nootropics can help improve learning & memory

5 Ways Nootropics Can Increase Your Success In Business And Life

David Tomen
Author:
David Tomen
12 minute read

5 Ways Nootropics Can Help in Life & Business

Imagine being able to effortlessly tackle any business problem. The relationship with your significant other is like a romance novel. You come out of an intense study session with energy to spare. And you ace your next exam.

This is the advantage of using nootropic supplements. Decades of clinical research and user experience show that you can support your memory, concentrate longer, improve your mood and have sharper focus. Simply by choosing and using the right nootropics.

Nootropics can even help boost physical energy and support long-term brain health. But let’s be realistic about the limits of using any dietary supplement.

Nootropics alone will not turn a couch-potato into an Einstein. They cannot transform a jerk into a great lover. You will not ace your next exam if you’ve never attended a class or cracked a textbook.

But the right nootropic supplements can help you step up your game. By supporting optimal brain health and function. A powerful tool to help you live life at your absolute best.

Step Up Your Game With Nootropics

Next are five far-reaching brain benefits, examples of the nootropics that promote them, and strategies in putting select nootropics together in a stack to amplify their effects.

  1. Banish Brain Fog & Stay Energized All Day

I love the term “brain fog” because it describes exactly what it feels like to be mentally out of it. We’ve been conditioned to grab a coffee or energy drink to provide the jolt we need to get going.

But this could be more than simply an energy problem. It’s more like cloudy cognition. Our brain is stuck in 1st gear. We need a long-term solution to support our central nervous system and get our brain to shift into drive.

If you want to take a deeper look into what may be causing your brain fog, I encourage you to spend some time with this article:

Best Supplements for Brain Fog

And science shows the following nootropics will help revitalize your brain. Avoiding the need to default to caffeine or other stimulants.

  • Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR). One of my favorite nootropics, ALCAR increases memory, mental alertness, fluid thought and is a potent antioxidant. ALCAR boosts acetylcholine (ACh) and transports fatty acids through cell membranes into mitochondria for use as brain cell fuel.
  • Coenzyme Q10. Is a fat-soluble coenzyme found in mitochondria and is part of the electron transport chain. Contributing to the cellular respiration that generates energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
  • PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone). Is an enzyme cofactor active in every one of your cells. PQQ has the unique ability to create new mitochondria leading to more cellular energy. Resulting in quicker thinking, better memory, elevated alertness, less mental fatigue, and less brain fog!
  • R-Lipoic Acid. A cofactor for mitochondrial enzymes involved in carbohydrate energy production. R-Lipoic Acid activates choline acetyltransferase and increases in glucose uptake which supplies more Acetyl-CoA for the synthesis of acetylcholine. More cellular energy for quicker thinking and less brain fog.

You can get each of these nootropics and make your own energy stack. Or save time and money by getting Performance Lab® Energy. Which contains effective dosages of each of these nootropics.

But let’s be realistic here because even the most dedicated neurohacker sometimes needs an extra stimulant boost. And one of the safest, simplest and most effective nootropic stacks is caffeine + L-Theanine.

A smarter, cleaner caffeine +L-Theanine stimulant stack is now available. It’s called Performance Lab® Caffeine+. This unique stimulant supplement also contains L-Tyrosine with a B-Complex. Which counterbalances the stress caffeine can put on your system.

Caffeine+ provides a pure, clean energy boost when you want it without the jitters or anxiety often associated with caffeine.

supplements to reduce stress

  1. Stay Calm, Cool & Collected

The personal consequences of stress are brain fog, poor attention, mental fatigue, depression, and insomnia. It’s not only work that takes a hit. Our personal relationships suffer as well.

The World Health Organization has declared stress the “health epidemic of the 21st century”.[i] The term “work-life balance” that was coined back in the 90’s is only found in history books now.

Entire books have been written on how to deal with stress. The only way to turn it completely off is to leave the planet. Or become a Buddhist monk and live in a cave.

All kinds of things happen in our body and brain when we’re overwhelmed. Stress drains brainpower in part because it depletes catecholamines like dopamine and norepinephrine.[ii] Leading to short attention span, poor organization, and restlessness.

Poor cerebral blood flow, a lack of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor(BDNF), and mental fatigue from lack of cellular energy can wreak havoc in our brain from stress.

But we can turn to nootropics to help us deal with how we cope with stress. The right supplements will help you relax, and mange stress more effectively.

  • Aniracetam. Another of my favorite nootropics, this member of the racetam-family of nootropics is well known for helping anxiety and depression. Aniracetam activates dopamine D2 and D3 receptors. Improving cognition, learning, memory and mood. And turns the meter down on anxiety symptoms.
  • Ashwagandha. Used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine, this ancient nootropic helps relieve stress, fatigue, restores energy and concentration, and normalizes blood sugar.
  • Lemon Balm. From the mint family, Lemon Balm inhibits the GABA transaminase enzyme. Which in turn helps maintain adequate levels of GABA in your brain. Resulting in a calming effect and relieving anxiety and depression.
  • Sulbutiamine. Another of my favorite nootropics, Sulbutiamine is synthesized from Vitamin B1 (thiamine). It helps boost memory, motivation and is a heck of an antidepressant.

nootropics can increase motivation

  1. Increase Motivation and Get More Done

I remember a few years ago when I was diagnosed hypothyroid, it was another blow on top of being Adult ADD. The brain fog and fatigue were taking a toll on my career and marriage. The wind had been completely knocked out of my sails. And motivation to do anything was at an all-time low.

