typical supplement. With our snacks, we home in on focus, energy, stress relief and immune support because those are the key things people struggle within our community. So every single Gwell bite that we have is designed around providing one or more of those specific benefits.

That level of education is key, said Krupa, to making the category better understood. We have to make sure that we omit the smoke and mirrors and that the actual products that are entering into the marketplace are efficacious, so you see results, she said. When were speaking to the founders of the brand, we ask how much of this ingredient is actually in it? Am I going to be able to feel it? In order for the category to continue, the products need to show the results that are being communicated to the customer.

Another brand looking to disrupt notions around food is Phasey, a line of functional pantry staples that are geared towards improving reproductive and sexual health. Products include period or sex chocolates, $7 per piece, and flaxseed blends, $12. The world and society taught us to feel bad about our reproductive health, about our periods, about sex, and Phasey is here to undo that, said the brands founder Asha Carroll. It was my vision to build a broader brand around the ups and downs of our cycles of phase by phase where we could create an open and honest dialogue about the hormonal roller coaster of our lives.

Carroll believes consumers reasons for consuming such foods are evolving. Its beyond fuel; its beyond pleasure, she said. While the supplement industry is continuing to grow at a breakneck pace, consumers are looking for something to shake up the monotony when it comes to the day to day.

Phasys latest launch is Neato Instant Mood Milk, $38, which comes in three flavors and is designed to support better periods and libido. Its the brands nostalgic take on Nesquik, but made with hemp heart protein, which Carroll said is different from hemp protein less grainy and not earthy in flavor. Phasey is sold at more than 200 retailers across the U.S., including Erewhon, Urban Outfitters, Foxtrot and Amazon.

Another brand forging a new path is Deux Enhanced Cookie Dough. During COVID-19, Deux founder Sabeena Ladha was taking a slew of supplements like elderberry, vitamin C, zinc and vitamin D, to name a few, and wanted a solution that fused immunity with a healthy indulgence. Deux was her answer. The vegan and gluten-free cookie dough is available in flavors like chocolate chip, brownie batter and peanut butter. Each is infused with ingredients like zinc and elderberry for immune support, aloe vera and vitamin C for collagen support, ashwagandha for stress relief and pea protein. There are three pillars that we try to essentially have our products fall into, Ladha said. Its mind, body and spirit. We try to infuse mental health with feeling good about what you eat.

Deux, $15 a jar, is sold in Erewhon and will launch in select Whole Foods in early 2022. The brand will also premiere tonight on Shark Tank. Looking toward the future, Deux is bringing back its healthy Nutella with hazelnuts and aloe vera and is looking to get into more snackable products. According to industry experts, Deux will do $1 million in its first year.

Another brand that is being marketed in the wellness sphere is Goodfish, upcycled salmon skin protein chips, which contains 2,600 mg of marine collagen. Theres a lot of parts of the fish that are underutilized or misunderstood by the U.S. audience. And in our case, it was the skin, said Justin Riboud, cofounder of Goodfish. What you ingest can be reflective of your skin and its essentially nourished by your food, your lifestyle, quality of life and sleep patterns.

The mission of Goodfish is to make an easy-to-eat product and something relevant to a consumers diet. We believe there are many more sophisticated products that can be developed and we have a supply from a sustainable, transparent source and the ability to convert that into the number of adjustable products that have benefits, whether theyre ingestible or whether thats topical with marine collagen. You look at Moon Juice or you look at Goop and you quickly realize there should not be a distinction. Its the same consumer trying to seek out the same benefit from a variety of different sources. So from where we stand, were focused on quality of marine collagen, and were focusing on how it can be best consumed, starting with this approach with a snack and growing into a number of different avenues.

Meanwhile, traditional protein bars are getting a makeover, too, with adaptogens and nootropics. Smpl, which launched in October, is the brainchild of Ellis Fried, who started Smpl when he was in college, looking for a way to improve his health, energy and productivity levels. After endlessly researching, trial and error and experimentation, Fried created four bars, each delivering a different benefit, including energy, focus, immunity and calm.

Consumers are looking for more accessible ways to consume these tried and true, wellness enhancing ingredients, he said. Food and beverage is a very easy way to get these health benefits. Were focused on building a portfolio of functional products that are specifically formulated for unique health benefits from morning to night. The bars are a great vehicle for these kinds of ingredients and for the mass consumer because a variety of Americans might not be able to have 10 to 12 different powders on their counters at all times.

Smpl, $30 for 12 bars, is sold online on its website and is focused on its subscription model. Each of our bars were created so that you could have up to three or four per day to reach a max level of ingredients, Fried said. So looking at each one as a microdose. If youre looking at our energy product, for example, its as much caffeine as an espresso shot from green tea and ginseng, while our immune bar has as many probiotics as a kombucha.

Krupa agrees. Were going to see a continued explosion within the category, she said. We dont have to use the ingredients that our parents once used because we now have the innovation and technology to be functional.

Deux: Founded by Sabeena Ladha, Deux is a vegan, gluten-free, and healthy yet indulgent cookie dough that includes flavors like chocolate chip, brownie batter and peanut butter. Each is infused with ingredients like zinc and elderberry for immune support, aloe vera and vitamin C for collagen support, ashwagandha for stress relief, and pea protein. $15.

Gwell: With a goal of making wellness more approachable, founder Fawziyya Sugai created Gwell bites with selected ingredients to help with hormonal and skin issues and stress. From granola with maca for hormones to tea cookies with reishi and chaga for stress relief and relaxation, each snack is meant to deliver a healthy alternative to help find balance. $5.

GoodFish: Created by adventurer and survivalist Bear Grylls and Harmless Harvest founders Douglas Riboud and Justin Guilbert, Goodfish is an upcycled salmon protein chip sourced from Bristol Bay, Alaska. The chips naturally contain 2,600 mg of marine collagen, helping to maintain the integrity of skin, joints, bones, nails and hair. $25 for a pack of eight.

Phasey: Founder Asha Carroll created Phasey as a functional food option for better periods. The range includes Sex Chocolate with Shatavari, which supports libido, energy and stress, and Period Chocolate with CBD for period pain, cramps, anxiety and headaches. Phasey also offers two seed blends (flax and pepita) to reduce mood swings, cramps and fatigue. $7 to $12.

