One of my favorite breakfast (and breakfast for dinner) foods is quiche. Quiche is one of those dishes that looks fancy, but is actually pretty easy to make. Because it can be served, cold, room-temperature or warm, this is one of those make-ahead recipes that can provide you with a choline-loaded breakfast for the week.

Choline Rich Quiche Breakfast

The beauty of quiche is that it is a perfect vehicle to showcase whatever filling you choose. I like to keep mine pretty simple, uncured pastured ham and goat cheese, but as long as you maintain the ratios, you can add to the custard any protein or veggies you like.

Here is a simple, customizable recipe for crustless quiche I hope you will reach for time and time again.

Choline Quiche Preparation

Ingredients

• 1-2 cups of fillings, like ham, cooked bacon, leeks, caramelized onions, spinach, or mushrooms.
• 3 – 6 oz of grated or crumbled cheese, like pastured sharp cheddar, Gruyere, goat or swiss
• 3 large pastured eggs
• 1 cup of pastured heavy cream
• ½ cup pastured milk
• Sea salt
• Pinch of nutmeg, thyme or any other spice to taste

Start Cooking

1. Pre-heat the oven to 350F.
2. If any of the ingredients require cooking, make sure they are cooked through, cooled and dried. Extra moisture may affect the consistency of the quiche.
3. Whisk the eggs, milk and cream together until well incorporated. Season with salt and spices. Gently add your filling to the custard.
4. Butter a 9-inch cake or pie pan.  Pour filling into pan.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the edges have browned, but the center is still jiggly.
6. Remove from oven, and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before serving.

My Favorite Filling:

• 7 oz Applegate Organic Black Forest Ham
• 4 oz Vermont Creamery Goat Cheese
• 2 oz Organic Valley Parmesan
• 1 tbs fresh thyme
• 1 pinch nutmeg

Choline Quiche Pan

As long as you keep the ratio of 3 eggs to every 1.5 cups of cream and milk, you will have a silky smooth quiche, ready to showcase the chosen fillings.

What is your favorite quiche filling? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Try This Breakfast to Get More Choline In Your Diet Today appeared first on Brain Wiz.

The list of ingredients in their newer Focus+ stack, is quite familiar, featuring a significant number of well-researched nootropics, paired with an unknown (but observationally high) dose of stimulants and adaptogens. Read on to find out what our testers thought about it, and whether or not Focus+ is on par with the best nootropics.

Excelerol Focus Plus Label and Indgredients

The Ingredients

Vitamin B12 – 1,250

An essential vitamin B nutrient, B12 plays an important role in numerous bodily functions, including neurological function and development.

Niacin – 5 mg

This is a common B vitamin linked to both increased cognition and longevity, and niacin is responsible for the famous (and harmless) “flush” some users get when taking it.

Huperzine 1% Standardized – 12.5 mcg

Huperzine A is a compound derived from Chinese club moss that has been used to improve cognitive performance in patients with Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.

Vinpocetine – 600 mcg

Vinpocetine is a chemical derived from the periwinkle plant, and it’s known to increase cerebral blood flow. Doctors in Hungary have been prescribing this compound to treat cerebrovascular disorders for decades.

Proprietary Formulation – 650 mg

Guarana Extract

Guarana is a climbing plant native to the Amazon with seeds that contain almost four times the amount of caffeine as coffee. Even in low doses, it often provides more stimulation than caffeine alone  due to its concentration of phytonutrients.

Kola Nut Extract

The fruit of the kola tree, the kola nut has been used as a flavoring ingredient in many consumer products. It contains both caffeine and theobromine, an alkaloid also found in the cacao plant.

DMAE

DMAE Bitrate, or Deanol, is a chemical used to treat ADHD, improve memory, and boost cognitive function. Deanol is essential to the production and of choline, one of the building blocks of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. It’s a chemical precursor to choline and boosts alertness.

Acetyl L-Carnitine

This compound pairs very well with choline; when combined, the two form the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Having both in the same supplement is a good hedge in case the body is deficient in either compound.

