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Nootropic forums and blogs often describe depression as a neurotransmitter imbalance in the brain. And then offer suggestions on various nootropics for major depressive disorder or drugs to help lift your mood and reduce depression.
But this simplistic view of depression misses the complexity of this disease.
Recent research has shown that depression can have many possible causes. Including out of whack mood regulation by your brain, genetic problems, stressful events or living conditions, prescription medications or other medical problems causing cognitive impairments.
It’s true that neurotransmitters are involved in the process that contributes to depression. But it’s usually not a matter of one neurotransmitter being too low or another too high.
Here’s the thing. You have several neurotransmitter systems, amino acids, hormones and other neurochemicals working both inside and outside neurons.
The interaction of these neurochemical reactions make up a highly dynamic system that contributes to your mood. And how you perceive and experience life.
With this level of complexity, you may have similar symptoms of depression to the person next to you. But the issues in your brain and body may be completely different. So what works best for someone else experiencing your symptoms may not be best option for you.
And this is why we often say in the nootropic community that Your Mileage May Vary (YMMV) when describing a particular nootropic supplement. And how it feels.
In this article you’ll discover other possible causes contributing to your depression. How to recognize them. How to use nootropic supplements to test different possible causes so you can narrow down what may be causing your depression.
And I’ll share some nootropic supplement suggestions that may help relieve your depression symptoms for a better quality of life.
Depression and Neurogenesis
It turns out that brain cell signaling, neurogenesis and the function of neuronal circuits may play a more important role in depression than simply the levels of serotonin or dopamine.
For example, researchers in Munich studied 24 women who had a history of depression. And on average, their hippocampus was 9 – 13% smaller in the depressed women compared to healthy women. And the more bouts of depression a woman had, their hippocampus was even smaller compared to less depressed women in the study.[i]
We know that stress can play a role in depression and on your central nervous system. And research has shown that stress can suppress neurogenesis. Which would account for the smaller hippocampus in these women.
We also know that Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a naturally occurring protein in your brain, is critical for preventing apoptosis (brain cell death), is required for the growth of new neurons (neurogenesis) and the growth and maintenance of synapses.
Please check out my article on “13 Nootropics to Boost BDNF”. Increasing BDNF is one way to combat depression. Below I’ll share a list of nootropics for you to try some of which also help to increase levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) among other benefits for a healthy brain.
If you’ve ever tried antidepressants for alleviating depressive symptoms, you know that it often takes weeks to feel any benefit. Scientists have a theory that the value of some of these medications may be in generating new neurons (neurogenesis), strengthening neuron connections, and improving brain cell signaling. Which often takes time before you can feel the result.
So now researchers speculate that new medications could be developed to specifically promote neurogenesis. As it turns out, we already have this ability with several natural nootropic supplements.
Depression and Neurotransmitters
We know that neurotransmitter dysfunction is not the only cause of depression. But we can’t discount their importance either.
Neurons are designed to communicate with each other. When a neuron is activated, it passes an ‘action potential’, which is a tiny electrical signal, down its axon to the axon terminal (synapse). Neurotransmitters are stored in synaptic vesicles.
The action potential (electrical signal) releases certain neurotransmitters into the synapse. Which then sends it over to a synapse on a dendrite connected to the receiving neuron. As the concentration of neurotransmitters rise in the synapse, they bind to receptors embedded in the membranes of the two neurons.
This release of a neurotransmitter from one neuron can activate or inhibit the second neuron. Once the first neuron has released a certain amount of neurotransmitter molecules, a feedback mechanism instructs the transmitting neuron to stop releasing neurotransmitter molecules and begin bringing them back into the 1st neuron. This process is called reuptake.
In those who are severely depressed or manic, this fine-tuned system of neuro-signaling can go out of whack. Either too much or too little of the neurotransmitter is released.
Or if the reuptake is overly efficient and mops up too many neurotransmitter molecules before they have a chance to bind to receptors. It can have a significant impact on mood.
The primary neurotransmitters that can play a role in depression include:
Each one of these neurotransmitters can be boosted, or their reuptake affected by nootropic supplements (listed below).