Smpl: These snack bars by founder Ellis Fried fall into four pillars: energize, calm, focus and immunity. When Fried discovered the power of adaptogens, botanicals and nootropics while in college, he set out to create a solution that provided effective doses without needing to measure out a slew of powders or pills. $30 for 12 bars.

The rest is here:

Functional Foods Enter the Skin Care Realm - WWD

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerburg. Others will follow him into the metaverse. Why you should, too.

Since Mark Zuckerberg announced on October 28 that Facebook would now be known as the Meta Platform, or simply Meta, its share price has risen by more than 9%, which is more than double what the Nasdaq NDAQ has done.

If you dont know what the Metaverse is think of it as a virtual world. There are many types of virtual worlds. Facebook wants to be the biggest one. Say what you will about Facebooks foray into the metaverse (theyll probably censor people in these new parallel universes), Zuckerbergs move into this space shows that within the Big Tech juggernauts, this guy is ahead of the curve.

The current, most popular ideas of the metaverse we have today could be described simply as a place that one can visit via smart glasses or VR headsets where you find yourself in a computer-generated world some fake forest or a beach somewhere or your office. The possibilities are endless, says Guy Yanpolskiy, chief organizer of the biggest blockchain and NFT event in Gulf the WOW Summit in the United Arab Emirates.

Yanpolskiy suspects the rest of the Big Tech will follow Zuck into the metaverse, as will the Japanese gamers at Sony and Nintendo.

Disneys going in. This is so obvious.

People are going to become addicted to these virtual worlds, and all sorts of nefarious sad things will happen in them (Ive seen Caprica! This doesnt end well for humanity!), but if I am wrong, maybe I should put some money to work in the meta-space, but I dont want to fork over $340 to own a single share of Facebook. Theres got to be something better, and of course there is. Blockchain platforms are sprouting up all over the place, designed to be the backbone of their own virtual world, where people play games or whatever, trade NFTs and cryptocurrency. Its a wonder they will ever get off the keyboard.

The metaverse trend offers immense potential to revolutionize our lifestyles and communication, and weve seen its development accelerate post-pandemic. But the metaverse is still conceptual and the race has just started, says Shixing Mao , aka Discus Fish, the CEO and Co-founder ofCobo, a formerly Beijing-based crypto currency asset manager and custodian platform now based in Singapore.

Cylons from the SyFy series Caprica (left) and Battlestar Galactica. In Caprica, people used virtual ... [+] worlds to recreate life of the deceased then used that intelligence to upload into robots.

Any company building VR/AR technology like Magic Leap, HTC Vive, Varjo, is a Metaverse company, says Dmitry Budorin, a project coordinator for ArtWallet, an NFT marketplace and storage solution. Any company doing psychedelic research or building biohacking or nootropics products that alter your brain chemistry is a metaverse company. Any company merging these two worlds with digital assets is especially a metaverse company.

Okay, that sounds terrifying.

Companies like Facebook are investing in the software and hardware to support metaverse virtual displays. The scalability of these virtual worlds have yet to go far on the blockchain outside of a few games or well-known platforms like Decentraland. Ive never used it. It seems like the Sims. For games, this brings up a whole new segment of crypto for me GameFi. Yes, Ive heard of it. No, I dont invest in it. I think I should start poking around. This is definitely a corner of the metaverse worth checking out.

If this is going to be a thing, how do we invest in the metaverse before the Cylons take it over?

The best way to invest crypto in the metaverse are by buying NFTs, says Mao, which everyone reading this knows to mean non-fungible token. An NFT is usually graphic arts, audio or video clips that give investors the chance to own a virtualized asset on the blockchain.

Everyone has heard that Decentralands native token Mana hit all time highs shortly after Facebooks announcement. That was a pure momentum trade. Only the lucky got in on that one. Anyone that bought in on the hype has lost money since. Its already back down to $3.20 as of Saturday.

Serious investors can buy the Grayscale Decentraland Trust as a metaverse play in that very same MANA token. Can you believe this is a thing now with Grayscale? Its up over 1,000% since it launched in February. But theres a catch, you have to be an accredited investor which requires a $25,000 minimum investment. If you bought on day one of the funds launch, youd now have $275,000 as of this weekend.Does this make you sick? It makes me sick.

Grayscale CEO Michael Sonnenshein. Grayscale had made it much easier for traditional retail ... [+] investors with an E*Trade account to invest in crypto without having to go through the pain of opening a crypto currency account and deal with crypto wallets.

How can us plebs get in on the action?

One thing thats noteworthy about crypto based metaverse projects is that you can earn tangible resources and assets in the metaverse, which can be exchanged for other digital and real-world goods, says San Morales, chief operating officer for Myobu, a new GameFi project out of Spain. (Wow, I didnt know Spain made things anymore.) Its the intersection of gaming and finance. Youve seen it already with several blockchain projects where it is possible to earn a living merely by playing games. Think Axie Infinity (AXS) for example, he says about the Vietnam-based blockchain game by Sky Mavis where you can make money in NFTs, then sell them for fiat.

We are creating parallel universes right now, people.

Myobu started as a community token in June 2021 and is just starting to work on making a game for the metaverse. They plan to roll it out in stages on the blockchain, starting with a fairly simple trading card game, and moving into a full-blown immersive role-playing game in the later stages. The token is available on Uniswap.

The creation of metaverses will serve as a catalyst for the development of blockchain systems oriented towards decentralized governance, decentralized finance and smart contracts in general, thinks Roman Nekrasov, a serial IT-entrepreneur from Russia and co-founder of the ENCRY Foundation.

He has another way for investors to get into the metaverse: just buy the foundation builders.

Think Ethereum (ETH), Polkadot (DOT), Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), he says. This is not only about blockchain systems for creating decentralized applications but also about infrastructure-building blockchain projects that are created for seamless transfers between blockchains. In my opinion, Polkadot is among those that are worth mentioning most, he says. Polkadot wants to solve a very important task to ensure interoperability among various blockchains within one platform. The seamless transfers among blockchains will become a necessity one day soon. I think over the next five years, Polkadothas a bright future.

