While in school or sitting at work, many people find it difficult to concentrate. Other times they may find it difficult to stay awake or alert. Regardless of the when or where it is important to find ways to combat these problems. One way that has become increasingly popular is the use of nootropics also referred to as smart drugs. These are substances (usually naturally occurring) that, when ingested, enhance brain functions. Different substances have different effects, some help with concentration, some with remaining alert, some with general cognition, some with reaction time, and some are a combination. As nootropics become more popular, there are more being discovered. However, not just any new drug or substance can be marketed as an official nootropic, there is a list of criteria that must be met for a substance to be listed as a nootropic. There are some that people call a nootropic, but are not officially listed as one, be very cautious of these. If you are looking for information about popular and effective nootropics, you have come to the right place. Here, you will find a list of some of the most popular nootropics, what they are, how they work, and how effective they are. You will also find information about what exactly makes a substance a nootropic.

As previously stated, there is a very specific set of requirements that must all be met for a substance to be labeled a nootropic. The dictionary description does well in its definition of what a nootropic truly is. The dictionary describes nootropics thusly, "(of a drug) used to enhance memory or other cognitive functions". There are five requirements that a substance must meet. The first of these requirements is that the substance must have properties that enhance an individual's memory as well as their ability to learn. The second requirement is that the substance must have the ability to aid the individual's brain function even in the presence of a disruptive condition. Some examples of a disruptive condition are hypoxia which is low oxygen and electroconvulsive shock. The third requirement is the ability to protect the brain from chemical as well as physical assaults. The fourth is that it must be able to increase the efficacy or neuronal firing control mechanisms. The final requirement is the substance must provide little to no side effects and be non-toxic. Keep in mind that there are cognitive enhancers that are not technically nootropics because they do not meet the full requirement list. There are very few substances that do meet these requirements.

Here is a list of popular nootropics (and other cognitive enhancers).

Bacopa Monnieri - This substance is an herb that was commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to increase an individual's brain function. One of the compounds found in this nootropic, bacosides, has the ability to protect a person's brain from oxidative stress. It also has the ability to improve the signaling in the hippocampus. The hippocampus is an area of the brain whose job it is to process memories. This particular nootropic must be taken regularly for several months before the maximum benefit can be experienced. The main benefit of taking this substance is improved memory and information processing when taken appropriately.

L-Theanine - This substance is an amino acid that naturally occurs in tea. It is entirely possible for a person to simply drink a certain amount of tea to get the benefits of this substance, but it can also be purchased as a supplement. This substance has a calming effect without causing the individual to become drowsy. The recommended amount to take is approximately the equivalent of what would be present in two average sized cups of tea. This substance is effective on its own, but it becomes even more effective when taken in conjunction with caffeine. Taking this substance has been linked to increased creativity.

Creatine - This is another amino acid. This one is already found in the body, it is what makes protein within the human body. When this amino acid goes through the body, it enters the brain where it then pairs with phosphate which creates a molecule. This molecule is used by the brain to fuel its cells. This increased energy in the brain improves reasoning skills as well as short-term memory. This substance is particularly helpful for vegetarians and anyone under a great deal of stress. Five grams is the recommended dose of Creatine to take at a time. It is possible to take a higher dose, but there is not enough research to indicate what the long-term effects would be.

Caffeine - This particular substance is found in a great many places such as coffee, tea, cocoa, and kola nuts. This substance takes first place as the most consumed psychoactive substance in the entire world. Caffeine works very well on its own, but it has an even higher rate of effectiveness and a long list of benefits when combined with certain other substances. A prime example is to combine caffeine with L-Theanine. This nootropic blocks adenosine receptors in the brain which makes the individual feel less tired and drowsy. The benefits of this substance is an increase in alertness and attention as well as helping the individual to feel less tired. It does, however, occasionally decrease reaction time.
Panax Ginseng - This nootropic is a root and was often used for ancient medicinal purposes of boosting brain function. This substance has proven to aid an individual with the performance of difficult tasks. Mentally doing a difficult math problem is a great example. It will also help with brain fatigue. It is believed that this substance works due to its anti-inflammatory effects. There have been some long-term studies on this substance that shows the body can become used to taking the substance which will decrease its effectiveness. It is best, to keep this substance to occasional use.

There are a great many nootropics currently available and more being discovered all of the time. Most are found in naturally occurring products that are already being used by many people every day. Some examples of this are coffee and tea. This makes it easy to consume these substances on a daily basis, but there are also supplements available. There are some nootropics that must have a prescription to obtain, but most are available over the counter. If you would like to learn more about nootropics, head over to this website https://www.bestnootropicsnow.com/alpha-brain-review/ . You will find a whole host of incredibly useful information!

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