Depressive Symptoms and Prescription Medication
Depression can result as a side effect of certain prescription drugs. These drugs can include antimicrobials, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, heart and blood pressure drugs, hormones, insomnia drugs, tranquilizers, antacids, narcotic pain drugs and more.
We know from experience that many of these prescription drugs may be replaced by safer, natural nootropic supplements.
But I am NOT encouraging you to stop using whatever meds you’re currently on. Without consulting with your doctor first. I am encouraging you to learn about and possibly try safer alternatives that often do the job just as well and will enhance your brain health.
CAUTION: many nootropic supplements are contraindicated with prescription SSRIs, MAOIs, tricyclics, and others that work on the same neurotransmitter system. Combining any of these ‘natural’ nootropic supplements with the wrong drug can do serious harm. Including ending your life. Please, please read the Side Effects section of each nootropic review here on Nootropics Expert®. And if in doubt please ask me and consult with your doctor before trying a nootropic if you are using any of these prescription meds.
Depression and Stress
Nearly all of us experience stressful events. And while not every one of us who faces stress develops depressive disorders or other mental disorders. Stress however often does play an important role in depression.
Depending on how sensitive you are to stress, along with messed up neurochemistry and even genetics. A perfect storm of any or all of these influencing factors can lead to depression.
So, please read my extended article on “Best Nootropics for Anxiety” which includes several nootropic supplements that may help you deal with and conquer stress and even boosts your mental performance.
Recommended Nootropics for Depression and Enhance Cognitive Performance
If you are currently being treated for depression. Or suspect you may be dealing with undiagnosed depression. And are looking for a more natural, safer way to treat your symptoms. Nootropics may be the answer.
You’re not alone looking for a natural alternative to drugs that often often associated with a host of side effects. Research in the United States and other countries show that significant numbers of people use ‘alternative medicine’ to treat their depression.
Researchers conducted a survey of more than 3,000 women in the USA to find out how many turned to alternative medicine for depression. Of the 220 women who said they had been officially diagnosed with depression, 54% said they used alternative medicine to treat their symptoms.[ii]
We have found that the following list of nootropics work well for different types and causes of depression.
As I mentioned before, your mileage may vary. What works for me may not work for you. Wise and careful experimentation is critical to finding a safer alternative for treating your depression.
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- Aniracetam – A member of the racetam-family of nootropics, Aniracetam works with dopamine D2 and D3 receptors in your brain. And desensitizes AMPA (glutamate) receptors which can help control glutamate toxicity.Aniracetam is one of the most effective antidepressants I’ve even tried. And its effects on dopamine in your brain can have a profound effect on anxiety symptoms as well.
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- Bacopa Monnieri – One of the most powerful herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. Bacopa Monnieri has been used for millennia to relieve anxiety, fatigue, restore energy and boost concentration.This adaptogen has been shown in clinical studies to work as well for depression as benzodiazepines and tricyclic antidepressants.[iii]
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- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) – CoQ10 contributes to your cell’s natural source of energy. Producing ATP in your mitochondria by taking fat and converting it into usable energy. CoQ10 preserves brain function, helps fight mental illness and migraines.Major depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are now being recognized as having mitochondrial dysfunction in common. With higher oxidative stress levels.[iv] Studies show that 1,200 mg per day of CoQ10 in bipolar adults experienced a significant reduction in depression.[v]
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- 5-HTP – I do NOT recommend using 5-HTP for treating depression. But only include it here since it is marketed as a “natural antidepressant”.This amino acid is naturally produced in your body. And synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan which you get from food. 5-HTP is the precursor needed to produce the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter serotonin. But a summary published in the Alternative Medicine Review noted a lack of evidence for ‘loading’ precursors to treat depression.[vi] Combining 5-HTP with SSRI’s, Tricyclics or MAOI’s will cause Serotonin Syndrome which can be deadly.