Mister Discus Fish agrees.

The first thing to do is to invest in the infrastructure of the metaverse platforms and ecosystems, he says. Typically, the token economy underlying the ecosystem are common investments. The second one is to invest in core NFT assets on a (particular) metaverse platform. It could be something like (gaming) accessories, or clothing for a virtual avatar. The third way is to invest in a social token. Because the social interaction in the metaverse may bring some new social networking apps and create a fans economy, so itll be an integral part of the development of the metaverse, he said.

A whole new world. For real...only virtually real.

Social tokens are a type of cryptocurrency that is built around a community, influencer, or brand. They can be part of a metaverse or have nothing to do with it. Its just another way to diversify your crypto portfolio so youre not just owning Bitcoin, Ethereum and the classic alts like Filecoin and Litecoin.

Id buy AXS for its social aspect, says Yanpolskiy, who was ranked this year as one of the blockchain influencers to follow by Hackernoon. What we see there in terms of their community development is insane. Theyve built multi-billion-dollar, player-controlled ecosystems into games now.

The idea behind the gamification of entire token ecosystems brought Yanpolskiy to make his own play-to-earn gaming guild, CGU.io. Play to earn: the metaverse is calling it says on their website with something like a pink flying pig crossed with a ram and a chicken on their home page. They have their own token CGU is the ticker it trades at around $2 and change.

Yanpolskiy claims Crypto Gaming United now has 70,000 members in around 26 countries. In case you want to follow him on Insta, here he is.

Id rather invest in these than play them. These virtual worlds look like a total time suck. Check out The Sandbox. This Mindcraft looking game has its own token SAND. It started the year worth $0.03. Its now priced at $2.7 and there is something like $2 billion invested in this token.

As the teens used to say back in 2018: I cant even.

Joel Dietz, a metaverse true believer. He is all in on virtual real estate and building the Meta ... [+] Metaverse, a platform to create virtual worlds.

Start buying and developing virtual land and assets, says Joel Dietz, formerly with ArtWallet, and a founding member of Ethereum. Get involved in a couple 100-times growth potential projects and spread your bets.

Dietz is behind the Meta Metaverse, a new platform for building metaverses. It started in late October. We just started issuing our own land sale after intense interest following Dubai blockchain week, he said via his press office. The event ended October 18.

Cryptocurrency investors of today are likely to be the masters of the metaverse. The metaverse now has the potential to take The Sims to a whole new level. We are truly creating parallel systems of existence that will change how we live, how we interact with people across the world, and how we do business meaning you can probably hire someone in the metaverse. So you got fired in the new dystopia for wrong thing? Create a parallel universe in the metaverse and earn a living that way. Oh, itll happen. This is pre-Star Wars stuff going on here.

Nigel Green, CEO and founder of wealth manager deVere Group, says Facebook will hire a reported 10,000 people in the European Union to develop Zucks metaverse on its Horizon Worlds platform.

Facebooks announcement once again underscores that the metaverse is not being seen by those-in-the-know as an extension of the internetbut as its successor, says Green.

As a side note, while this isnt exactly all due to the metaverse, it is all due to crypto: Grayscales total assets under management is now over $60 billion, which is bigger than State Streets STT Gold ETF (GLD) GLD , once the most hotly traded ETF around. Grayscale didnt start launching crypto ETFs until around 2017. The SPDR Gold fund has been around since 2004.

Disclaimer: The author is the happy owner of Polkadot and Cardano. And, of course, Bitcoin.

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Why You Absolutely Must Invest In The Metaverse - Forbes

Consider this your 201-level guide to all the various leaves, seeds, powders, and potions that get so much buzz in the wellness scenethen discover how to actually incorporate them into your life. So whether you want to power up your smoothie with natural supplements, or you're just wondering how to use the cacao powder sitting in your pantry, you'll get the intel you need here. See All

Longevity has been a hot button topic for a long time (shocker!). Subjects such as what to eat, drink, practice, or value to live a long, happy, and healthy life are top-of-mind for many us. After all, isn't that sort of The Goal?

Well, according to both functional medicine doctorMark Hyman, MDand Dan Buettner, author and researcher of the world's Blue Zones (AKA regions around the world where the longest-living people reside), what you consume on a daily basis is a key part of boosting your body's potential to stay fit and functional for the long haul. On this episode of the Well+Good YouTube series, Plant-Based, Rachelle Robinett teaches us how to make a brain-boosting herbal shot that is packed with longevity-boosting ingredients.

Follow along as Robinett concocts an herb-filled shot that is catered specifically towards brain health and neuro-longevity. It includes adaptogens like rhodiola and ginseng, cerebral tonics like bacopa, and so much more. Just remember: To really commit to improving your lifespan in a healthy way, you have to take a holistic approach.

Rhodiola is one of the best herbs when it comes to brain health and longevity benefits. This is because it plays a strong role in boosting mental recovery. "We need to be able to flip into a system that is performing well, but we also need to be able to flip out of it and be in that rest and digest and neutral state," says Robinett. She adds that rhodiola also helps inhibit the release of cortisol, which is supremely helpful becauseno shock herestress can be very detrimental to your brain health in chronic doses.

The beverage also includes ginseng, which helps to reduce inflammation in the brain. According to Robinett, neuroinflammation can cause anxiety, depression, and longer term neurological disorders, so ginseng is essential to keeping your brain happy, calm, and not overworked. It's also filled with antioxidants, which fight against free-radical damage and help your immune system function in top form.

Robinett's recipe features nootropics like bacopaa common component of many ADHD and ADD treatmentsand functional mushrooms. Nootropics, she explains, help support memory, cognition, and learning in the brain. The bacopa also helps increase circulation in the brain and supports brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. The functional mushroom blend in the shot helps optimize brain functioning and focus, plus it works to balance out your mood (thanks to the reishi) and promote nerve health (thanks to the Lion's Mane).