Bacopa Monnieri Extract

Bacopa Monnieri is an herb used as an antidepressant and a cognitive booster. While performing stressful cognitive tests, subjects taking Bacopa Monnieri experienced the herb’s nootropic effects and reduced both stress and cortisol levels.

Peppermint Oil

Often used as a flavoring agent, peppermint oil has also been used in the treatment of a variety of digestive problems. The smell of peppermint has been shown to enhance memory.

Tulsi (Holy Basil) Extract

A noted adaptogen, ursolic acid (the active ingredient in this extract) helps reduce the negative effects of stress. Note: In high dosages, research indicates ursolic acid may actually be an anti-fertility agent and could reduce reproductive capability in the short term. We’ve had good experience with adaptogens before, but wonder if it would have been a good idea to leave this ingredient out, given its potential side effects.

Ginkgo Biloba Extract

Ginko has been used in Chinese medicine  for thousands of years to promote memory. More recently, clinical studies and research reviews have pointed to its efficacy in fighting dementia and neural decline.

Rhodiola Extract

While there’s some evidence that Rhodiola Rosea can combat the effects of physical stress, it’s best known and well-researched to fight fatigue from mental challenges and tasks. Basically, evidence suggests this herb helps us better manage stress, and it also combats fatigue we might feel from mentally (and potentially physically) grueling tasks. Some early research also indicates Rhodiola could improve overall longevity and brain health  in mammals.

Phosphatidylserine

This is a widely-used nootropic compound that, until the 1990s, was very difficult to synthesize. Clinical testing and trials have linked it to improved cognition, and the compound has also been shown to reduce levels of cortisol (a well-known stress hormone).

L-Tyrosine

L-Tyrosine is linked to improving cognitive performance under conditions of stress, and the compound has been shown to actually reduce symptoms of stress itself, likely because it is involved in the production of dopamine.

Green Tea Extract, White Tea Extract, Black Tea Extract

All three of these teas contain varying quantities of polyphenols, caffeine, and l-theanine. An amino acid that’s becoming an increasingly common ingredient in nootropics, l-theanine promotes relaxation without being a sedative. Research suggests it also helps the brain deal with stress. Often paired with caffeine, l-theanine effects appear complementary to the world’s most popular stimulant. It may also increase brain activity and memory.

Alpha Glycerylphosphorylcholine (Alpha-GPC)

Choline is a vital compound in neurotransmission, and research suggests many Americans don’t get enough from their regular diets. (In fact, choline-based nootropics are increasingly common, and some of our testers have experienced enhanced memory and focus simply from supplementing choline.) This is the same form of choline as in popular stack (and BrainWiz tester favorite) Alpha Brain.

Citicoline

Choline is a vital compound in neurotransmission, and research suggests many Americans don’t get enough from their regular diets. (Choline-based nootropics are increasingly common, and some of our testers have experienced enhanced memory and focus simply from supplementing choline.) It’s a common ingredient in many nootropic stacks.

Other Ingredients: Glycerin, Hypromellose (Vegetarian), Titanium Dioxide, FD&C Blue #1, FD&C Yellow.

Usage Guidelines

Take 1 capsule daily with plenty of water.

What Our Testers Say

“I was excited to try this, since I had such a great experience with with the guarana in Lumonol.  Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case with Focus+.  I took 1 capsule, with breakfast, and two full glasses of water, but that was still not enough to deter the jitters. I felt a ton of nervous energy, and actually had a harder time concentrating than usual. This feeling lasted for about 4 hours, when I crashed hard.”

“I wasn’t too excited to try this product, especially because they did not have specifics on how much Holy Basil, or at what concentration, the ”˜Proprietary Formulation contained.’ I also didn’t know whether or not that formulation contained enough of an ingredient, say, Rhodiola, to meet the minimal effective dose. I tested it, though I was also hesitant because Ursolic Acid has some potential side effects. I took it in the morning, with with a shake, and felt a definite rush of energy. This was as effective as my pre-workout for energy, but I didn’t get much more out of it.”

“I felt a tad on edge on this supplement, whether I took it with or without coffee. There were no real cognitive benefits while taking this either.”

