One of the most popular supplement categories today is focused on brain and memory health. These kinds of supplements are called nootropics, and they seek to improve memory, focus, mental energy, and problem-solving skills
We spent months researching nootropic supplements and gathering user feedback. There are specific ingredients that, when present in a formula, help differentiate high-quality nootropic supplements from generic ones. Below are the three most essential ingredients to consider before deciding on which nootropic brand is best for your needs.
- #1 CholineCholine is an essential nutrient crucial to producing acetylcholine, which supports memory, learning, concentration, and motor skills.31Studies published in the Journal of Nutrition and the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition confirm that low choline intake is tied to poorer cognitive performance. On the other hand, supplementing choline into your daily regimen can help improve memory and attention in healthy adults.32-33 Also, taking choline may help reduce the changes in the brain associated with aging and memory loss and support enhanced cognitive function in elderly adults.34
- #2 PhosphatidylserinePhosphatidylserine is a phospholipid nutrient, found in the cerebral cortex, which covers and protects brain cells and helps carry messages between them.12 The normal aging process causes brain cell membranes to become rigid, impairing brain cell communication, which results in memory recall issues.13 Studies show that supplementing with phosphatidylserine can improve memory function, especially delayed recall, in both middle-aged and older adults. It works by helping rejuvenate brain cell membranes and supporting the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for memory.14
- #3 Bacopa MonnieriBacopa monnieri is an herb used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine.15Numerous clinical studies found that Bacopa monnieri enhances memory retention, improves spatial learning, the ability to take in new information about one’s environment, and reduces stress.16-18 Scientists found that Bacopa monnieri increases the length and branching of nerve cells, also known as dendrites, in the brain, which is linked to learning and memory.19 The main active compounds in Bacopa monnieri are bacosides, which also fight oxidative stress, a cause of disease and cognitive decline, by acting as a free radical scavenger.20Editor’s Tip: Look for brain supplements that contain BacoMind®️ Bacopa monnieri. This is the only bacopa extract supported by a human safety clinical study.
- #4 Huperzine AHuperzine A, an extract of the Huperzia serrata plant, has been shown in studies to improve memory and learning from young students to seniors.21, 22 Recent research shows that it improves memory and slows cognitive decline by increasing levels of acetylcholine, the compound that functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain.23, 24 It’s also been shown to help prevent neuronal cell death.25Twenty randomized clinical trials involving 1823 participants indicated that it has a beneficial effect on memory, cognitive function, and quality of life.