Finally, and most importantly, the recipe also includes turmeric. Turmeric is a delicious spice that's great for your whole body, from your skin to your joints and your gut. It's also a known anti-inflammatory agent."Turmeric is a potent antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals, is linked to lower risk of brain diseases like Alzheimers and dementia, and has also been shown to lower the risk of heart disease," Buettner previously told Well+Good. This is because turmeric contains plant compounds called curcuminoids, which are also highly anti-inflammatory. In a double-blind study published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychology, curcumin was shown to have a significant effect on memory and attention in adults aged 50 to 90 who had mild memory complaints. Over 18 months, curcumin improved memory in this population by 28 percent. They also experienced mild improvements in mood. Though the exact mechanism by which this effect happens is not known, Gary W. Small, M.D., director of the UCLA Longevity Center, told Well+Good that it likely has something to do with curcumin's anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ready to knock back a bounty of longevity-promoting vitamins, minerals, and adaptogenic herbs? Stir up Robinett's recipe to boost your memory, focus, creativity, and overall brain functioning in one quick sip.

Ingredients2 ounces of plant-based milk1/2 tsp rhodiola1/2 tsp ginseng1/2 tsp bacopa1 serving mushroom blend1/2 tsp astragalus1 tsp turmericPinch of black pepper

Use a milk frother or whisk to mix all of the ingredients together.

For more healthy recipes and cooking ideas from our community, join Well+Good's Cook With Us Facebook group.

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This Herbal Shot for Longevity Is the Key to A+ Brain Health - Well+Good

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Remember that 2011 movieLimitless?In it, Bradley Cooper plays a struggling writer who discovers a magical pill that makes him a smarter, more productive and better version of himself. Well, as it turns out, the films plot isnt entirely science fictionthese kinds of brain boosters really do exist. Theyre called nootropicsheres what you need to know.

Nootropics (aka smart drugs or memory enhancers) are natural, synthetic or prescription substances that are touted to enhance mental function, explains surgical directorDr. Michael Jay Nusbaum. People (primarilybiohackersand the Silicon Valley set) turn to these ingredientseither taken on their own or in a chemical cocktailto improve memory, focus and alertness. The way that they work (ifthey work, but more on that below) depends on what the substance is. For example, some may work by boosting blood flow to the brain while others work by protecting it from inflammation.

Bestselling author and founder of Bulletproof Coffee, Dave Asprey swears by the power of nootropics. In a 2015 interview with CNN Business, the biohacking enthusiast revealed that he takes a cocktail of 15 of these nifty supplements every morning. Each one has a different benefit, he told the publication. One may help bolster memory; another will help you focus. Rumor has it that even former president Barack Obama has taken a nootropic called Modafinil (a.k.a Provigil) to help with jet lag while traveling the globe. Those reports were never confirmed, however.

There are some nootropics that youre probably already familiar with, like caffeine andturmeric. Then there are various supplements (like Piracetam and Noopept) and prescription medications (like Adderall, Ritalin and the aforementioned Modafinil) that also fall into the nootropics category. Companies use these ingredients to make various pills, powders, tonics and, um,even gum.

Kinda, sorta. While some nootropics have been extensively studied and proven to improve cognitive ability (like caffeine and Adderall), research for most others is either nonexistent or very limited. Unfortunately, many of these smart drugs don't have solid scientific evidence supporting their claims,Dr. Jen Haleytells us. Not only that, but in some cases, they can actually be dangerous when combined together. And because most nootropics are classified as dietary supplements, the Food and Drug Administration doesnt regulate manufacturers claims, meaning theres no real way of knowing what youre paying for. On that topic, nootropics can be pricey: Supplementslike Qualia Mindwill set you back a staggering $100 for a pack of two.

Intrigued about nootropics and the prospect of improving your brain function? Talk to a doctor before adding any supplements to your diet and keep in mind that the effects (if any) will likely be minimal. Folks who have tried various nootropics describe the brain-boosting effects as similar to drinking a cup of strong coffeeminus the jitteriness. (In other words, dont expect to gain Bradley Cooper-style superpowers any time soon.) As for us, we plan on sticking to tried-and-true methods proven to improve cognitive function likea healthy diet, plenty of sleep andthe right amount of exercise.

RELATED: This 12-Second Trick Trains Your Brain to Be More Positive

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Nootropics Are Trendingbut What the Heck Are They? - msnNOW

Memory plays a big role in every aspect of human life. From the time you are a baby, your memory starts to develop at an exponential rate with each passing day. As you grow up, your memory develops to help you remember things that are important for your daily life. Things like phone numbers and birthdays of loved ones. Knowledge is power, the more information you have stored in your brain, the better it is for you. Here are the top ways to help you boost your memory.

Nootropics, otherwise known as smart drugs, are supplements that help you achieve peak brain performance. These products work by stimulating activity in neurons of the central nervous system. When taken regularly, the best nootropics for men and women aim to improve memory recall, concentration levels, logical reasoning skills, and attention span. Nootropics vary in dosage so be sure to read instructions carefully before consumption.

Mind maps are a method where you break down large chunks of information into smaller bits. For instance, if you were to study for an exam, mind maps would help you organize your knowledge in different topics instead of one large chunk. This way, when the time comes to recall the information it will be easier because you will have already broken them down into small bite-size pieces. You may use colours and lines within this organizational chart to distinguish topics from one another.

Having fun isnt just about playing video games or watching movies. Participating in quizzes and trivia games is a great way to help boost your memory. A fun fact about the human brain is that it likes novelty and diversity. By participating in quizzes and trivia, you are forcing your mind to use information you have already stored in order to find answers. Here are some of the best games to play to boost your memory:

This game tests your knowledge across a range of topics, from history to pop culture. You can also play against friends and family online which is a great way to have fun while learning new things.

People who have played this board game know that its easy to learn but difficult to master. There are over 1,600 questions in the trivia deck alone! This game has six different categories that players move around the board trying to collect pieces. The first one to collect six pieces wins the game and gets bragging rights!

This is a trivia game where you have to name the correct answer in seven questions or less. You can play against random opponents or challenge people directly through the app.