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- Ginkgo Biloba – This tree native to China has been used for thousands of years to boost mental alertness, improve cerebral circulation and for better overall brain function. Many have found Ginkgo Biloba to be very effective for reducing anxiety and stress. And for boosting mood.1,570 men and women in England participated in a study using 120 mg of Ginkgo Biloba extract daily for 4, 6, and 10 months. Those who used Gingko Biloba the longest experienced the most improvement improvements for anxiety, depression, energy, drowsiness, sadness and happiness.[vii]
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- Iodine – Did you know that iodine deficient populations are up to 13.5 IQ points less than those with optimal iodine levels in their system?[viii] Since iodine has largely been removed from table salt in some countries, it has been suggested that iodine deficiency is epidemic. Particularly in countries like the United States.Iodine is essential to thyroid health and the production of thyroid hormones. Nearly every tissue in your body relies on thyroid hormones for healthy function. Not enough iodine can result in hypothyroidism. Negatively affecting acetylcholine synthesis in your brain. Affecting cognition, learning and memory, recall and mood.
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- Kava – Kava is native to the South Pacific. And the islanders use kava for its sedative effects. Kava can help reduce anxiety and depression. Unlike benzodiazepines, Kava does not impair cognitive function. In fact, studies show that not only will Kava improve mood. It may also boost cognitive function as well.[ix]
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- Lion’s Mane Mushroom – Also called the “smart mushroom”, Lion’s Mane boosts brain nerve growth factor which increases neurogenesis. Lion’s Mane can help improve focus and attention, boost thinking and processing speed, repair brain cells, and help relieve anxiety and depression.Women in Japan received Lion’s Mane-laced cookies for 4 weeks during a clinical trial. The researchers found that Lion’s Mane reduced anxiety and depression in these women during the trial.[x]
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- Magnesium – Lack of adequate magnesium can result in brain fog, anxiety and depression. Plasticity of neuron synapses is affected by having enough magnesium in brain cells.A study was conducted with 5,708 people in Norway. The aim of the study was to examine the association between magnesium intake and depression and anxiety. The researchers found that low magnesium intake is related to depression.[xi]
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- Mucuna Pruriens (L-DOPA) – L-DOPA is synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine in your body. And is a precursor to the formation of dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine in your brain.Mucuna Pruriens has been used in Ayurveda medicine since 1500 B.C. For treating things like snakebite, intestinal problems, sexual issues and melancholy mood. Research shows that supplementing with L-DOPA extracted from Mucuna Pruriens can be a great natural antidepressant if you are low in dopamine.[xii]
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- N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC) – NAC is an amino acid that regulates the amount of glutamate and dopamine in your brain. It helps restore dysfunctional dopamine receptors. And is a precursor to Glutathione which is your master antioxidant needed to reduce free radicals and oxidative stressA study with 75 subjects with bipolar disorder were given 1 gram of NAC twice daily for 24 weeks. Treatment with NAC resulted in a significant improvement with depression in these patients.[xiii]
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- N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT) – NALT is a highly bioavailable form of the amino acid L-Tyrosine. Your brain uses tyrosine to produce dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine is involved in libido, memory, focus, goal-oriented concentration, is a mood elevator and antidepressant.If you are ADHD, or have other issues with low dopamine, supplementing with NALT or L-Tyrosine may help improve your memory, boost your IQ, and relieve depression. I highly recommend NALT or L-Tyrosine for anyone using stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin for treating ADHD.
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- Nefiracetam – One of the newer members of the racetam-family of nootropics, Nefiracetam is used clinically to treat and prevent seizures, severe depression and has shown neuroprotective qualities.The structure of Nefiracetam is similar to the other great racetam antidepressant Aniracetam. Researchers at the University of Iowa did a trial with 159 stroke patients with major depression. The study concluded that Nefiracetam produced a significant improvement in the most severely depressed patients.[xiv]
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- Noopept – This peptide-derived nootropic related to the racetam-family is much more potent than Piracetam. But its mechanism of action in your brain is similar to other racetams.Noopept stimulates dopamine, nicotinic and serotonin receptors. It boosts cognition, memory, logical thinking, reflexes and mood.[xv] Noopept increases Alpha brain waves and Beta brain waves. Increasing relaxation. Alpha brain waves increase relaxation and the Beta brain waves assist with your state of alertness and mental clarity. Both of these combined can move you into super-learning, flow states and joy.