“As I have mentioned before, I do my best to avoid artificial coloring. I understand that this is part of their branding, each individual pill is blue and green with each capsule individually labeled, but I believe that a product can be just as recognizable for its quality as it is for its branding.  I do like this product as an energy supplement, but don’t think I would consider adding it to my permanent rotation even if Excelerol removed their overkill, on-pill branding. I prefer to get my jolt from coffee.”

BrainWiz Tips

• This stack contains several stimulant ingredients, loaded with caffeine. We suggest you take this supplement with food, and away from other caffeine-containing beverages, like coffee or tea.
• Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, as this supplement can dehydrate you.
• Adaptogens like Rhodiola Rosea and Panax Ginseng may actually boost the effects of common stimulants like caffeine.
• As with any supplement or nutritional regimen, you should talk to your doctor or medical professional before use.
• The bottle suggests taking this supplement up to 3 times a day, but beware of taking it too late into the afternoon, especially if you have trouble falling asleep.

Supplement Summary

Focus+ may be a good alternative for non-coffee drinkers looking for a buzz, but for our testers, the benefits stopped there. Despite having an impressive list of ingredients, the fact that neither the quantities nor concentration of many ingredients listed makes us doubt there’s enough of them in the stack to really make a difference.

The post Energy That Comes Up Short? Reviewing Focus+ by Excelerol appeared first on Brain Wiz.

Suffice it to say, we were surprised. What surprised us most about CogniYouth is what it opted to leave out, namely stimulatory ingredients such as caffeine and guarana. What it does have is a list of ten of the most trusted natural nootropic ingredients in dosages around where we like to see each fall.

Another thing that stood out? The doctor-approved certificate right on their site, along with the name and opinion of an actual M.D. (click on the button in the bottom right). CogniYouth calls itself the “ultimate brain vitamin,” and with seemingly quality ingredients prioritized over the quick buzz of stimulants and “proprietary blends,” we were excited to see if it worked. Read below to see our take.

CogniYouth Label

The Ingredients

Vitamin B6, 5 mg and Vitamin B12, 20 mcg

Two important B vitamin complexes linked to reduced fatigue and mental performance. Some of the most common nootropic ingredients we see that work synergistically in brain boosting blends.

Bacopa monnieri extract, 300 mg

Bacopa Monnieri is an herb used as an antidepressant and a cognitive booster. While performing stressful cognitive tests, subjects taking Bacopa Monnieri experienced the herb’s nootropic effects and reduced both stress and cortisol levels.

Choline Bitartrate, 200 mg

Choline-Bitartrate is a vitamin-like chemical thought to help enhance levels of acetylcholine. Choline is an essential nutrient vital for brain function.

Rhodiola rosea (standardized to 3% Rosavins), 200 mg

While there’s some evidence that Rhodiola Rosea can combat the effects of physical stress, it’s best known and well-researched to fight fatigue from mental challenges and tasks. Basically, evidence suggests this herb helps us better manage stress, and it also combats fatigue we might feel from mentally (and potentially physically) grueling tasks. Some early research also indicates Rhodiola could improve overall longevity and brain help in mammals.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine HCL, 200 mg

This compound pairs very well with choline; when combined, the two form the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Having both in the same supplement is a good hedge in case the body is deficient in either compound.

Ginkgo Biloba, 120 mg

Ginkgo has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years to promote memory. More recently, clinical studies and research reviews have pointed to its efficacy in fighting dementia and neural decline.

Soybean extract (phosphatidylserine), 100 mg

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid required to maintain healthy nerve cell membranes. It supports cognitive function and the ability to learn and recall new information.

DMAE Bitartrate, 50 mg

Also known as Deanol, DMAE is a chemical used to improve memory and boost brain function.  It’s especially important in the production of choline (see Choline-Bitartrate, below), one of the building blocks of acetylcholine, vital for nervous system function.

Huperzine A, 50 mcg

Huperzine A is a compound usually derived from Chinese club moss that has been used to improve cognitive performance in patients with declining mental health.

Other ingredients: Gelatin, rice flour, silica, magnesium stearate, and titanium dioxide.

