“The human brain had a vast memory storage. it made us curious and very creative. those were the characteristics that gave us an advantage – curiosity, creativity, and memory. and that brain did something very special. it invented an idea called ‘the future.” David Suzuki
These wise words serve as an excellent reminder that the future of humanity relies on better memory and enhanced creativity, and these things are now here in the shape of nootropics. But before we further explain their purpose, let’s consider the fact that our brain needs training as much as our body does. So how much do you invest in a healthy and productive mind?
According to studies, there is an increased potential decline in life expectancy in the United States in these modern times. For the first time in history, there is a risk that younger generations will not surpass their parents. Although this sounds scary, all of the answers are already here to put a stop to unhealthy lifestyles.
Exercise holds the key to productivity and a longer life span. However, not only do workouts shape our physique, but they also affect our memory, attention, and brain function. Nevertheless, in order to unlock the full potential of the mind, one will have to consider going further than keeping the brain fit via memory boosting games. Welcome to the world of vigorous brain supplements known as nootropics.
WHAT ARE NOOTROPICS?
Nootropics is a term used to describe naturally-occurring compounds and man-made substances that provide cognitive advantages to the brain. To put it simply, nootropics are supplements for the mind that have the ability to improve memory and boost mental capacities. But before you even think it is some harmful drug, remember the words “naturally” and “future”.
That said, let’s review the past human development from the agricultural days. Ever since we began to evolve, our brain had to learn and soak in a vast amount of information. So, it is not a surprise that during almost seven million years, the human brain has tripled in size.
However, in the past 10,000 years, our brain started to noticeably shrink, but with the advent of technology and better nutrition things took a turn for the better and our brains grew in size once again.
Nowadays, people have improved their nutrition, since we are all familiar with a proper diet plan that supports healthy growth. Even though a well-balanced diet includes all the nutrients our body needs to stay strong and healthy, we still need a way to deal with the large quantity of daily information our mind has to process.
If the human race wants to progress and surpass their ancestors, people need to develop and start using their brain’s full potential. Although we have quality education and accurate online “how to” explanations for just about any subject, the stress of handling so much information at once can get to anyone. Nevertheless, it doesn’t have to be this way, because science has once again found a safe and effective solution.
That is right, nootropics help you exceed the limitations of human intelligence and grant the following benefits:
• Enhanced ability to learn.
• Increased memory abilities.
• Brain protection from chemical and physical injuries.
• Better brain focus and function under unsettling conditions.
• Increased efficiency of neuronal firing control mechanisms.
• Non-toxic components with no side effects, if used correctly.
Basically, nootropics are kind of like the pills presented in the movie Limitless, only with less dramatic effects and without all of Bradley Cooper’s struggles. Sounds great, right? Actually, we are at the age when we shouldn’t be doubting advancements like this. After all, the virtual reality is almost here, so why shouldn’t there be a brain supplement, without risks, that can heighten our cognitive abilities?
ORIGIN AND USE OF NOOTROPICS
Did you know that cave paintings dating back 10,000 years and more suggest that even the first hominids were using plants to protect and alter their brain functions? Throughout our entire existence, people have always turned to nature, and later on science, in order to become much superior versions of themselves and enhance their memory as well as their creativity.
In truth, the majority of supplements known today as natural nootropics can be traced back to centuries ago when the Ginkgo Biloba was commonly used as an ancient Chinese medicine. Still, nootropics or “smart drugs” as they are commonly referred to, were first discovered with Piracetam.
The origin and journey of nootropics begins precisely with this drug, because ever since it was first synthesized it opened the doors for new nootropic discoveries. Hence, nowadays we have an array of nootropic options to choose from.
However, one thing has to be mentioned and remembered – while nootropics have the ability to make people smarter though raising their capacity to learn and remember, they will not suddenly make one a genius. That is why their usage has to be controlled and balanced.
Each year students turn to such cognitive enhancers to increase their scholastic performance. Despite the measures that Oxford is taking to educate them on the use of “smart drugs”, when nootropics are consumed in the right measure, they can contribute to the brain’s long-term well-being.
If we take into consideration that our brain is made of billions of neurotransmitters and receptors controlling our bodily functions, slight modulations in their behavior can drastically improve our brain health. As a result, not only will the memory and learning potential improve, but enhanced neurotransmitter responses will protect the brain from well-known cognitive disorders such as dementia and amnesia.
Some of the nootropic supplements increase the supply of blood rich in oxygen to the brain or even stimulate the production of Nerve Growth Factor, which leads to the growth of brain cells due to protein synthesis. Then again, nootropics need to be taken for days or weeks for these benefits to take effect.
On the other hand, nootropics such as Noopept and Phenylpiracetam provide immediate results. For that reason, it is crucial to do the research and see all of the benefits and effects nootropics have in order to choose the best option for your beautiful mind.
MAIN NOOTROPICS CLASSIFICATION
what are nootropics?Speaking in general terms, nootropics are divided into three big categories:
• Racetams
• Stimulans
• Nutraceuticals
Each nootropic category has specific functions, with the main goal of preserving and enhancing the brain’s abilities and health. Even so, their usage depends on individual requirements.
Racetams
Racetams affect the Acetylcholine (one of the prevailing neurotransmitters) in the brain, which means that they directly affect mood, memory, focus, and mental alertness. They serve to provide mental clarity via increased concentration, greater calmness, and enhanced memory capacity.
