Nootropics are any compounds, supplements, or drugs produced to improve cognitive function. They're used by people worldwide to improve creativity, motivation, and intelligence. Along with supercharging productivity,
nootropics can make you less stressed and smarter, says holistic health professional Shari Auth.
"Nootropics provide a number of cognitive benefits, such as quicker reaction time, improved performance, improved memory, and reduced mental fatigue and fog. A few nootropics are also adaptogenic, which means they help your body manage stress."
Since there are so many drugs, plants, and substances that offer these benefits, there remains discussion about what is and isn't a nootropic. This can all be clarified by psychologist and chemist Dr. Corneliu Giurgea, the first nootropics researcher. He explained that nootropics must meet a number of features to be classified as such. Based on this definition, a true nootropic will offer:
- Supplementing With Organic Nootropics
- Improved Learning And Short-Term
- Memory Retention
- No Adverse Effects
- Mental Cell Protection And Communication
- Improved Resilience To Stress Hormones And Tension
While Nootropics can have lots of benefits for brain health, they should not be used as an alternative to healthy habits. Getting adequate sleep, eating a nutritious diet and managing stress are fundamental for achieving optimal cognitive performance, says Dr. John P. DiMarco, PhD, at the University of Maryland. After a person incorporates these changes into their life, nootropics can serve as an additional bonus for improving mental sharpness and reducing mental fatigue.
There are countless brain boosters available, however some have safety concerns and negative effects. That's why it is important to understand what to consider when starting a search for nootropic supplements. The first distinction to make is between synthetic and natural nootropics.