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- Phenylalanine – This amino acid is a precursor to tyrosine in your brain. Tyrosine helps in the synthesis of dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.One study was done with 23 patients diagnosed with depression who had not responded to standard antidepressants. They were given 50 or 100 mg of Phenylalanine daily for 15 days. The researchers found that Phenylalanine completely improved mood in 17 of the patients. Within 13 days of the 15-day trial.[xvi]
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- Rhodiola Rosea – Rhodiola Rosea activates AMPA receptors in your brain. Which can decrease depression and stress-related mood swings, reduces fatigue, stimulates energy and alertness, boosts cognition, and motivation.A clinical trial with 57 patients diagnosed with depression were given Rhodiola Rosea extract, sertraline (Zoloft®), or a placebo for 12 weeks. The study found that Rhodiola Rosea was slightly less effective than sertraline for depression. But produced far fewer side effects and was better tolerated.[xvii]
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- SAM-e – SAM-e is the naturally occurring amino acid methionine bound to an ATP molecule. It helps in the process of cell division and repair, and the generation of the neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and melatonin. Which is why it’s considered a potent nootropic.SAM-e is used to boost mood, relieve depression, improve energy levels and reduce symptoms of fibromyalgia. 20 healthy volunteers took part in a study receiving infusions of 800 mg of SAM-e or a placebo for 7 days. EEG mapping during the study identified SAM-e as an antidepressant. Targeting brain regions crucial in the therapeutic efficacy of antidepressants.[xviii]
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- St. John’s wort – This herb has traditionally been used for mood disorders and wound healing. Today it’s used mostly as a treatment for anxiety, depression and stress.St. John’s wort works like prescription SSRI’s by preventing the reuptake of serotonin in your brain. But please read the precautions for using this nootropic in the extended article. Before trying it as a nootropic supplement to treat your depression.
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- Sulbutiamine – Sulbutiamine is a synthesized version of Vitamin B1 (thiamine) which easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. As a nootropic, it’s used to boost mood, memory and motivation.A study at the University of Wales Swansea in the UK worked with 120 young adult females. Study participants took either a placebo or 50 mg thiamine for 2 months. Mood, memory and reaction times were monitored before and after taking the tablets. 2 months after supplementing with thiamine, participants were more clearheaded, felt more composed and energetic, reaction times improved, and mood was better.[xix]
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- Tryptophan – This essential amino acid is a precursor to serotonin, melatonin and niacin (Vitamin B3) in your body. Adding tryptophan to your stack can help boost your serotonin levels. And should help with anxiety, ADHD, depression, insomnia, memory loss, pain and eating disorders.
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- Turmeric– Turmeric is one of the main spices in curries. In parts of India where curries are eaten most often, Alzheimer’s disease is extremely rare. This spice (and its extract called curcumin) has a unique ability to reduce inflammation common to Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and brain tumors.A study conducted in India looked at the efficacy and safety of using curcumin, the main active ingredient found in turmeric, for treating major depression.60 depressed patients took either 20 mg of Prozac®, 1000 mg of curcumin, or a combination of both daily for 6 weeks. The best response during the trial was with patients using the combination. And the researchers concluded that curcumin could be used as an effective and safe treatment for patients with major depression.
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- Uridine Monophosphate – This precursor to Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) provides instructions from your DNA to help create memory by facilitating connections between brain neurons (synapses).Uridine supplementation as a nootropic uplifts and stabilizes mood, is anti-stress, helps Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), is anti-anxiety and helps modulate and normalize dopamine release.[xx]
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- Vitamin B6 – Vitamin B6 helps your brain make serotonin, norepinephrine and melatonin. The activated form of Vitamin B6 called P-5-P is particularly effective in boosting serotonin and GABA in your brain.For depression, look for a P-5-P supplement or a B-Complex formula that uses P-5-P.
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- Vitamin B12 – This B-vitamin plays a key role in the efficient conversion of carbohydrates to glucose which contributes to cellular fuel production (ATP). It helps your body convert fatty acids into energy.Supplementing with Vitamin B12 can help lower anxiety, and elevate alertness, cognition, energy, vision, elevate mood and relieve insomnia. No more mood swings!
Depressed No More
Nootropics can be a strong alternative to many antidepressant medications currently prescribed by doctors. And promoted by the Big Pharmaceutical companies.
But a very strong word of caution – if you are currently using any prescription antidepressant medications. Or any medication for that matter. Research each nootropic including side effects and prescription drug interactions before using them.
