The Pill that Helps You Remember to Take It

As baby boomers age, they are increasingly concerned about their focus, cognition and mental energy.  In short, they are worried about how their brains are functioning.

Recently there has been a trend toward brain boosters called nootropics, a cognitive enhancement substance that has been shown to aid in the battle against memory loss, forgetfulness, and confusion.  

For those looking to keep their brains healthy (and who isn't?), nootropics sound promising. However, like most things in life, not all supplements are created equal.

I have devoted the last several years to the research and testing of nootropics and the ingredients that go into them.  Here is some helpful information that can aid you as you navigate through this brave new world.

Most nootropics are 'stacked.' This means they are a blend of other ingredients, which makes all the difference as there can be a wide discrepancy in quality.  Look for the registered trademark ® in ingredients, so you can be assured that the company is using premium patented ingredients with quality clinical research supporting its efficacy, instead of generic ingredients with unknown scientific backing.

You also need to be mindful of the potency of the ingredients.  Look for explicitly stated dosages or concentration of ingredients on labels. Many manufacturers will add trace amounts of an ingredient just to say it's in the product, instead of the amount clinically needed to actually work.

Finally, safety of ingredients is paramount.  Look for Good Manufacturing Process (GMP) on the bottle. This means the brain booster is GMP certified with complete Certificate of Analysis (COA) for quality standards. Protect your body with informed purchases from known sources.

Here are the top scientifically supported ingredients to look for in nootropics:  

• Huperzine A enhances memory and learning capabilities. Researchers are exploring how it may help fight free radicals and prevent cognitive decline.
• Phosphatidylserine improves cognitive health and communication between brain cells. It is highly beneficial for both short term and long term memory.
• Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is commonly used to combat mental fatigue and helps to significantly reduce feelings of confusion or 'brain fog,' and for its antiaging benefits.
• Sulbutiamine is well-known for improving mental function, such as memory, focus, and motivation. Studies have shown sulbutiamine may also help provide a boost in mental energy and mood enhancement.
• Vinpocetine improves alertness, concentration and memory.
• Bacopa Monnieri is one of the oldest natural supplements with nootropic properties that has been used for thousands of years to enhance cognitive performance, learning capabilities, and improvements to memory. Bacopa acts as an antioxidant for the brain, with research supporting anti-anxiety, anti-stress and long term memory improving properties.
• L-Tyrosine, or Tyrosine, helps boosts mental alertness, energy, and attention span. It may increases cognitive function when exposed to stress.
• Taurine helps with better memory formation. Other studies have shown that Taurine may reduces stress and lessens anxiety.
• Vitamin B12 aids in optimizing blood flow and improves the functionality of your brain.  B12's nootropic benefits include potential neuron development and maintenance as well as cognitive processes related to memory, learning, concentration and reasoning.
• Vitamin D3 is a helpful nutrient and nootropic ingredient. Cognitive decline may be associated with low vitamin D levels. Research has shown improved cognition can result from increased vitamin D levels.

As living organisms, we are all aging.  There is nothing we can do about that. There is no fountain of youth. But we have the tools to fight back.  Safe, quality nootropics can make a difference in the health and vitality of your brain. I wish you a long and healthy life as we make this journey together.

 Alternascript.com