Whether it’s to boost mental clarity, focus, and creativity or simply to reduce memory issues associated with aging, nootropic supplements are a growing trend. But not everyone understands the science behind this cognitive-enhancing class of natural and synthetic substances, according to a new report by Mintel.
WholisticResearch have gained popularity in today’s highly competitive society and are most often used to promote healthy brain function in people who don’t have a medical condition like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or other conditions that require prescription nootropic drugs. These supplements and medications are most commonly available in dietary form, including caffeine, L-theanine, choline and creatine monohydrate.
From Coffee to Adaptogens: A Comprehensive Guide to Navigating the World of Nootropic Supplements
There are also many “homemade” stacks on the market, which involve combining multiple ingredients to enhance cognition. This is a popular approach among nootropic enthusiasts, and it’s easy to find recipes and formulas online. However, D’Adamo warns that most of these homemade stacks haven’t been subjected to well-designed human studies. And he says taking too many nootropics can be counterproductive since you’ll build up a tolerance to them over time.
Prescription nootropics, such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and racetams, have been shown to improve mental processing in older adults who have mild cognitive decline or are recovering from a stroke. But they’re not effective for most younger, healthy people. And they should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision because they can have dangerous interactions with other medicines and increase the risk of impulsive behaviors.