Jeopardy is a game show that tests your knowledge in different fields. There are both daily themed games and category-based games where you have to answer trivia questions with the most points within 30 seconds. The good thing about this game is that it teaches you new things while also making you more aware of events happening around the world. By playing Jeopardy, you will not only be developing your memory but improving general knowledge as well.

While quizzes and mind maps help break down large chunks of information for better recall, taking notes helps keep track of whats important so it sticks with you longer. This can be applied to any task or duty at hand whether its school, work, or personal life.

By taking notes, you are creating a visual aid that will help you remember whats important. This way, the information doesnt just disappear into thin air once youve achieved your goal.

Spending time outdoors has been proven scientifically to help improve brain activity. One reason behind this benefit is the Vitamin D benefits for the body. Another reason would be due to improved oxygen levels in your blood which will then lead to increased cognitive function. It doesnt matter if its sunny or cloudy outside, the exposure to sunlight is enough for you to get your daily dosage of Vitamin D.

Lack of sleep can actually affect brain health long-term, especially in children and teenagers (which is why they need at least 8 hours per night). When it comes to adults, lack of sleep can affect your memory, decision-making, and information processing, all things that are important in a productive day. By getting a good nights rest, you will be able to store facts in long-term memory.

By following the advice above, you will be able to improve your memory by boosting your attention span in minutes! Try nootropics, participate in quizzes and trivia games, keep notes, organize information with mind maps, spend time outdoors for improved brain health, and get adequate sleep.

Excerpt from:

Top Ways To Help You Effectively Boost Your Memory - The Seeker Newsmagazine Cornwall - The Seeker

Derek from More Plates More Dates has carved out a unique niche for himself on YouTube. The young entrepreneur has built up a large following covering bodybuilding and self-improvement. Derek first started blogging on his site MorePlatesMoreDates.com (brilliant name) and afterwards began uploading videos to YouTube. Over the last 18 months the growth of his channel has been phenomenal. At the start of 2021, he had 300,000 subs and now has triple that amount! It wont be long until he passes the million milestone!

Background

While in university, Derek studied business and planned to get a job as an accountant after graduating. His mindset changed when his mentor Good Looking Loser was running a successful online business.

Derek started publishing self-improvement related content on his blog in 2016 and developed a small audience. He has been working in the supplement space for years, which inspired him to launch Gorilla Mind in 2017. Gorilla Mind is a supplements company selling a range of Nootropics that claim to boost cognitive performance and pre-workout formulas. Derek owns Gorilla Mind alongside business partners Mike Cernovich and Chris Deoudes.

The 28-year-old also owns a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) clinic called Marek Health. The clinic provides services to help with hair loss, erectile dysfunction, weight loss, thyroid function and more.

His journey to success didnt happen overnight and it took him two years to get 10,000 subscribers. Now, hes averaging 1,000 subs per day and is uploading videos everyday to keep his viewers engaged.

Unlike most fitness YouTubers, More Plates More Dates doesnt limit his content and explores topics such as hair loss prevention, hormone optimization and pharmacology. Over the years, hes worked with famous actors, pro bodybuilders and elite athletes as his consultation services are in high demand!

MPMDs rise to internet fame has led to fans becoming interested in his personal life. He even has a Reddit group with nearly 50,000 members. Despite his popularity, Derek keeps his life private and doesnt share his last name publicly. Believe me Ive tried to find out his full name out of curiosity but failed. I would never dox him!

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Excerpt from:

Derek of More Plates More Dates: a Fitness YouTuber on the Rise - Techie + Gamers

The market report on the Nootropics Market published by Stratview Research indicates lucrative growth opportunities in the Nootropics industry during the next five-year period and ensures more information regarding the market trends. The following summary will give an overview of the challenges, trends, market dynamics, and key players.

Nootropics Market Forecast:

The Nootropics Market is likely to witness an impressiveCAGR of 7.4%during the forecast period.

The growth of this market principally depends upon several factors which have direct or indirect influence on the demand. The report published by Stratview Research has the summary of such factors derived using multiple analysis. These methods help in evaluating the potential of the companies and identify gaps, finding challenges as well as opportunities to lay out a successful roadmap which leads to higher profitability.

Here are the key players in the market

Wish to receive a sample? Request here:

https://www.stratviewresearch.com/Request-Sample/1647/nootropics-market.html#form

Nootropics Market Segmentation:

The report segments are based upon applications, material, product type, demographics, geographics, benefits and volume etc. It also recognizes the most-attractive segments and sub-segments.

Based on distribution channels, the global nootropics market has been bifurcated into offline and online.

Regional Insights

By region,North America dominated the nootropics market in 2020 with an astounding share of around 40%and is projected to grow at a healthy CAGR during the review period.

Report Customization and Custom Research

Stratview Research offers customization options to the users. Also, it provides custom research services across sectors. In case of any custom research requirement associated with market assessment, competitive benchmarking, sourcing and procurement, target screening, and others, please send your inquiry at

E-mail: sales@stratviewresearch.com Direct: +1-313-307-4176

About Stratview Research

Stratview Research is a leading market research firm that offers services like syndicated market reports, consulting, sourcing intelligence, and customer research, and much more. Stratview Researchs offerings also include comprehensive market intelligence in the form of research reports, and consulting services.

Read more:

Covid-19 Impact on Nootropics Market to Witness Steady Growth through 2026 - The Shotcaller

How do they work?

The research is still inconclusive on exactly how the drugs work to stimulate the mind, but early research indicates they may act on a variety of different systems within the body simultaneously. One explanation is that they may increase blood flow to the brain, which allows the brain to use more oxygen.4

Some nootropics may raise the bodys adrenalin levels and produce effects similar to drinking large amounts of caffeine, which means people can stay awake for extended periods of time.

Some drugs increase the amount of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) such as dopamine, which are released in the part of the brain associated with dependence.

The drugs often used to enhance cognition can generally be divided into 3 groups: Eugaroics, ADHD medications and Nootropic Supplements.

Eugeroics are a class of drugs that promote wakefulness and alertness. The most commonly used Eugeroic drug that is used to improve cognition is Modafinil.