To finally beat depression, you must figure out the root cause of it. It is pointless to try otherwise without doing your research. Experiment with various nootropic supplements until you find what works for you.
Good luck in your search. There is hope. I know because I’ve conquered my own depression. And came out the other side better than before.
Join The Discussion - 330 comments
Natalie
January 10, 2020
Thank you for sharing, I am just learning about this topic and experimenting for optional mental health for myself. I have discontinued Zoloft and began taking a 5htp supplement. Overall very happy, but noticing fatigue. I tried a L Tyrosine supplement, which my body seemed to react both good ( at times, stretches of calm focus) but overall not well ( difficultly breathing, feelings of despair and anxiety.) this is the first time I am hearing 5 htp is not the way to go. Should i switch to tryptophan instead? Does taking tryptophan not require dopamine support?
David Tomen
January 11, 2020
Natalie, 5-HTP is not a great choice because it is difficult to get the dose correct. And clinical studies as well as user accounts report that consistent daily usage of 5-HTP backfires on people because it stops providing any benefit after a few weeks.
L-Tryptophan is a far safer choice for raising serotonin. And can be used daily for years if you follow dosage recommendations and learn what dose works best for you.
And you are correct that dopamine and serotonin must be in balance. Excess dopamine depresses serotonin and the reverse is true as well.
But if you are already low in serotonin you may not need L-Tyrosine to raise dopamine because your levels are already optimal.
Maciej
December 19, 2019
Hi David,
What are advisable nootropics for higher serotonin levels?
I seem to feel worse after all medications that touch or increase dopamine so I would like to avoid such nootropics, but I need ones that work for serotonin, and maybe noradrenaline. Recently I started taking Rhadiola but only for 3 days. I was thinking about adding L-theanine but it seems to affect dopamine and serotonin mainly if I’am correct?
I also noticed bad reaction after taking NAC so I want to avoid similar nootropics to NAC.
Can I connect taking Ashwaganda with Rhadiola? Or better Rhadiola and L-theanine.
Best
David Tomen
December 19, 2019
Maciej, the simplest way to increase serotonin is using its precursor: L-Tryptophan (https://nootropicsexpert.com/tryptophan/)
Tom
October 28, 2019
I will get gloomy if I consume caffeine and do not exercise. It takes about 3 weeks for the gloom to appear. Once I stop the caffeine and start exercising I start to feel good in 2-3 weeks. As I am pushing 70 now my knees prevent me from being as active as I once was. Also I love how coffee let’s me focus but must avoid it for the reason above. Got any suggestions? Thanks
David Tomen
October 29, 2019
Tom, first you need to know what you are dealing with and this post will help with that: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-the-aging-brain/
If you used the suggestions in that post it may take 1 – 3 weeks of consistent use. But it wouldn’t be long before you no longer feel gloomy.
noel
October 3, 2019
Hi David. What do you think about the following as a daily stack for depression, mood, and focus : ALCAR, NALT, Alpha GPC, Aniracetam, Uridine, Sulbutiamin, Phosphotadylserine, Theanine, Fish Oil, and Multivitamin ? Thank you.
David Tomen
October 5, 2019
Noel, should definitely improve focus. But for mood aka depression you’ll need to try it and see what happens.
As detailed in this post depression has any number of causes. If this stack nails it then you’re good. But if there’s still some depression hanging around you’ll need to revisit the elements of this stack you are using for depression. Let me know if you need any help.
noel
November 2, 2019
Hi David. Is it safe and effective to take L-Tryptophan every night before bedtime to facilitate sleep and serotonin? Thank you.
David Tomen
November 3, 2019
Noel, taking L-Tryptophan before bedtime is the safest way to boost serotonin and facilitate sleep. And it very effective. I’ve been using it for the last couple of years as part of my “sleep stack”. And it works.
noel
November 5, 2019
Hi David. If I am taking L-Tryptophan every night before bedtime, do I need to be taking NALT every morning in a corresponding move to avoid an imbalance in dopamine and serotonin? Thank you.
David Tomen
November 6, 2019
Noel, maybe and maybe not. It depends on things like your unique brain chemistry, lifestyle, living environment, etc.