Fortunately, I was raised with a conviction that was lodged deep in my brain, “never give up”! Maybe you weren’t so lucky. If the idea of acting on a goal or idea never gets going for you. It falls under the “lacking motivation” category.

The good news is nootropics can help boost motivation too. We have tried-and-true hacks for that. More motivation will improve your productivity, your yearning to learn, and even put new life into your personal relationships.

Recent research has found that there’s more to motivation than boosting dopamine. For an in-depth investigation into the motivation missing link, see the post:

Hacking Motivation with Nootropics

Here are some examples of nootropics that can have you springing out of bed in the morning. Looking forward to another productive day.

  • Iodine. It’s highly unlikely that you’ll see Iodine on any nootropic list to boost motivation. But a malfunctioning thyroid which is often caused by not enough iodine results in poor cognition, difficulty learning, problems with recall, depression, anxiety and certainly a lack of motivation. Click on the link here > Iodine to learn more.
  • Resveratrol. Recent research shows this polyphenol works like an ampakine nootropic in the brain. Resveratrol is an inhibitor of enzyme PDE4 (Phosphodiesterase-4).[iii] Studies demonstrate that when you inhibit PDE4, you raise levels of cAMP in the brain. Inhibiting PDE4 and boosting cAMP also makes the effect of normal dopamine production more effective. Boosting processes in this stream of chemical pathways in the brain increases learning, memory and motivation.

nootropics - how to live in the flow

  1. Go Into Flow, Be Creative and Solve Problems

The flow state, or being “in the zone” is where you perform your best. And you feel your best. We’ve all experienced flow at some time in our life. A time when you were totally absorbed in what you were doing. It had your total attention. So focused that everything else disappeared.

When you’re in the zone, you accomplish tasks much more quickly than if you were constantly shifting from task to task.

A McKinsey & Co. report studied 5,000 executives during workshops. And concluded that senior executives in flow are 5-times better and more productive than those that aren’t.[iv]

Recent research has revealed what is happening during flow. And has even identified the variables you can influence to go into the zone more often.

For an in-depth look into the neurobiology of flow, how to recognize it, and a detailed examination of the nootropics we can use to enter this ultimate state of consciousness, go to:

How to Hack Your Flow State with Nootropics

Nootropics used to influence the flow state affect dopamine, endorphins, nitric oxide, serotonin and brain waves. The following are just a few of the nootropics that can boost each in your brain.

  • Mucuna Pruriens (L-Dopa). Mucuna works as an antioxidant and heavy metal chelator, improves memory and cognition, reduces depression and boosts libido. L-Dopa is also the precursor to dopamine. Adequate levels of dopamine and norepinephrine are required to go into flow.
  • Oat Straw. This MAO-B inhibitor increase dopamine levels in your brain. It also helps boost nitric oxide and inhibits the enzyme PDE4 which helps dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow.[v] Boosting cerebral circulation keeps things flowing smoothly to prepare you for the full flow experience.
  • Picamilon. This nootropic is used to boost GABA in your brain and helps produce Alpha brain waves. Picamilon also helps produce the endorphins that make you feel good during and after a flow state.
  • Ginseng. Ginseng does double-duty during the flow state. This adaptogen provides neuro-protection on the dopaminergic-pathway. And is a potent serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).[vi] Working as an antidepressant and contributing to a great conclusion to flow.
  • L-Theanine. Commonly found in green tea, L-Theanine helps boost GABA, serotonin and dopamine in your brain. It also helps raise Alpha brain waves.[vii] Creating a “wakeful relaxation” mindset associated with free-flowing creativity and abstract thinking.

nootropics can help improve learning & memory

  1. Remember More, Learn Better, Forget Less

Nootropic supplements have grown in popularity primarily as a way to boost learning, memory and recall. Memory affects every aspect of our lives, all day, every day.

Just think about the last time you stepped out of a mall and wondered where you’d parked your car. Or the grief you went through because you forgot an anniversary or birthday. All the things you have to remember simply to do your job.

With better memory you excel in school. Career prospects and advancement put you ahead. And relationships are easier.

For a more detailed look into how memories are formed in your brain, how neuroplasticity affects memory, the molecular biology involved in memory, and a list of nootropics that have been proven to help learning and memory, check out:

Best Nootropics for Learning and Memory

Here are some of the nootropics that can have a profound effect on learning and memory.