Usage Guidelines

We recommend taking 2 capsules in the morning with food, daily. CogniYouth was carefully designed as a daily “Brain Vitamin” with the intention of aiding in overall brain health, memory, concentration, energy and well-being while battling the effects of age-related cognitive decline.

CogniYouth will be effective and safe to take continuously provided you stick to recommended dosages. If you are on prescribed medication, consult with your doctor or prescribing health care practitioner about taking CogniYouth while on medication.

What Our Testers Say

“I’m a fan of Rhodiola rosea as an adaptogen [fights the physical effects of stress], and I was glad to see it paired with ingredients that compliment its properties. CogniYouth doesn’t have caffeine or stimulants, though I did experience a bit of an energy boost from the B vitamins, and the adaptogens on the ingredient list were helpful in fighting off mid-day fatigue (I fall victim to the 2pm lull pretty easily). This isn’t a turbo-charged nootropic stack, and it won’t turn you into the guy from Limitless, but for something touted as a ”˜brain vitamin,’ I could definitely see myself taking it most mornings.”

“CogniYouth wasn’t super fast acting, and the manufacturer suggests its impact builds over time. I didn’t feel a crazy boost, but it was at least on par with what I normally feel taking Rhodiola or bacopa on their own or in combo. If I’m approaching a tight deadline and need to supercharge my mind, it wouldn’t be what I reached for. But that’s not really the point, and it may be a solid entry point for people looking to try out a nootropic.”

“I really appreciated that this didn’t have caffeine in it, as I’ve been trying to carefully watch my intake of stimulants, I think a lot of people ignore how powerful even caffeine can be. So I was pleased to see some of my favorite ingredients in a caffeine-free stack, which is something we’ve been hoping for from some other companies for awhile.”

“The focus I felt from CogniYouth was mild. But I don’t think it’s right to treat this like some of the other nootropic stacks we’ve tested, it’s meant more for brain health and effects that build over time, not the fast-metabolizing energy I like from some other stacks.”

BrainWiz Tips

• Take with food in the morning to optimize supplement digestion and minimize the risk of an upset stomach.
• CogniYouth is caffeine free, though several of our testers enjoyed taking it with coffee in the morning.

Supplement Summary

CogniYouth didn’t blow us away with a rapid burst of energy or a proprietary ingredient stack. But its effects were consistent, and it may just be the stimulant-free stack a few of our testers have been looking for.

If you’re new to nootropics or want to reduce your use of caffeine, this is one of our current top choices with ingredients we come back to time and time again.

The post The Ideal Stimulant-Free Stack? Reviewing CogniYouth appeared first on Brain Wiz.

But the proof lies within, and we gave Neuro Elite to our team of testers to see if the supplement could hold its own against competitors with flashier ingredient labels. Read below to find out! (Note: only 3 of the 4 BrainWiz testers were available during the span we tried Neuro Elite due to travel.)