I suggest learning to recognize the side effects of excess serotonin. And if you experience any of them then consider adding NALT.
Of course there is no harm in doing both right now as long as you’re following dosage recommendations. And if these nootropics agree with you.
noel
November 8, 2019
Hi David. Is it safe and effective to take Alpha GPC 150mg every day without a racetam? I know that a lot of people take a choline source such as Alpha GPC primarily to avoid a headache while taking a racetam, but is Alpha GPC on its own right an effective supplement for mood and focus? Thank you.
David Tomen
November 8, 2019
Noel, it sure is a great nootropic on its own. You can read the full review here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/alpha-gpc/. Then scroll down to the section: “How does Alpha GPC feel?”.
Alpha GPC suggested dosage for cognitive benefits is 400 – 1,200 mg per day. With higher dosages split into 2 or 3 smaller doses during the day.
noel
November 10, 2019
Hi David. I believe ALCAR, NALT, and Alpha GPC are all water-soluble and should be taken with water on empty stomach before breakfast. Is it safe and effective to take all 3 together as part of a daily stack before breakfast? Thank you.
David Tomen
November 10, 2019
Noel, I imagine there may be some competition for transporters between them but I find they work just as well when taken together.
noel
November 14, 2019
Hi David. Just wanted to share with you a daily stack that I have been using recently with much success as far as focus and general well-being. Before breakfast on empty stomach, I am taking ALCAR (1 gram), NALT (400 mg), Alpha GPC (300 mg), and Theanine (200 mg). Then after breakfast, I am taking Vitamin D (5000 iu), Fish Oil (1 gram combined EPA/DHA), multivitamin, and 2 cups of coffee. Finally, before bedtime, I am taking L-Tryptophan (500 mg). Tell me what looks good here and please suggest anything that you think might help. Thank you.
David Tomen
November 15, 2019
Noel, if this stack is working well for you then it sounds like you have issues with dopamine and acetylcholine. So look for other nootropics that help support those neurotransmitters and their receptors.
noel
January 24, 2020
Hi David. Last night, to facilitate sleep before bedtime, I took 500 mg of L-Tryphtophan and 3mg of sublingual melatonin. Is that safe? I actually slept incredibly well, but want to make sure that its safe to take both at the same time and avoid the dreaded “serotonin syndrome” that I’ve heard about. Thank you.
David Tomen
January 26, 2020
Noel, it’s not Serotonin Syndrome you need to worry about with that combo. But rather how you feel.
I recommend avoiding melatonin because you don’t really know how much melatonin you’re using. Studies have shown that the amount of melatonin listed on the bottle almost always is NOT what’s in the capsule. It’s either dramatically less or much more that what’s listed. Quality control seems to be non existent with this supplement.
My personal experience is I had to stop using even 1/2 mg because my wife noticed a change in personality the next day. And it wasn’t nice. So if you decide to try it for a few nights, pay close attention to how you feel the next day.
It’s much safer to get your melatonin by using about 6 oz. of Tart Cherry Juice from concentrate (not a juice blend) which is a natural source of this nootropic.
noel
February 8, 2020
Hi David. What do you think about taking L-Tryphtophan and Tart Cherry Concentrate in capsule form on a nightly basis to facilitate sleep? Is this combination both safe and effective ? Thank you.
David Tomen
February 8, 2020
Noel, yes it’s effective and what is in Performance Lab Sleep: https://nootropicsexpert.com/performance-lab-sleep-review/. You’ll get the best results from that supplement the longer you use it. With full benefits after about 3 weeks of daily use.
noel
November 16, 2019
Hi David. If these nootropics are working well, which I believe they are, is there really any reason at all to take any race tams? Do you believe that race tams are essential to any nootropic stack, or just a complement to enhance the stack? Thank you.
David Tomen
November 16, 2019
Noel, if you’ve found a stack that works for you then do NOT change it. Not until you need to. I cannot stress how important this. Because it took so much work to get this point as any experienced neurohacker would admit.
The racetams are an option. But they are NOT necessary to make a successful nootropic stack.
noel
February 9, 2020
Hi David. Are you a fan of all the Performance Labs products ? I am curious about the mens multivitamin, energy, and sleep products specifically, but wonder what you thought about the company and their products in general too. Thank you.