Brand names: Modavigil, Modafin, Nuvigil

The drug was introduced in the late 1990s to treat narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea and shift work sleep disorder. Modafinil promotes wakefulness and alertness and may have some value in treating stimulant withdrawal and could be effective in decreasing drug craving and dependence. However, further research is needed.5,6

There is no safe level of drug use. Taking any type of drug always carries some risk, so its important to be careful.

Modafinil affects everyone differently, but the most common side effects include:

Research into nootropics is still limited which means there is a lot of uncertainty about the side effects the drugs may cause if used on an ongoing basis. It is recommended that these drugs are used only with a prescription from a medical practitioner to avoid any potential harms.

Types of ADHD medications used as nootropics include:

Methylphenidate, Lisdexamphetamine, Dexamfetamine

Brand names: Ritalin, Ritalin la, Concerta, Ritalin 10, Dexamphetamine tablets, Vyvanse

Ritalin was introduced during the 1950s to treat chronic fatigue, depression, and psychosis associated with depression. It was used extensively in the 1990s to treat ADHD and is now the most common psychotropic medication prescribed to children in the United States and Australia to treat restlessness, impulsive behaviour and inattentiveness.7 New research has explored the potential side effects of using Ritalin by people without ADHDsuch as students using it as a study enhancer. This research showed changes in brain chemistry associated with risk-taking behaviour, sleep disruption and other undesirable effects such as weight loss.8

There is no safe level of drug use. Taking any type of drug always carries some risk, so its important to be careful.

Methylphenidate affects everyone differently, but the most common side effects may include:

Long-term side effects

Regular use may eventually cause:

Certain B vitamins, fish oil and herbal supplements (such as Gingko biloba and extracts of Bacopa monnieri) may offer a safer option to pharmaceutical drugs to enhance cognitive performance. The benefits may not be as immediate but the effects are reportedly much longer lasting.11 The most commonly used nootropic supplements are CILTEP and Alpha Brain. However, the American Medical Association has advised that a number of products being advertised as nootropic supplements have not been examined in terms of safety and efficacy.

Read more:

Nootropics - ADF

Tyrosine enhances working memory, executive function, creative flow states, stress reduction, better mood, anti-anxiety and lessens symptoms of ADHD

L-Tyrosine is the master precursor required to form all catecholamine neurotransmitters.

Your brain uses the enzymetyrosine hydroxylaseto convert L-Tyrosine intoL-DOPA. Decarboxylation of L-DOPA results in synthesis of theneurotransmitterdopamine.[i]

Once converted into dopamine, the enzyme dopamine-beta-hydroxylase converts L-DOPA into norepinephrine(noradrenaline).

And Phenylethanolamine n-methyltransferase converts norepinephrine into epinephrine(adrenaline).

This triad of neurotransmitters are collectively known as catecholamines.

Tyrosine can be a highly effectivenootropicfor boosting cognitivefunction. And is particularly helpful in maintaining cognitive performance when youre under practically any kind of stress. Including music played above 90 dBs.

L-Tyrosine works in synergy withstimulantslike methylphenidate (i.e. Ritalin).[ii]Drugs like Ritalin work by blocking the reuptakeof the neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine. And if theres not enough dopamine available to do the job, Ritalin doesnt work very well.L-Tyrosinepotentiatesincreases in extracellular dopamine.

L-Tyrosine also stimulates the production of thyroid hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine) which are crucial in maintaining both overall physical and cognitive health.

L-Tyrosine can boost libido,memory,focus,concentration, mood, offers anti-depressant effects, and improvesexecutive functionin those with ADHD.

Tyrosine helps:

Your brain converts L-Tyrosine to L-DOPA which then produces theneurotransmitterdopamine. The unused dopamineis then further converted into the neurotransmittersnorepinephrine(noradrenaline) and epinephrine(adrenaline). This triad of neurotransmitters are collectively referred to as catecholamines.

Tyrosine is derived from the Greek wordtyros, meaning cheese. It was first discovered by German chemist Justus von Liebig in 1846 in the protein casein from cheese.

Tyrosine is considered anon-essentialamino acid because it can be synthesized in your body fromphenylalanine. Which is found in many high-protein foods such as poultry, fish, dairy, nuts, soy products, lima beans, avocados and bananas.

L-Tyrosine enhancesworking memoryandexecutive functionin the prefrontal cortex. It helps withcreative flow states, is fuel for inspiration,cognitive flexibility, and the kind of convergent thinking you do in multiple choice exams.

L-Tyrosine assists in the production of thyroid hormonesT3 (triiodothyronine)andT4 (thyroxine)which are crucial in maintaining both overall physical and cognitive health.

N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT)is the amino acid L-Tyrosine with an acetyl group added. When you take NALT as a supplement, it breaks down in your kidneys back into L-Tyrosine. So in theory, the two supplements offer the same benefits.

There is some debate in thenootropicscommunity on which is more effective.NALTor plainL-Tyrosine. NALT is a more soluble form of L-Tyrosine so itshouldbe morebioavailableto your body.

However, some studies report that in some cases, a sizeable percentage of supplemental NALT is excreted in urine before its converted into L-Tyrosine.[iv]

On a personal note, I havent had any issues using NALT as a source of L-Tyrosine. It gives me a dopamine and adrenal boost youd expect from supplementing with a dopamineprecursor.

But when I havent any NALT around I successfully switch to L-Tyrosine although at a slightly higher dose.

When dealing withADHD/ADD, L-Tyrosine is particularly effective when stacked withALCAR (Acetyl-L-Carnitine). ALCAR easily crosses theblood-brain barrierfor boostingacetylcholinelevels. And seems to positively influenceserotoninlevels. And Tyrosine provides my brain with the dopamine it needs to mitigate symptoms of ADHD/ADD.

I find that L-Tyrosine stacked with 20 mg of Ritalintwice a day works particularly well. Clearly, this brain doesnt have the capacity to produce enough dopamine on its own. And needs the boost that comes from supplementing with Tyrosine.

So like all nootropics,YMMV. Always take into account how each nootropic works synergistically with others in yourstack. And how they work with any meds you need to take.