Neuro Elite Label & Ingredients

The Ingredients

• Niacin (Vitamin B3) – 20 mg
  • This is a common B vitamin linked to both increased cognition and longevity, and niacin is responsible for the famous (and harmless) “flush” some users get when taking it.
• Vitamin B6 – 10 mg
  • Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble essential vitamin, involved in the production of neurotransmitters. Studies show that when taken in conjunction with Magnesium, B6 improved school attention in children diagnosed with ADHD.
• Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) – 400 mcg
  • Another B vitamin linked to brain health and function.
• Vitamin B12 – 20 mcg
  • An essential vitamin B nutrient, B12 plays an important role in numerous bodily functions, including neurological function and development.
• Proprietary Blend – 1340.1 mg
  • Like many manufacturers in the space, Neuro Elite isn’t giving out the breakdown on its proprietary blend.
• Cognizin
  • This is a branded form of choline. Choline is one of the main compounds involved in neurotransmitter function, learning, and other cognitive processes. It’s a fairly common ingredient in nootropic supplements and stacks. Many Americans are choline deficient, and there are entire nootropic supplements based around the compound and its function in the brain.
• L-Theanine
  • L-Theanine is an amino acid known to support a calm mood without inducing sleepiness. When used in conjunction with caffeine, it has been observed to reduce error rates while performing tasks.
• L-Tyrosine
  • L-Tyrosine is well-linked to improving cognitive performance under conditions of stress, and the compound has been shown to actually reduce symptoms of stress itself, likely because it is involved in the production of dopamine.
• Glucuronolactone
  • We normally see glucuronolactone in energy drinks, but there isn’t a ton of evidence to support the “boost” it supposedly gives users.
• Caffeine Anhydrous
  • Caffeine is a stimulant acting on the central nervous system. One of the better-researched mental and physical performance enhancers, caffeine is proven to have acute effects on cognitive function and mood when used in conjunction with L-Theanine.
• Bacopa Monnieri Extract (50% Bacosides)
  • Bacopa Monnieri is an herb used in Ayurveda as an antidepressant and a cognitive booster. While performing stressful cognitive tests, those taking bacopa monnieri experienced the herb’s nootropic effects, including reduced stress and cortisol levels. This is actually among highest concentration of bacosides in the extract we’ve seen in a nootropic product (slightly more than in Neurofuse, which our testers actually preferred over Neuro Elite).
• DHA
  • This is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that is a primary component of the brain and nervous system. We’re seeing an increasing number of nootropics and brain supplement incorporate omega-3 fatty acids for their important roles in brain health and chemistry. While Neuro Elite doesn’t have a few ingredients we’re used to seeing in nootropic stacks, we do appreciate the inclusion of DHA.
• Schizandrol-A
  • This is an adaptogen, a type of compound that helps reduce the effects of stress. Derived from the schizandra berry, this compound has been shown to have a significant effect on neurotransmitters in animal studies. We’ve found adaptogens to have powerful nootropics when taken on their own, and this is the first supplement we’ve tried with this particular one.
• L-Glutamine
  • This is one of the body’s most abundant amino acids, and we normally see glutamine supplementation for bodybuilders and athletes. It’s been linked to increased muscular endurance, especially in vegetarians or people with low-protein diets.
• Alpha Lipoic Acid
  • Alpha Lipoic Acid is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory chemical that has been used to treat memory loss and chronic fatigue syndrome.
• Phosphatidyl Serine/Phosphatidylserine
  • Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid required to maintain healthy nerve cell membranes. It supports cognitive function and the ability to learn and recall new information.
• Vinpocetine
  • Vinpocetine is a chemical derived from the periwinkle plant, and known to increase cerebral blood flow. Doctors in Hungary have been prescribing this compound to treat cerebrovascular disorders for decades.
• Huperzine A
  • Huperzine A is a compound derived from Chinese club moss that has been used to improve cognitive in patients with Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.
• Other Ingredients: Gelatin, Magnesium Stearate

Usage Guidelines

To improve mental performance, begin by taking 1 capsule in the morning or early afternoon, preferably with a light meal. If you desire increased intensity, increase serving size to 2 capsules. Some mental improvements may require up to 2 weeks of continual use to take effect. Do not exceed 3 capsules in a 24 hour period. Do not use if pregnant, nursing, or under the age of 18.

What Our Testers Say

“I really, really wanted this supplement to contain Piracetam or a similar compound. I think that would have given it a more powerful boost. As-is, I did feel a mental kick and increased clarity from Neuro Elite (it felt even more pronounced because I hadn’t taken any brain-boosting supplements in over a week prior to testing this). There wasn’t any crash, and it gives a good energy boost; I just wanted more of what I was feeling.”

“Neuro Elite helped erase my morning brain fog (thanks, caffeine! okay, and probably some other ingredients, too) and it DEFINITELY helped me stay focus during some stressful Monday work projects. Its effects felt a bit like some straight adaptogens I’ve tried, mixed with some increased physical energy. I’d take this before a stressful event to help stay both calm and focused.”

“Not the most powerful nootropic I’ve tried by a long shot, but maybe one that’s good for beginners or people looking for something to help take the edge of work stress. I was taking two capsules and it felt good, but that might be too much for some folks who also drink a lot of coffee.”