David Tomen
February 10, 2020
Noel, the Performance Lab Wholefood Multi is the best multivitamin for men I’ve ever used. I use their Multi, Energy and Sleep products daily because I after researching the market and trying different things, these are by far the best and purest supplements on the market. They work and the price is right. Especially at this very moment when some of them are still on sale.
noel
December 13, 2019
Hi David. What are your thoughts on Modafinil? Have you tried it? Please tell me what you think about it. Some people really swear by this one. Thank you.
David Tomen
December 15, 2019
Noel, I have no problem with Modafinil. Except that it is a prescription drug and NOT a nootropic.
I do not review drugs or “smart drugs” on Nootropics Expert. Only natural nootropics that anyone can buy without a prescription in most places in the world.
noel
January 1, 2020
Hi David. I have been taking L-Tryptophan 500 mg every night to facilitate sleep. It does help but I still wake up quite often during the night. Can you recommend anything else to add as part of a “sleep stack” ? Thank you
David Tomen
January 2, 2020
Noel, you’re only getting one part of the sleep stack I’ve been using and writing about for the last few years. You can use these supplements individually like you have been doing or get them in two capsules here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/performance-lab-sleep-review/
Robert L
September 15, 2019
Ok so in therapy they speak of Antidepressants to Help boost the brain to not be so reactive in bad moments.
I keep having bad cycles of depression and I do know why. But I’m so far down it’s hard to maintain positive when the going gets tough. (Applying therapy techniques, or following bible principles).
So I’ve been doing the Tyrosine, Taurine, C3+, B complex, NAC, CBD, CoCoa, Mg Theronate, 1/2 a Multi. I do it all with my fatty blueberry shake with collegian protein powered.
Anyway – no change. It’s been a month.
My attitude and fears work on me hard and it hurts and I lose hope. I get annoyed.
Anything help boost mood like a mood stabilizer?
David Tomen
September 16, 2019
Robert, please go back and start this post again from the top. Because it will help you understand that the only way to get to the bottom or the cause of your depression is through the process of elimination.
You’ve already found out that dopamine (i.e. Tyrosine) is not likely your problem. So now I suggest you try L-Tryptophan for serotonin and see if that helps. If it doesn’t then try Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline for acetylcholine and see if that helps. And so on through the rest.
If after investigating each of the neurotransmitters one by one doesn’t help then look at neurogenesis or inflammation next. I realize this may sound like a long, drawn out process while you’re still in agony. But it’s the only real way to get to the root of the problem.
But please note that things like Taurine, B-complex, NAC, Magneiusm L-Threonate, and a Multivitamin are all needed in any event. Whatever else you need to do you’ll still need these basics.
Rhonda Lynn
September 2, 2019
Hi David. I am new to nootropics and feel a bit overwhelmed with all the information and options for each condition. I found nootropics when looking for a way to manage my depression, anxiety and panic attacks. I have tired microdoscing psilocybin with good success but they can be hard to find and I need a consistent approach.
Reading the list of 25 nootropics for depression I just don’t know where to start. I know that I will have to experiment to find what works best for me, but can you suggest a good starting place? Before learning the term nootropics I tried Gaba and Dopa Mucuna with some relief, but the Dopa Mucuna leaves me over amped sometimes, and the Gaba feels like it helps but could be better. I am 53, just entered menopause, am obese & have insulin resistance, with a just recognized constant foundation of depression that can dip much lower when I’m triggered.
I thank you for any direction you can offer.
David Tomen
September 2, 2019
Rhonda, for insulin resistance try Berberine: https://nootropicsexpert.com/berberine/.
And it sounds like you’ve already had some success in finding the cause of at least some of your symptoms. Mucuna Pruriens provides L-DOPA which is a direct precursor to the synthesis of dopamine. So if it provided some benefit but was too strong for you, at least you know you could be dopamine deficient. So instead of Mucuna you should consider a step back in the dopamine pathway and try L-Tyrosine.
And if GABA provided some relief you could try increasing your dose. You didn’t mention your dosage of either of these supplements. But if it was 500 mg GABA before bed then try 750 mg the next time. And see how you feel the next day.
Rhonda Lynn
September 2, 2019
Thank you for your quick response David!
