Don't we all just want the ability to focus deeply, and think with the kind of mental clarity that allows us to handle whatever life throws our way?
We want to be able to think like Leonardo da Vinci, or Steve Jobs, or Bill Gates. We want to have the kind of focused mental energy that lets us be productive for hours on end, and then go out and still have the energy to enjoy our social lives. I know I do.
There is no magic cure-all, fix-all anything out there that can give us all of that in one hit. We have to work on it. So, what are our options? This post will outline the way in which Nootropics can enhance our cognitive function and provide some of the brain boosting benefits we seek.
What are Nootropics?
Nootropics are cognitive enhancers. They’re natural or synthetic substances that can be taken to improve mental performance. Nootropics are sometimes called “smart drugs” or “memory enhancers”. Some everyday examples of a Nootropic are things like caffeine, nicotine and omega-three fatty acids. I know, who would have thought.
There are both natural and synthetic Nootropics available, such as: Bacopa Monnieri, Lion’s Mane Mushroom and Rhodiola Rosea which are all natural Nootropics; and we've all heard of drugs like Adderall and Ritalin, which are synthetic Nootropics that are prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy.
How can Nootropics Benefit the Mind and Body?
Nootropics are all different and provide different benefits, such as caffeine providing us with an energy hit (hello morning coffees!) and Ginkgo Biloba which can increase blood flow to the brain 🧠 This increased blood flow can then help to improve cognitive function, memory and concentration.
Some Nootropics also have the ability to:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Improve sleep quality
- Boost energy levels and motivation
- Enhance mood
When these benefits are combined, they can result in better cognitive function and improved mental performance.
How do Nootropics work?
Nootropics work by modulating the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Some Nootropics work by inhibiting the breakdown of certain neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine or serotonin. This leads to an increase in the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. This can then have a positive effect on cognitive function, memory, mood and motivation.
Other Nootropics work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine or norepinephrine. This can then have a positive effect on focus, attention and energy levels.
Flowstate is our favourite Nootropic infused Coffee 😏
How common are Nootropics?
Nootropics are relatively new on the scene, but they’re becoming more and more popular, especially among young people. A survey in 2016 found that one in five American college students had used a Nootropic drug to help them focus or study.
Most people start their day with a coffee, which as we now know is a Nootropic, so they’re more common than you might think!
What are the different types of Nootropics?
There are many different types of Nootropics available, each with their own benefits. Here are some of the most popular:
- Caffeine: as we all know, caffeine is a stimulant that can help to improve focus and attention.
- L-Theanine: an amino acid found in green tea (and in all of our Flowstate coffees) that can help to improve focus and attention.
- Bacopa Monnieri: a herb that can help to improve memory and cognitive function.
- Lion’s Mane Mushroom: a mushroom that can help to improve cognitive function and memory.
- Rhodiola Rosea: a herb that can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Ginkgo Biloba: a herb that can help to improve blood flow to the brain.
- Omega-Three Fatty Acids: found in fish oil, these can help to improve cognitive function and memory.
Do Nootropics really work?
The short answer is: we don't know for sure. The evidence is anecdotal at best and there are very few scientific studies that have been done on the cognitive effects of Nootropics.
That being said, many people report feeling the benefits of taking Nootropics, and with a huge chunk of the population having coffee on a regular basis for an extra energy boost - we think that says something.
So there you have it! A quick dive into the basics about Nootropics and how they can benefit the mind and body. Do you take any Nootropics? Let us know by sharing the post below with your Nootropic take 👇
If you're ready to try a Nootropic and Superfood infused, completely delish coffee - try one of our Flowstate flavours.
