Explore

Pills That Make My Brain Work

As someone who is passionate about supporting my brain health and cognitive performance, I’ve put together a carefully selected range of supplements, including adaptogenic herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other well-researched compounds. However, it's crucial to recognize that individual needs vary, and it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional and conduct thorough research before starting any new supplement regimen.

When using supplements, it's important to be aware of potential side effects and interactions, and to rely on reputable sources for information. Additionally, cycling off certain supplements periodically can help maintain their effectiveness and prevent the body from developing a tolerance.

The following sections provide an overview of the supplements I have found beneficial for supporting my cognitive performance, along with their potential benefits, common uses, and important precautions. Please remember that this information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.

📌 It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, as they can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs and potential drug interactions.

Vitamin D3

Benefits:

Supports immune system health

Vitamin D is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play crucial roles in mood and cognitive function

May help reduce risk of certain cancers, heart disease, depression & Alzheimer's disease

Common reasons for taking:

Insufficient sun exposure

Vegetarian or vegan diet

Older age

Sources:

⁠

Vitamin D and Health⁠

(Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health)

⁠

Vitamin D⁠

(National Institutes of Health)

Side effects and precautions:

Excessive intake may lead to hypercalcemia

May interact with certain medications, such as steroids and weight-loss drugs

Magnesium Glycinate

Benefits:

Supports muscle and nerve function

May help reduce anxiety, stress, and insomnia

Promotes heart health

Common reasons for taking:

Magnesium deficiency

Difficulty sleeping

Muscle cramps or twitches

Sources:

⁠

Magnesium⁠

(National Institutes of Health)

⁠

The Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Subjective Anxiety and Stress—A Systematic Review⁠

(Nutrients, 2017)

Side effects and precautions:

May cause digestive issues, such as diarrhea, in high doses

May interact with antibiotics, diuretics, and proton pump inhibitors

Lion's Mane Mushroom

Benefits:

May improve cognitive function and memory

Supports nervous system health

May help alleviate mild symptoms of anxiety and depression

Common reasons for taking:

Age-related cognitive decline

Mild anxiety or depression

Sources:

⁠

Lion's Mane: A Mushroom That Improves Your Memory and Mood?⁠

(Healthline)

⁠

Neurological Activity of Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)⁠

(Journal of Restorative Medicine, 2017)

Side effects and precautions:

Generally well-tolerated, but may cause digestive discomfort in some people

May interact with anticoagulant and anti-platelet drugs

L-Theanine

Benefits:

Promotes relaxation without drowsiness

May improve focus and attention

May help reduce stress and anxiety

Common reasons for taking:

Stress and anxiety

Difficulty focusing or concentrating

Sources:

⁠

L-Theanine⁠

(Psychology Today)

⁠

The effects of L-theanine on attention and reaction time response⁠

(Journal of Functional Foods, 2011)

Side effects and precautions:

Generally well-tolerated, but may cause headaches or digestive issues in some people

May interact with medications for high blood pressure

Ashwagandha

Benefits:

May help reduce stress and anxiety

May improve brain function, including memory

May lower blood sugar and fat levels

Common reasons for taking:

Chronic stress

Anxiety

High blood sugar or cholesterol

Sources:

⁠

Ashwagandha⁠

(WebMD)

⁠

An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study⁠

(Medicine, 2019)

Side effects and precautions:

May cause digestive issues, headaches, or drowsiness in some people

May interact with medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, and thyroid disorders

Rhodiola Root

Benefits:

May help reduce fatigue and improve energy levels

May alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety

May improve brain function and reduce mental fatigue

Common reasons for taking:

Fatigue or low energy

Mild to moderate depression

Stress and anxiety

Sources:

⁠

The Effects of Rhodiola rosea L. Extract on Anxiety, Stress, Cognition and Other Mood Symptoms⁠

(Phytotherapy Research, 2015)

⁠

The Effects of Rhodiola rosea L. Extract on Anxiety, Stress, Cognition and Other Mood Symptoms⁠

(Phytotherapy Research, 2015)

⁠

Rhodiola rosea L. Improves Learning and Memory Function: Preclinical Evidence and Possible Mechanisms⁠

(Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2018)

Side effects and precautions:

May cause dizziness, dry mouth, or insomnia in some people

May interact with medications for diabetes and depression

Gamer Supps Drink Powder

(90mg caffeine per serving, caffeine free also available)

Ingredients and Benefits:

Vitamin C: Aids immune system, lowers blood pressure, protects against chronic disease

Vitamin D3: Regulates absorption of calcium and phosphorus, facilitates normal immune system function

Vitamin B6: Necessary for brain function and creation of red blood cells, may improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression, may promote brain health and reduce Alzheimer's risk, may prevent clogged arteries and reduce heart disease risk

Vitamin B12: Crucial in metabolism of every cell, may improve mood and symptoms of depression, may benefit brain by preventing loss of neurons

Vitamin B7 (Biotin): Supports growth and strength of hair, skin, and nails

Caffeine: Naturally derived from non-GMO coffee beans, provides energy and alertness

L-Theanine: Amino acid found in tea and green tea leaves, works with caffeine to prevent crash or jitters, reduces anxiety

Lutein: Important for protection and health of eyes, especially when staring at digital screens

Astaxanthin: Carotenoid with powerful antioxidant properties, protects cells from free radicals and oxidative stress

Potassium: Required for keeping heart, brain, kidney, muscle tissue, and other important organ systems in good condition, optimizes hydration

CoQ10: Beneficial for blood pressure and general heart health

Acai Berry Extract: Loaded with antioxidants, may improve cholesterol levels, boost brain function, and have anti-cancer effect

Goji Berry Extract: Eye and skin antioxidant, may regulate blood pressure, lower blood sugar, improve sugar tolerance, alleviate insulin resistance, and increase life expectancy

Ginseng Root Extract: Cognitive enhancement, anti-inflammatory benefits, lowers blood sugar, and flu prevention

Mangosteen Fruit Extract: Fights free radicals and cancer-causing agents, has anti-inflammatory agents, combats allergens, helps digestion and prevents acne

Erythritol (Sweetener): Non-GMO sugar alcohol with no impact on blood sugar, no insulin response, and 0 on the GI index, keto and diabetic friendly

5-HTP

Benefits:

May help improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression

May promote better sleep

May help reduce anxiety and stress

Common reasons for taking:

Mood disorders, such as depression

Insomnia or sleep disturbances

Anxiety and stress

Sources:

⁠

5-HTP efficacy and contraindications⁠

(Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 2012)

⁠

The Effects of 5-Hydroxytryptophan on Attention and Central Serotonin Neurochemistry in the Rhesus Monkey⁠

(Neuropsychopharmacology, 2010)

Side effects and precautions:

May cause digestive issues, such as nausea and diarrhea

Should not be taken with antidepressants or other medications that affect serotonin levels, as it may lead to serotonin syndrome

Want to print your doc?
This is not the way.

Try clicking the ⋯ next to your doc name or using a keyboard shortcut (

CtrlP

) instead.