What are nootropics? The word has risen in popularity over the last few years as people search for alternative and natural cognitive enhancers to elevate their performance.
As we learn more and more about the mind, the body and what makes us tick, we are discovering new and exciting ways to optimize our cognitive performance.
The world around us moves fast. Whether you are a college student studying for exams, a young professional striving for a promotion or simply someone intent on reaching their potential, nootropics can give you that extra level you need to succeed.
Razor sharp focus is a state of mind that many people find difficult to reach and sustain. Nootropics are an effective and natural way to experience sustained mental stamina, heightened motivation and unshakable focus.
The name ‘nootropics’ is given to a wide range of natural substances that improve cognitive function and promote certain psychological benefits, such as boosting mood, executive functions, focus, attention, memory, creativity, and motivation.
The term is derived from the Ancient Greek word noós (meaning mind), and tropé (meaning turning). It was first introduced by Corneliu Glurgea in 1972 to describe a new classification of molecules that acted selectively towards the brain’s higher-level integrative activity.
Glurgea created five criteria that a product must meet to qualify as nootropic. They are as follows:
- It should aid with improvement in working memory and learning.
- Supports brain function under hypoxic conditions or after electroconvulsive therapy.
- Protection of the brain from physical or chemical toxicity.
- Natural cognitive functions are enhanced.
- It must be non-toxic to humans and not cause depression or negative stimulation towards the brain.
By following these 5 rules, nootropics have evolved exponentially since their inception in the early 70s to become a powerful tool in the arsenal of anyone who uses them.
But what makes nootropics so effective? How do the ingredients work? Let’s take a look at some of the ingredients found commonly across many nootropic products and how they enhance your performance.
Niacin
Also known as niacin acid, it can be found in the likes of red meat, brown rice, fish and nuts. It is essential to a healthy and well performing nervous system, which controls pretty much everything in the body, including thinking, learning and memory.
Iron
Iron is a mineral that we all know about, but many of us don’t get enough of. It plays a vital role in the brain’s cognitive functioning (concentration, problem solving, creativity) and maintains a healthy flow of oxygen through the body.
Vitamin B6
B6 maintains healthy psychological functioning. This affects things like emotions, behaviors and social skills.
Vitamin B12
B12 reduces tiredness and fatigue and contributes to an energy-welding metabolism, ensuring that your body utilizes its energy sources efficiently.
Combining these ingredients, along with dozens of other natural and healthy ingredients and minerals, has the ability to give you extreme focus and concentration when you need it.
There are 6 key areas where nootropics can have a tangible effect on your performance.
Speed
Increase your processing speed and ignite rapid recall.
Clarity
Work with a clarity and purpose that drives results.
Stamina
Have the ability to keep pushing with sustained intense focus.
Defend
Stave off burnout, crashing, mental fatigue and brain fog.
Memory
Protect and bolster memory.
Motivation
Increase your motivation and drive to get the job done.
Considering these benefits, let’s discuss where and when nootropics might be most effective for you. Situationally, where might you use them?
Their uses are infinite, really. If you have a busy day at work and are struggling to get through it. Studying for a big exam and need an extra energy boost and help you take in information effectively.
Maybe you have a big meeting and you need to be at your very best? Maybe you notice slumps in energy and focus at certain times in the day?
But it’s not only work and study environments where nootropics can be effective. It can help you focus when working out, playing sports or more generally in your life if you find yourself in situations where you need to combat mental fatigue and boost your focus and concentration.
One thing is for sure, nootropics are here to stay, and you don’t want to be the one left behind when the rest of us are driving forward with their help, do you?