Now that work, study and life is slowly returning, everyone wants to put in 110% to achieve their goals. But with daily distractions at the ready such as phones and social media, we are finding it harder and harder to stay focused on the task at hand. Committing to a few hours study after a long day at work can seem daunting so it can be extremely easy for the mind to wander.
If you struggle getting into the mental head space to maximise your potential whether it be at home, at work or at the gym; there are plenty of supplements out there that can assist with this. These supplements are commonly referred to as nootropics.A nootropic is a class of substance that can improve focus, increase cognitive function and enhance memory retention. These improvements are not just for useful for study but are very commonly used in the workplace where attention to detail is required. Nootropics are becoming increasingly popular with the gaming industry where focus and reaction speed means the difference between a win and a loss.
Below is a breakdown of the best over the counter Nootropics which will help you reach peak mental performance;
L-Theanine
L-Theanine is an amino acid which is found in tea leaves. L-Theanine is commonly taken to increase relaxation (without the side effective of drowsiness) and focus. L-Theanine achieves this through enhancement of Alpha brain waves.
Panax ginseng
Not to be confused with American ginseng or Siberian ginseng, Panax ginseng is a perennial shrub that grows in China. Panax ginseng is used to increase alertness and reduce mental fatigue.
Taurine
Like L-Theanine, Taurine is also an amino acid used for it’s nootropic purposes. Taurine can improve memory retention, works as a mood enhancer and is also shown to be anxiolytic (used to reduce anxiety).
L-Tyrosine
L-Tyrosine is a staple of most nootropic blends. L-Tyrosine is a required precursor for dopamine. As your dopamine levels increase so will your ability to concentrate and stay on task.
Alpha GPC
Alpha GPC(L-Alpha Glycerylphosphorylcholine) is a highly bioavailable form of choline which is why it’s used in most nootropic blends. Other forms of choline such as Choline Citrate and Choline Bitartrate don’t have the same uptake as Alpha GPC but are still effective. Alpha GPC works by increasing the chemical acetylcholine in the brain which boosts the development of new brain cells.
Caffeine Anhydrous
While most people will relate Caffeine Anhydrous to their stimulant based pre workout studies have found Caffeine Anhydrous, in a low to mild dosage, greatly betters reaction time, improves hedonic tone and reduces anxiety.
Some nootropic supplements the team at My Supplement Store love are GAMMA LABS G Fuel, 5% NUTRITION Mentality and REDCON1 Mental Trigger.
Disclaimer: The above article is merely a guide and is in no way a recommendation or a treatment protocol for any health conditions or diseases. You should always consult with a qualified health care provider before changing your supplement, training or nutritional strategy. Supplementation should not be attempted by pregnant or breastfeeding women, anyone on prescription medication or children under the age of 15 unless advised by your qualified health care provider.
Author: Chad Streatfield