BrainWiz Tips

• Our testers all recommend Neuro Elite for before stressful events. This could be a result of the manufacturer’s inclusion of the adaptogen Schizandrol-A and other stress-combating ingredients in the supplement.
• Take it easy on the coffee when starting on Neuro Elite, as the combination of B vitamins caffeine in Neuro Elite already lends itself to increased mental AND physical energy.
• As with any supplement or nutritional regimen, you should talk to your doctor or medical professional before use.
• Neuro Elite capsules have a pleasant, calming smell that can add a bit of aroma to a balanced breakfast (we enjoyed opening the bottle and smelling the fragrant capsules, which smelled like herbal ingredients.

Supplement Summary 

Neuro Elite isn’t close to the most powerful nootropic we’ve tested, but our testers found its effects consistent and dependable. It also contains caffeine and a blend of energy boosters, making it ideal for morning consumption (but not great for the evening). Neuro Elite was especially good and effective for use when facing stressful situations, likely due to its included adaptogens.

However, as far as nootropic blends with stimulants, our testers have generally preferred Neurofuse to Neuro Elite. And if you’re looking for specific dosage information, Neuro Elite’s proprietary blend may not be right for you, as the manufacturer doesn’t release exactly how much of each ingredient is present. For a transparent, stimulant-free stack with clear labeling, we’d suggest looking into RISE by Nootrobox.

The post A Tool To Fight High-Stress Work? Reviewing Neuro Elite appeared first on Brain Wiz.

In the world of nootropics, truBrain has been making a splash for several reasons. It’s got incredibly slick packaging and branding, an innovative delivery system (single-use “shots” that are easy to take on the go), and a development team headed by UCLA trained neuroscientists (Dr. Andrew Hill is one of the company’s founders, and he actually has a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience from UCLA).

Click For Best truBrain Price

The truBrain team is up front about the faces behind their products, and their site also provides a lot of content surrounding their ingredients. They also stand out for listing the actual dosages of each ingredient in their otherwise proprietary blend, which some companies in the space are more careful to protect.

While truBrain also produces a line of nootropics in capsule form, we’re starting off by reviewing their most talked-about products: The line of liquid brain shots that come in Original, Non-Caffeinated, and Boost.

truBrain Ingredients

The Ingredients

All three versions of truBrain’s shot include the following:

• Vitamin C
  • Maybe the world’s most well-known nutrient, Vitamin C plays numerous roles in bodily functions, including many in the brain. In the world of on-the-go nutrition, many Americans still fall short of their daily recommendation.
• Oxiracetam – 800 mg
  • A member of the Racetam group of compounds, oxiracetam is tied to the prevention of cognitive decline and boosting memory formation. However, it lacks the same level of human trials and clinical evidence as other compounds that work via these mechanisms. Our testers found it to be a slower boost than Noopept, a key ingredient in the nootropic stack Lumonol. TruBrain claims oxiracetam is a more powerful form of Racetam, and while initial evidence suggests that’s the case, we’d like to see more clinical trials before confirming its potency. This class of compounds interacts with choline receptors, and we’re glad to see truBrain include choline (below) in the supplement as well; taking Racetam compounds without enough choline can in some cases result in a dull headache, though none of our testers experienced this at any point with truBrain (in our experience there seems to be plenty of choline in the supplement to offset this risk).
• Acetyl-L-Carnitine – 500 mg
  • This compound pairs very well with choline; when combined, the two form the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Having both in the same supplement is a good hedge in case the body is deficient in either compound. We’re pleased truBrain includes both compounds in order to promote acetylcholine levels.
• N-Acetyl Tyrosine – 350 mg
  • L-Tyrosine is well-linked to improving cognitive performance under conditions of stress, and the compound has been shown to actually reduce symptoms of stress itself, likely because it is involved in the production of dopamine.
• CDP-Choline Citocoline – 250 mg
  • Choline is a vital compound in neurotransmission, and research suggests many Americans don’t get enough from their regular diets (in fact, choline-based nootropics are increasingly common, and some of our testers have experienced enhanced memory and focus simply from supplementing choline). It’s a common ingredient in many nootropic stacks.
• Magnesium – 200 mg
  • This element is an important part of any balanced diet, and it’s also a nutrient many Westerners (especially active males) are deficient in. Magnesium plays numerous roles in brain chemistry and is often sold in some forms as a sleep aid, as it helps promote relaxation and feelings of calm.
• L-Theanine 160 mg
  • L-Theanine is an amino acid known to support a calm mood without inducing sleepiness. When used in conjunction with caffeine, it has been observed to reduce error rates while performing tasks.
• Caffeine – 80 mg (original), 100 mg (boost)
  • Caffeine is a stimulant acting on the central nervous system. One of the better-researched mental and physical performance enhancers, caffeine is proven to have acute effects on cognitive function and mood when used in conjunction with L-Theanine, also an ingredient in truBrain shots.

