The global nootropics market is estimated to be worth $29.24 billion by 2028. These smart drugs are being consumed by professionals and students to help improve memory and focus. Nootropic supplements are being used for a variety of different purposes from mental health issues to motivation and reducing brain fog.
Not every nootropic supplement is equal. If you’re considering trying Nootropics to boost your focus and productivity then there are a few things you should know first.
In this article, we’ll take a look at 4 tips to help you choose the best nootropic supplement to try.
What Are Nootropics?
Nootropics, also known as “smart drugs,” is the label given to a class of substances that can enhance brain performance. They are available as over-the-counter drugs and prescription nootropic supplements.
Prescription nootropics can help treat certain medical conditions such as ADHD and dementia. They often contain powerful stimulants such as amphetamines.
An over-the-counter nootropic supplement can be any substance that can have effects on memory, thinking, and other mental functions. Some of the most common nootropic supplement ingredients include:
- Caffeine
- L-Theanine
- Ginkgo Biloba
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Panax Ginseng
Most nootropics contain a variety of brain-enhancing substances. Some of the ingredients and natural while others are synthetically made such as Aniracetam and Sulbutiamine.
4 Tips for Choosing a Nootropic Supplement
Unfortunately, as with the rest of the supplement market, when a new type of supplement takes off it brings about a barrage of bottles and pills all claiming to be the next wonder drug. Some of these are just as effective as sugar pills, others are no different from the average multivitamin.
Here are 4 things you to watch out for when you’re choosing a nootropic supplement to make sure you get what you’re paying for.
1. Brand Names
When it comes to choosing a good quality nootropic supplement, you should always look for those made by reputable brands. Avoid buying department stores or supermarket stores’ brands. More often than not, these products are weakly dose and some don’t even contain any active nootropic ingredients.
2. Therapeutic Dosages
Poor quality nootropics will often underdose their ingredients so much that they won’t have any cognitive benefit at all. It’s worth taking the time to establish the recommended therapeutic dose of each nootropic supplement to make sure it is effective.
Also, be aware of proprietary blends. As with any supplement, if you see “proprietary blend” on the ingredients label it’s a red flag. You simply don’t know how much of each ingredient is present.
3. Quality Assurance
Unfortunately, the FDA doesn’t oversee every single supplement sold on the US market. Instead, you’ll have to do your best to research the companies you’re planning on buying from. A reputable company should provide information on its supply chain from farm to shelf.
4. Certificate of Analysis
A certificate of analysis (COA) which is provided by laboratories such as Labdoor and NSF international is proof that a supplement has been tested. During these quality tests, a supplement will be tested to make sure it contains everything it says it does on the label.
Quite often, supplements will have a QR code that you can scan and then download the certificate of analysis. If not, then you can visit the manufacturer’s website and they should provide a COA online.
Finding the Best Nootropic Supplement for You
It can feel overwhelming when you’re looking to find the best nootropic supplement for you. There are so many out there, and not all of them will live up to the benefits they report to do.
By following the 4 tips in this guide you can be sure that the nootropic supplements you buy contain the right dose of effective ingredients and can help you boost your productivity and focus.
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