Mental performance and focus

Cognitive enhancers

Cognitive enhancers are medications that certain people use to try to strengthen their memory, increase their mental alertness and attention, and increase their energy levels and wakefulness. There are different cognitive enhancers. Some are pharmaceutical medications used to treat sleepiness or narcolepsy, as well as to increase concentration and focus in people with attention disorders. Some healthy people, however, use these medications to try to increase their cognitive performance.

Supplements Best for Cognitive Efforts:

1. Fish Oils

Fish oil supplements are a rich source of two types of omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. These fatty acids have been related to a variety of health benefits, including increased brain health. Docosahexaenoic acid is essential for the structure and function of your brain.

Benefits of Fish Oils

 Docosahexaenoic acid plays an important role in maintaining the structure and function of your brain. It accounts for approximately 25% of total fat and 90% of omega-3 fat contained in brain cells. While docosahexaenoic acid, has anti-inflammatory effects that protect the brain against damage as well as aging.

Side effects of Fish Oils

Taking a dose of fish oil which is more than 3 grams a day can increase the risk of bleeding.

2. Resveratrol

Resveratrol is an antioxidant that naturally occurs in fruits those have red and purple skin like grapes, raspberries. It is also found in chocolate, red wine, and peanuts.

Benefits of Resveratrol

It has been recommended that taking resveratrol supplements can help to prevent the weakening of the hippocampus, which is an important part of the brain associated with memory.

Side effects of Resveratrol

Studies have not found any significant side effects when resveratrol is taken in large doses. On the other hand, these supplements can interact with blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin) and NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen. Therefore, the risk of bleeding may increase.

3. Caffeine

Caffeine is a natural stimulant that can be found in a variety of foods, including tea, coffee, and dark chocolate. While it is possible to take it as a supplement, but there is no need to when these sources are available.

Benefits of Caffeine

It works by relaxing the central nervous system and brain, that makes you feel more active and less tired. In fact, the studies have shown that caffeine can make you feel more energized and improve your memory, reaction times and general functions of brain.

Side effects of Caffeine

Caffeine overdose has been related to side effects such as anxiety, nausea, and difficulty sleeping.

4. Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid. It covers and preserves the brain’s cells while still carrying messages between them. According to animal research, the amount of this substance in the brain decreases with age. Phosphatidylserine is a type of phospholipid that can be found in the brain.

Benefits of Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine supplements have been recommended as a possible way to maintain brain health. Taking 100 mg of phosphatidylserine three times a day has been shown in studies to help minimize age-related reduction in brain function.

Side effects of Phosphatidylserine

 Phosphatidylserine can cause insomnia and stomach upset, particularly at doses greater than 300 mg. There is some concern that animal-derived products could spread diseases like mad cow disease. There have been no reported cases of humans contracting animal diseases because of taking phosphatidylserine supplements.

References

Cognitive enhancers – Alcohol and Drug Foundation. (2019). Retrieved from Adf.org.au website: https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/cognitive-enhancers/

Fulghum, D. (2009, January 26). Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplements for Heart Disease. Retrieved from WebMD website: https://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/guide/omega-3-fish-oil-supplements-for-high-blood-pressure

PHOSPHATIDYLSERINE: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.webmd.com website: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-992/phosphatidylserine

The 10 Best Nootropic Supplements to Boost Brain Power. (2016, November 26). Retrieved April 29, 2021, from Healthline website: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-nootropic-brain-supplements#TOC_TITLE_HDR_5

Watson, S. (2009, October 20). Resveratrol Supplements. Retrieved from WebMD website: https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/resveratrol-supplements