This is as much art as it is science. And experimentation is key for optimal cognition.

L-Tyrosine boosts brain health and function in several ways. But two in particular stand out.

In one study done at the University of Bedfordshire in the UK, the effect of L-Tyrosine on cognitive performance was measured before an exercise task.

Researchers recruited 8 soccer players. And had them complete a 90-minute soccer simulation performance test in an environmental chamber set at 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

The soccer players were given either L-Tyrosine before exercise or a placebo. Cognitive performance was measured before the exercise task. Then again at half-time, following half time, and following the entire simulation.

The cognitive performance task assessed dual-task and vigilance. The outcome revealed that cognitive vigilance and reaction time among soccer players significantly improved following administration of L-Tyrosine.

Results showed that in warm-weather conditions,L-Tyrosine could enhance cognitive function and prevent cognitive impairment during exposure to exercise-heat stress.[v]

The unused dopamine can then convert into the neurotransmitters norepinephrine(noradrenaline) andepinephrine(adrenaline).

Norepinephrine is important for attentiveness, emotions, sleeping, dreaming and learning.

Epinephrine drives your flight-or-flight response. Its what prompts your reaction to dangerous circumstances, emergency situations, or in stressful situations or environments.

In one study done in the Netherlands, researchers determined if L-Tyrosine would boost cognitive resources associated with cognitive control. They performed tests designed to measure working memory using the N-Back Test.

Study participants were assigned to engage in a 1-back condition of easy difficulty and then a 2-back condition of tougher difficulty. Those that used L-Tyrosine demonstrated superior performance in the 2-back test, but not the 1-back test.

The study authors suggested that L-Tyrosine provides greater cognitive enhancementwhen cognitive demand increases. The bottom-line; supplementation of L-Tyrosine may help youincrease your IQ score due to maximizing catecholamine reserves.[vi]

As we get older, our brain and body chemistry and energy metabolism changes.

Dopaminergic neurons are damaged or die

Neurotransmitter levels decline

Thyroid hormones decline

Stress levels increase

Working memory and mood decline

All of these changes are often attributed to aging. But could be a result of dietary and lifestyle choices.

Unchecked, they could lead to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinsons, a drop-in quality of life and depression.

L-Tyrosine can boost levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. And contributes to the production of thyroid hormones T4 and T3.

Tyrosine can help boost cognition especially in stressful situations. It helps improve decision making, flow state and creativity, cognitive flexibility, and working memory.

L-Tyrosine converts into L-DOPA to produce dopamine. L-DOPA is also used to make melanin in your body. This conversion process helps in the removal of neurotoxicquinones. And chelates heavy metals like mercury and lead which can accumulate in and damageneurons.

The dopamine that is not used by your brain is available to produce norepinephrine (noradrenaline)which is important for attentiveness, emotions, sleeping, dreaming, and learning.

L-Tyrosine can be an effective nootropic when stacked with ADHD/ADD meds like Ritalin or Adderall. It helps supply extracellular dopamine needed to improve the effectiveness of stimulants used to boost the uptake of dopamine in your brain.

Keep in mind that L-Tyrosine is a precursor to catecholamines. So if youre not low on dopamine, norepinephrine or epinephrine you may not feel anything.

Many neurohackers report a lift in mood, better focus, concentration, increased energy, and an overall sense of well-being. L-Tyrosine can help readjust your motivation levels. It can help lower anxiety levels, especially social anxiety.

Supplementing with L-Tyrosine can help bring your blood pressure down if its elevated from a stressful situation or environment. Take it before the stressful event if you can.

L-Tyrosine helps buffer the effects ofstimulantslike caffeine or amphetamines. It helps potentiate and prolong the effects of Ritalin or Adderall, and reduces the crash.

If youre into athletics or do manual work, youll find that supplementing with L-Tyrosine before a workout or construction job will leave you feeling great afterwards. It helps mitigate many of the effects of acute stress caused by short-term stressors.

And L-Tyrosine helps your body to produce melanin, so you may find it easier to get a tan while at the beach.

Several studies have investigated using L-Tyrosine for the treatment of ADHD. One informal study published in the 1980s determined that L-Tyrosine resulted in short-term relief from ADHD symptoms. But subjects eventually reachedtoleranceand a diminished effect.

This is important for neurohackers to keep in mind. Itseemsthat L-Tyrosine on its own can benefit some more than others. Regardless if youre treating ADHD, or are perfectly cognitively healthy.

Ive seen more than one report of nootropic users experiencing tolerance after just a week of supplementing with L-Tyrosine. But most peer-reviewed, published studies show positive results.

One study published in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment in 2011 looked at using amino acid precursors for the treatment of ADHD. Including L-Tyrosine for dopamine, and 5-HTP for serotonin.

The study used 85 young people aged 4 18 years old, all with a clinical diagnosis of ADHD. They were treated for an initial period of 8 10 weeks.

Urinary samples to determine serotonin and dopamine levels were collected within the first 4 weeks. If they didnt reach adequate levels, subjects were moved to higher dosing levels 2 and then 3 until they got relief from symptoms.

Researchers found that thedopamine and serotonin precursors yielded similar results to Strattera and Ritalin. And the amino acid protocol may be equal in efficacy to potent, pharmaceutical ADHD medications.[vii]

This study is particularly interesting for its nootropic application. Its commonly understood that blood pressure rises when were under stress. The source of stress doesnt really matter. Stress up = blood pressure up.

A study in Amsterdam showed that L-Tyrosine administration decreased blood pressure about 15 minutes after ingestion. This study involved assessing task performance following acute stress.

Acute stressis usually short-term and can be caused by driving, fighting, athletics, martial arts training, war, combat training, CrossFit, cold showers, loud music, intense movies, loud noises, business deals, relationships, school, exams and more.

The point is,this study is applicable to every one of us. The study found thatL-Tyrosine reduced diastolic blood pressure within 15 minutesof taking the supplement. And blood pressure normalized within 1 hour.