  • Bacopa Monnieri. Often referred to as “Brahmi”, Bacopa was first mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts. In was recommended to devotees to help memorize long passages of text. Research shows Bacopa slows the rate at which we forget newly acquired knowledge.[viii] It improves learning and memory.[ix] And even helps cognitive performance when we’re under pressure.[x]
  • Gotu Kola. This ancient nootropic is often called “the student herb” in Bali. Because it sharpens the mind. Gotu kola extract increases dendrite and axon growth in brain cells which helps memory. Gotu kola also helps prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine. Enhancing mood, cognition, memory and learning. And preventing degenerative brain diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Hacking Your Brain for Success

Are you ready to step up your game? How about kicking depression to the curb. Say good-bye to anxiety once-and-for-all. Go into flow and start getting things done.

A thoughtfully selected combination of nootropics can change your life. All it takes is a willingness to take the next step.

Do your research on the nootropics described in this post. Look at the areas you’d like to improve in your life. Then go to your favorite vitamin shop or natural foods store. Ask for help if you need to. And choose the highest quality supplements you can afford.

Follow dosage recommendations. Make sure you’re not taking something that interacts with other meds you’re on. And join a growing community of neurohackers. Ordinary people who want the best from life. Those of us who will do what it takes to live up to our potential.

Imagine that a small stack of nootropics just might make you a more effective version of yourself. What are you waiting for?

 

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may also contain other affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

[i] Fink G. “Stress: The Health Epidemic of the 21st Century” Elsevier SciTech Connect April 26, 2016 scitechconnect.elsevier.com (source)

[ii] Ranabir S, Reetu k. “Stress and hormones.” Indian Journal of Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2011 Jan-Mar; 15(1): 18–22. (source)

[iii] Li Y.F., Cheng Y.F., Huang Y., Conti M., Wilson S.P., O’Donnell J.M., Zhang H.T. “Phosphodiesterase-4D knock-out and RNA interference-mediated knock-down enhance memory and increase hippocampal neurogenesis via increased cAMP signaling.” Journal of Neuroscience. 2011 Jan 5;31(1):172-83 (source)

[iv] Cranston S., Keller S. “Increasing the ‘meaning quotient’ of work” McKinsey Quarterly January 2013 (source)

[v] Nie L., Wise M.L., Peterson D.M., Meydani M. “Avenanthramide, a polyphenol from oats, inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and enhances nitric oxide production.” Atherosclerosis. 2006 Jun;186(2):260-6 (source)

[vi] Niederhofer H. “Panax ginseng may improve some symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.” Journal of Dietary Supplements. 2009;6(1):22-7. (source)

[vii] Gomez-Ramirez M, Higgins B.A., Rycroft J.A., Owen G.N., Mahoney J., Shpaner M., Foxe J.J. “The deployment of intersensory selective attention: a high-density electrical mapping study of the effects of theanine.” Clinical Neuropharmacology. 2007 Jan-Feb;30(1):25-38. (source)

[viii] Roodenrys S., Booth D., Bulzomi S., Phipps A., Micallef C., Smoker J. “Chronic effects of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) on human memory.” Neuropsychopharmacology. 2002 Aug;27(2):279-81. (source)

[ix] Stough C., Lloyd J., Clarke J., Downey L.A., Hutchison C.W., Rodgers T., Nathan P.J. “The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects.” Psychopharmacology (Berlin). 2001 Aug;156(4):481-4. (source)

[x] Rai D., Bhatia G., Palit G., Pal R., Singh S., Singh H.K. “Adaptogenic effect of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi).” Pharmacology and Biochemistry of Behavior. 2003 Jul;75(4):823-30. (source)

[xi] Uebel-von Sandersleben H., Rothenberger A., Albrecht B., Rothenberger L.G., Klement S., Bock N. “Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® in children with ADHD.” Z Kinder Jugendpsychiatry Psychotherapy. 2014 Sep;42(5):337-47. (source)

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Join The Discussion - 4 comments

sarishna
January 14, 2021

Hi there. What do you think of this premade stack: Phenylpiracetam 100mg
Coluracetam 10mg
CDP
Tianeptine Sulfate 15mg
Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Coenzyme Q10
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
N-Acetylcysteine
PQQ 5mg
My main aim is to be awake and studying for long hours 12-18 hours and to improve memory. Can I add vinpocetine to this stack or is it better to do one day of this stack and one day of vinpocetine alone? Or can this stack be used daily for a period of two weeks? Lastly how will I know if you have replied to my comment? Will you be able to email me a reply.

    David Tomen
    January 14, 2021

    Sarishna, you can safely use Vinpocetine with this stack. The only problem I see with this if you want to improve memory is it doesn’t contain anything too boost dopamine. And there is no indication of the amounts of each of these ingredients.

    I suggest you compare each ingredient in this list with my review on that nootropic. Specifically look at “Dosage Notes” and see what an effective dose is for each ingredient. And add 500 mg L-Tyrosine to boost dopamine which is also required for memory.

MAAAX
January 11, 2021

I’ve been trying Alpha GPC from this site: Cerebra Alpha GPC. Do you reckon I’m getting a good deal?

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