In addition, racetams allow us to better recall and rapidly recognize the patterns and distinctions among them. Thus, they work wonders for those in the analytic or creative field and therefore, as far as the students go, they can correctly analyze and form lengthy essays.
Contrary to racetams, which give birth to ideas and quickly navigate the brain towards effective solutions, stimulants improve concentration and the brain’s alertness. They increase the mind’s tolerance for stress by increasing energy levels, heart rates, blood pressure, and respiration. Moreover, the effects last longer than those of memory enhancers.
Nutraceuticals
This group is simply the food or organic products with content that combines effects of stimulants and racetams. However, the effects are limited and much less evident. They can be used for improving brain activity, but some supplementary means have to be added to those struggling with severe mental health disorders.
MOST POPULAR NOOTROPICS
The time has come to review the list of top nootropics that are currently available and highly popular. Take a peak and determine which one of these is the right brain boosting asset suitable to your daily activities.
5-HTP Amino Acids
To begin with, 5-HTP doesn’t actually classify as a nootropic, but it does work in a similar way. This is actually an amino acid naturally occurring in our body. It acts as an intermediator in the melatonin and serotonin synthesis, providing the benefits such as improved quality of sleep, better mood, and controlled appetite to those trying to maintain their weight goal.
And how does it boost cognitive functions? Well, with a healthier dose of sleep and a happier mood, your brain’s abilities improve significantly. Side effects are extremely rare and only if you avoid to follow the clear instructions. The usual dosage includes 100-600 mg daily, but those taking additional medication should consult a doctor.
Piracetam: Coming Back to Roots
Piracetam is considered a safe, non-toxic, and non-addictive supplement with a long history of use and research conducted on this particular subject. This cognitive enhancer is one of the best brain improving tools offering its users improved focus and learning, and better neurotransmitter function.
This the ultimate brain nurturer was studied extensively for 50 years. The effects one can experience are memory boost, improved cognition, reduced aggression, and even improved breath-holding time. Furthermore, the only so-called side effects that can rarely occur are a slightly upset stomach or a mild headache, but both pass quickly, with no body or brain injuries.
Choline Stands for Communication
We have already talked about neurotransmitters and the one in charge of various functions from memory to muscle control. Yes, the second most important neurotransmitter in our brains is Acetylcholine. However, when choline enters the scene, we get the effects of improved communication between nerves and neurons.
Choline users agree that this type of supplementation allows fast recall of information, apart from improved ability to focus and learn. This nootropic promotes good health and slows down the aging process of our brain. Chlorine comes in many forms, still, they are not all equally effective. So those who want to experience the gifts it has to offer must be careful in their search for the best choline supplementation.
Phenibut Brings Peace and Serenity
Once more, we have a product that is not actually on the list of nootropics, but works just like a powerful nootropic stimulant. Phenibut promotes tranquility and therefore improved cognitive abilities. It can be used as an anti-anxiety supplement or as an aid for a healthy sleep.
Phenibut is excellent for people suffering from social anxiety as medium doses help to reduce tense nerves. While higher doses will put you in a stress-free land of dreams. Thus, the phenibut dosage usually varies from 500-2,000 mg per day, depending on what you need.
Noopept Directs Thinking
The noopept story came to life when Russian scientists tried to make a Pramiracetam or a synthetic racetam prototype. So what is noopept again? Believe it or not, it is a peptide belonging to a group of racetams with slightly different effects.
Noopept is 500-1000 times stronger than piracetam, and it should, therefore, be consumed in the extremely miniature dosage of 10-30 mg. And the effects it provides include enhanced memory, focus, learning, and above all, direct thinking.
Apart from long-term memory functions and improved logical thinking, noopept also possess neuroprotective qualities, including enhanced recall abilities. Though, some users suggest it can sometimes have subtle psychostimulatory effects as well.
PRESCRIBED NOOTROPICS
There is a difference between non-prescription and prescription medication. While nootropics have minimum or no side effects whatsoever, with prescribed smart drugs comes a risk of addiction and multiple harmful side effects.
In the world of nootropics, these drugs include common psychostimulants for increasing focus in ADD and ADHD patients, as well as widely known drugs such as Ritalin, Adderall, and Dexedrine. The same applies for sleep disorders and Modafinil, which is quite popular among nootropic fans.
This drug is available only by prescription and the users can experience the same memory boost activities and a greater learning focus. Still, before this drug gathers a large base of followers, the Adrafinil was and still is a go-to drug to avoid the prescription obligations.
Although Adrafinil provides the same mental improvements, it needs to be taken in large amounts to achieve the same effects as Modafinil. Also, it is not recommended to use it continuously, but only in case one requires a temporary motivation boost.
SYNTHETIC VS. NATURAL NOOTROPICS
What have we learned so far? Among many things, we have established that piracetam was specially designed to enhance mental capabilities without side effects and potential damage to the body and brain. Anyone can use it safely work on their brain health and cognitive powers.
On the other hand, there are many natural nootropics with similar synthetic properties. But what about their slow and limited effects? This dilemma can easily be solved, because there is no reason to limit your mental progress. Hence, feel free to take the best of both worlds and find the nootropics best suited to your brain health and development.
All in all, the future of smarter, reasonable, and high-functioning humans is coming, and nootropics are here to prove it. Who doesn’t want better memory, improved recall, greater communication skills, and calmness to back all that knowledge up? And it all hides in non-toxic, harmless, brain supporting supplements, or smart drugs as the users love to call them.