This study tells us that L-Tyrosine may promote a decrease in blood pressure caused by stress. Andcould be used to mitigate the effects of stressful situations if takenpriorto the stressful event.[viii]

Cognitive flexibilityapplies to those who can adjust their thinking quickly to adapt to novel situations and stimuli. A high degree of cognitive flexibility is associated withincreased fluid intelligence, superior reading and comprehension, and ahealthier brain.

Recent research (2015) supports the idea that L-Tyrosine promotes cognitive flexibility. In this trial, researchers recruited 22 adults. And setup a double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

All subjects were assigned a task switching procedure to measure their flexibility. The results showed that receiving L-Tyrosine supplementation increased cognitive flexibility compared to the placebo group.

The researchers determined that L-Tyrosine can facilitate cognitive flexibility by repleting cognitive resources.[ix]

The team observed thatincreased cognitive flexibility was likely due to a boost in dopamine concentrations. They noted that L-Tyrosine enhanced usage of various cognitive resources. Andone way to increase your cognitive flexibility would be to start supplementing with L-Tyrosine.

It stands to reason that people who are close-minded, set it their ways, are resistant to change and cant cope with unexpected stimuli or situations have cognitive rigidity. And its likely due to suboptimal dopamine levels.

L-Tyrosine suggested dosage for cognitive benefit is 500 mg 2 grams per day.

You may find your body responds to smaller doses. Or even more if youre stacking it with stimulants like ADHD meds. Listen to your body and see how you react.

Dose L-Tyrosine an hour before or two hours after a meal. Otherwise, youll not experience the benefits of this nootropic.

I personally stack L-Tyrosine with my Ritalin dose twice per day. And a final dose of L-Tyrosine late afternoon to prevent a stimulant crash.

NOTE: long-term use of L-Tyrosine can suppress serotonin. Symptoms include depression, fatigue or severe anxiety feeling much like a panic attack. You can easily counter this by supporting serotonin with a 250 500 mg L-Tryptophan about 60 mins. before bed.

L-Tyrosine is considered non-toxic and very safe. Most neurohackers dont have any negative side effects from using L-Tyrosine.

At higher doses there are reports of stomach issues and migraines. Migraine problems usually happen to those who already suffer from migraines. Thismaybe an indication that your neurotransmitter levels are already optimal, and you dont need to supplement with L-Tyrosine.

L-Tyrosine can increase your thyroid hormones. So if yourehyperthyroid you should use caution when supplementing with L-Tyrosine because it may change the way your thyroid meds work.

And if youre takingMAO inhibitors (MAOIs)like selegiline, Azilect, Marplan or Nardil youshould notuse L-Tyrosine.

MAOIs work in your brain by blocking the enzyme monoamine oxidase. This enzyme normally blocks excess dopamine. But when you block the enzyme, more dopamine is released.

So using L-Tyrosine in combination with MAOIs could raise dopamine levels too high. Resulting in a rapid rise in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis). Causing severe headache, nausea and sweating, severe anxiety, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, vision changes, shortness of breath and confusion.

A severe increase in blood pressure from this combo can lead to hemorrhagic stroke or a heart attack.

L-Tyrosine is available to buy in powder, capsule and tablet form. Capsules and tablets are usually 300 500 mg.

Some pre-made nootropic stacks and workout stacks also include L-Tyrosine as part of their formula.

N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) is an alternative to plain L-Tyrosine. NALT has an acetyl group added to L-Tyrosine in an attempt to make it more bioavailable.

For example, Mind Lab Pro contains 11 brain enhancing nootropic compounds including N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine.

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.

Ensure you read labels carefully and stick with manufacturers who follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). And are GMP-Certified. And do your best to avoid toxic other ingredients which are usually listed at the bottom of Supplement Facts labels.

L-Tyrosine500 mg 2 grams per day

I recommend using L-Tyrosine as a nootropic supplement.

Your body does synthesize someL-Tyrosine fromphenylalaninewhich comes from high-protein foods like chicken, fish, almonds, avocados and bananas.

But most of us dont get enough L-Tyrosine from our diet. So supplementation will help.

Read the original:

Tyrosine Nootropics Expert

Ive been a regular user of nootropics for many years, both synthetic and otherwise. The effects of Lions Mane were fairly consistent compared to other nootropics, perhaps a little bit less intense and in-your-face, which is probably a good thing. This indicates that the supplement isnt overwhelming my natural capacity to function, rather that its adjusting and improving my neural functioning at a reasonable level.

Week 1

The first day that I used Lions Mane didnt really change much. I felt a little bit less anxious (I usually struggle with fairly severe social anxiety) and my mood may have been slightly improved, but nothing obvious was happening. The same was true for day two. However, on day three I began to notice a few improvements. I found myself able to hold a conversation for better and found that my responses were wittier. As the week progressed, I found myself having an easier time pulling facts and memories out of my head. These benefits followed me into my social engagements and I found myself enjoying interesting and fulfilling conversations. There is some discussion online about Lions Mane sleep effects, but I didnt notice any changes in my sleep schedule throughout the month.

Week 2

As the Lions Mane continued to work its magic, its effects became more apparent in my writing and work. I found it easier to juggle different facts during my research and had an easier time drawing connections between different ideas. Remember, these benefits werent nearly as profound as something like Noopept. Synthetic nootropics have a powerful ability to create laser-sharp focus, which is nice in the short term. However, I prefer not to use synthetic nootropics over the long term anymore as I feel like theyre a bit taxing on my brain. Lions Mane, on the other hand, was smooth, gradual, and helpful. However, the effects were subtle enough that, if I hadnt been diligently taking the Lions Mane mushroom supplement, I might not have noticed any profound changes.

Week 3

Week 3 was consistent with week 2. Social skills were improved, social anxiety was slightly reduced, and I had an easier time focusing on my work and schooling.

Week 4

As I entered into week 4 I became less aware of the Lions Mane mushroom effects. They were probably still active, but Id grown so used to them that I was no longer aware of any tangible benefits. This felt like a good place to stop using the supplement, so I stopped. I didnt notice any withdrawal effects or cognitive deficit right away, although I did feel my social anxiety start to creep back in a couple of days after Id stopped using the mushroom.

Original post:

I took Lions Mane mushroom for 30 days, here is what happened