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Three Nootropics That Actually Work (and One To Drop)
Need a morning hit, but not keen on coffee? Try one of these all-natural brain-enhancers
There's been a lot of buzz around cognitive-enhancers in recent years. But it can be hard to tell which nootropics are genuinely useful – and which are just pumped up stimulants. We tested four common contenders to discern whether they're worth popping or dropping. If you're craving a morning buzz, but are cutting back on caffeine, try adding one of these to your routine.
Researchers found that just one capsule of this amino acid, originally found in tea, can increase your brain’s alpha waves. This enhances creativity and alertness, without triggering anxiety. A good choice for everyday use, delivering a gentle pick-me-up with no side effects.
Stuffed with mind-maximising bacoside compounds, this Ayurvedic herb speeds up your reaction times and accelerates your ability to process information. It's also believed to combat stress, though admittedly there's less evidence for its efficacy compared to L-theanine.
Widely taken for its ability to help you build biceps like Arnie's, creatine also strengthens your powers of total recall. Just 5g per day can significantly improve your memory. The effect is significant, without giving you the jitters, and the scientific backing is stacking up.
Choline, a vitamin, does have its benefits. It contributes to liver function and overall brain health. But there's little evidence to suggest that it will sharpen your thinking. Multiple studies suggest that it has no significant impact on memory in healthy adults. If a mental boost is your MO, this is one to drop.
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