Boost: similar to above but with the addition of:

• Centrophenoxine – 250 mg
  • This is a compound that contains DMAE within it and may be better absorbed than DMAE on its own. It is sometimes seen under the brand name Lucidril and marketed toward the elderly.
• Uridine – 500 mg
  • A combination of fish oil, uridine, and choline supplementation improved cognition and enhanced neurotransmitter release in animal trials, suggesting the three ingredients are synergistic. This combo is currently being used in studies regarding Alzheimer’s treatment.

Other Ingredients: Purified water, organic blue agave, xylitol, organic cane sugar, natural flavor, mangosteen concentrate/nopal concentrate, natural flavor, monk fruit, nisin and polylysine

Usage Guidelines

Enjoy one or two drinks per day as desired, preferably with food. Optimal results will come from regular, consistent use. For those new to truBrain, please be patient and keep in mind that it may be helpful to have more frequently in the beginning. Try mixing your drinks with smoothies, juices, or just shoot it straight.

What Our Testers Say

“truBrain reminded me of Lumonol, but it works slower for me. Instead of feeling a boost almost immediately, clarity came on gradually as the day went by (would definitely recommend taking this one in the morning, especially the versions with caffeine). I started noticing significant improvements in clarity and reduced brain fog on day four. I tried all three versions, Original, Boost, and Caffeine-Free, and didn’t notice much of a difference between the three. They had similar tastes, and all went down easily.”

“I’m pretty sensitive to caffeine, so I felt a definite surge after taking this (it’s really not more caffeine than a small cup of coffee, but even that gets me going). As long as I took this in the morning, I also noticed I slept well at night. I think I’ll end up taking this regularly, but it will be the caffeine-free version, which is more in line with my lifestyle and schedule. I enjoyed the taste of these shots.”

“I’m excited to find a brain supplement I can add to smoothies! It’s a sweet flavor overall and pairs well with protein shakes and green smoothies I like to make for a quick breakfast (and gives them caffeine; coffee in greens smoothies is not good, trust me). This isn’t the most powerful surge I’ve felt from a supplement, but it became gradually more noticeable over the course of a week. No brain fog, no jitters, didn’t feel superhuman, but did feel like a good version of me.”

Updated TruBrain Experience

When my package of truBrain arrived in the mail, I was a little taken aback by the packaging. I had never seen nootropics packaged in such a way. If you’re not familiar with truBrain packaging, they have created tiny bottles where the ingredients are in liquid form. You rip off the tab at the top and can literally squirt truBrain into your mouth.

After checking out the packaging for a little while, I actually started to warm up to the idea of a liquid nootropic. Why? 99% of nootropics on the market at in pill form. This gives you almost no way to try a little bit of the nootropic before diving in and taking a full dose. Some nootropics out there aren’y made with the best ingredients and can even make you feel ill. However, with the truBrain liquid delivery method, you can dose out the nootropic as you see fit.

My first day using truBrain, I woke up at around 7:30am, had a full breakfast (eggs and fruit) and skipped my regular coffee. This is because truBrain contains 80mg to 100mg of caffeine (depending on which version you take). For one, I didn’t want my regular coffee to interfere with the review and secondly, I didn’t want to go overboard with caffeine.

