The brain requires essential nutrients to work properly. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats is necessary for proper brain development from childhood into adulthood. Natural brain-boosting nutrients are called nootropics, which show beneficial effects on brain function in healthy individuals, specifically on memory, mental clarity, cognition, creativity, motivation, and focus. They are also known for lowering the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

Following are the popular brain-boosting supplements

Ashwagandha

A traditional Ayurvedic medicine which helps improve stress, cognitive function, and memory. Studies have shown that Ashwagandha showed significant improvements in attention, executive function, and information-processing speed in people with mild cognitive impairment. It also reduced stress and improved sleep quality in healthy but stressed individuals. 

L-theanine

It is a naturally occurring amino acid in black and green teas and some mushrooms. Studies have shown that it improves mental performance when taken 2 hours before any mental task. It is also rich in antioxidants that are rich in mental and physical well-being.

Phosphatidylserine

It is a type of phospholipid found in the brain membranes. It helps regulate signalling pathways and the release of neurotransmitters in the brain. It also protects brain health, improves cognitive health, and lowers the risk of neurodegenerative disease. Studies have shown that phosphatidylserine supplementation improves memory and cognitive function without causing any side effects.

Alpinia Galanga

It is a traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine native to Southeast Asia. It is a stimulant which could be used as an alternative to caffeine, which often causes sleep disruptions and jitters. Alpinia galanga is a caffeine-free stimulant which has no crash effect after withdrawal. It improves mental alertness lasting for 5 hours and enhances the brain's working capacity, focus, energy, performance, and productivity without affecting the sleep cycle or pattern.

Fish oils

Fish oils are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, namely docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, which improves brain health. They maintain the brain's structure, accounting for 25% of the total fat in brain cells. They also protect against brain damage and ageing due to anti-inflammatory effects. Fish oil supplements are linked to improved memory, reaction time, mood, and thinking skills. 

Caffeine

Caffeine, commonly found in coffee, tea, and dark chocolate, is a natural stimulant that acts on the central nervous system. It makes you energetic and mentally alert. Studies have shown that it improves brain function, reaction times, and memory. However, caffeine can lead to addiction, sleep disturbances, rapid heartbeat, and a crash effect where the energy levels drop drastically after withdrawal. Excessive caffeine consumption is also linked to anxiety. 

Ginkgo Biloba

It is a herbal supplement incredibly popular for its brain-boosting potential. Studies have shown that Ginkgo Biloba supplements can lower the effects of age-related brain damage and improve thinking skills and memory in middle-aged individuals.

Vitamin B and E

B vitamins, including B9 (folic acid), B12 (cobalamin), and B6 (pyridoxine), play a major role in maintaining brain function and health. Folic acid is also essential for preventing birth defects in neural tube. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties which help combat free radical damage in the brain.

Resveratrol

It is a polyphenol which is rich in grapes and red wine. It has antioxidant properties which help improve cognition and blood flow to the brain. It maintains the health of the hippocampus, which is important for memory. However, it can slow blood clotting and should be avoided by people taking blood thinners.

Creatine

It is a natural amino acid present in muscles. Creatine supplements can enhance thinking skills and improve memory. Studies suggest that creatine improves cognition, eases depression symptoms, and helps recover from brain injury. 

Choline

Naturally found in eggs, Choline is an essential substance required for making acetylcholine, a neurochemical. It is made for cognition and memory. Studies have shown that Choline supplementation lowered the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. 

Takeaway points

While brain-boosting supplements can support brain and cognitive health, it is important to know the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, good sleep, mindfulness, and understanding the connection between the mind and body. Also, these supplements are effective only in people who are healthy and do not have any mental health conditions.

Try Ultimate Brain Fuel Chocolate Bites from the range of Benefic nutritional supplements. It is made with amazing brain-boosting supplements, including Ashwagandha, Alpinia Galanga, L-theanine, and Phosphatidylserine. Choose the Ultimate Brain Fuel for your brain to overcome fatigue and increase your mental focus. Banish the brain fog, keep your memory sharp, perform better, and live a better life.

Always consult your doctor before starting supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have any health condition or are on medication.