I’m started with 750mg GABA before bed and when that wasn’t quite doing it I also added another 750mg cap mid morning. I do feel better with the second dose but it’s hmmm, kinda like an itch that you can’t quite reach. I feel my mood is elevated but still just under the surface of feeling good. I read somewhere that GABA supplements don’t cross the blood brain barrier so I wonder if I’m just spinning my wheels on this one.
The Mucuna I was taking is 800mg. I’ll give the L-Tyrosine a try and see if I feel less amped.
Thank you for the recommendation of Berberine – I’ll check into that.
Do you think it would make sense to add anything like Aniracetam or Bacopa?
Again, thank you so much for your guidance!!
David Tomen
September 4, 2019
Rhonda, it’s true that the GABA molecule is too big to cross the blood-brain barrier. However, we think there may be a dedicated transporter for GABA to help it across. Or it may be that the magic happens in your gut which then communicates with your brain via your vagus nerve. Either way it seems that GABA supplements work for many people.
The other calming neurotransmitter is serotonin. So you could also try 500 mg L-Tryptophan before bed.
Aniracetam is a great antidepressant but needs to be dosed correctly including using it with a good choline supplement.
Rhonda Lynn
September 4, 2019
Thank you David. I’ll give your recommendations a try and see how they do before considering adding more. And thanks for the GABA explanation. Much appreciated!
Son
August 26, 2019
David,
Thanks for the wonderful resources. Given that this product “Puritan’s Pride Soy Protein Isolate Powder” contains most of the amino acids of these list and others. Is it okay to use Puritan’s Pride Soy Protein Isolate Powder as a source of these nootropics?
Thanks,
Son
David Tomen
August 26, 2019
It sounds like you missed the entire message of this post. Depression can be caused by a number of things including problems with neurogenesis, neurotransmitter deficiencies, stress and more.
If you think the amino acids in Puritan’s Pride product are the correct dosages and address exactly the cause of your depression then it may work.
Son
August 27, 2019
Thanks for your response David.
The product contains L-Tyrosine, L-Cysteine, L-Phenylalanine, L-Tryptophan. These are in this post. However it also contains L-Glutamic Acid, L-Arginine etc. My question is will the presence of these non essential amino acid interfere with or have adverse effect on depression?
Thank you,
Son
David Tomen
August 27, 2019
Son, these amino acids should have a positive effect on decreasing depression. But only if the dosages are high enough.
Son
August 28, 2019
Given the short amount of time I have known your youtube channel and then your website. The resources you have gathered has been so help to me and other people I know.
Thank you so much Dave.
Son.
Misha
August 24, 2019
Hi Dave,
I was hoping to see some information on dl phenylalanine. I realize you can’t list everything and maybe it’s not considered a nootropic. From all the research I have done I decided to take it. I call it me head meds.
I take dL, glutamine and a high potency liquid b complex. I must admit when I sometimes go off of everything I can tell a big difference. I take the B-Complex because, well JSU because everyone should. The glutamine because if all the reports about the brain gut connection and how our health begins in the gut and the dL for anxiety and mood. I am supposed to be taking magnesium as well but for now I am working on trying to make sure I at least take the three listed above. I sometimes get busy and forget. I have read from multiple sources that amino acids will cancel each other out and not to take at the same time. So I take dL first think in the morning because you should eat any proteins for at least and hour and if I eat then I have to wait 2 hrs before I can take. Them later I take the glutamine and b complex at the same time. I will start adding the magnesium with this as well unless since two are a powder and one is a linguist I just mix it all in 4oz of juice and am done with it.
I’d love to know your thoughts on dL and if I am correct that I shouldn’t take aminos at the same time.
Thank you in advance
Misha
David Tomen
August 25, 2019
Misha, this is my review on L-Phenylalanine: https://nootropicsexpert.com/phenylalanine/. It’s a precursor to the synthesis of L-Tyrosine which goes on to make dopamine. Some find better results boosting dopamine when using L-Tyrosine.
Dosage recommendations say to not take amino acid supplements with food. The reason is because the amino acids in your food compete for the same amino acid transporters in your gut. So may not get the full benefit of the amino acid supplement. And why it’s suggested to use them an hour before or two hours after a meal.