Since it was my first time using truBrain, I decided not to take the whole “shot” at one time. When it comes to nootropics, and supplements in general, I like to dip my toe in the water first before going all in. This is because I have had adverse reactions to some supplements in the past.

After taking about 1/4 of the bottle, I didn’t really notice much. Noon rolled around and I decided to have about half of what was left. About 20 minutes later I started to feel its effects. The small amount of caffeine, mixed with the racetams, and L-Theanine did exactly what I thought it would — gave me an amazing cognitive boost.

Do you know how you feel when your mind feels at its peak performance, when your thinking is incredibly clear? That is exactly how I felt using truBrain. Every aspect of my mental performance felt like it got a boost – mental clarity, focus, energy, and even verbal intelligence. I’m going to run through each to give you a better idea of what you might expect when using truBrain…

• Mental Clarity: I noticed the first uptick in my mental clarity when I was writing an email after taking the full dose of truBrain and the words starts to flow from my brain to the page much quicker than usual. It felt as if my mind was able to make connections to words and string together sentences a lot easier.
• Focus: While putting together a proposal for a new client, I was able to keep a sustained focus for longer than usual. Normally my focus wains around 30 minutes in and I start to get slightly bored with whatever it is that I’m doing. Because of this I usually take a break, which interrupts the flow of work and sets me back a little. With truBrain, I didn’t feel as though I needed to take any breaks because my focus was at 100% for longer periods of time. This meant I could get more done in a day. A huge plus!
• Energy: I have a love hate relationship with caffeine. I love the boost of energy it gives me but I usually end up taking too much and crashing near the end of the day. The mixture of caffeine and L-Theanine in truBrain, was perfect for giving me the right boost of energy without making me crash. The key is the L-Theanine, which helps prevent crashing and any jitters caused by caffeine.
• Verbal Intelligence: What I enjoyed the most while using truBrain was my ability to form sentences quicker and easier. I often find, when not using a nootropic, that I have to pause to collect my thoughts before responding to someone in a conversation. I also normally use a lot of filler words such as “ah” or “um”. While on truBrain, all of these things nearly disappeared. My ability to form clear and concise sentences skyrocketed and I barely ever used filler words while speaking. This helped me come off as much smarter and eloquent on business phone calls and in meetings.

My last day using truBrain (30 days in) I found that the normal dose didn’t quite give me the same boost that it once did in the beginning. Because of this, I started to cycle off of it more regularly. My cycle usually goes 5 days on, 2 days off (week days and weekends). Or, if I have a lot of work, I will do 2 weeks on, 4 days off. It’s important to cycle off of any nootropic so you don’t build up a tolerance and need to take more than the recommended dose to feel the same effects that you once did.

Lastly, I want to briefly mention a great side effect that truBrain had for me. It made me sleep like a baby. I have no idea how or why but every time I would take truBrain in the morning, I would get one of the best nights sleep. At first I thought it had nothing to do with truBrain but it continually happened every time I took it.

BrainWiz Tips

• If taking Original or Boost, use truBrain in the morning for all-day focus that builds over time.
• This supplement’s best effects tend to be cumulative, so patience for a few days is advisable when starting truBrain.
• Take with a fish oil supplement to take advantage of the potent Uridine/Choline/Fish Oil stack mentioned above. Research suggests these three ingredients work synergistically to boost cognition.
• truBrain mixes well with smoothies and protein shakes and has a sweet but somewhat neutral flavor.
• As with any supplement or nutritional regimen, you should talk to your doctor or medical professional before use. Individuals taking MAO-inhibitors or who suffer from compromised renal function or hemophilia should not take truBrain.

Supplement Summary

truBrain has innovative packaging and marketing behind it, but what impresses us most about the company is the team of trained neuroscientists and researchers who develop their products. Most of our testers enjoyed the product, and there’s more to truBrain’s shots than novelty. Our testers felt no jitters when taking truBrain shots, which is a rarity for supplements that include moderate to significant amounts of caffeine.

The effects did build over time, so it takes a bit of patience in order to get the  maximum benefits of this supplement. If you drink smoothies or protein shakes, or are looking for a brain supplement that provides all-day clarity, truBrain is a convenient and pleasant-tasting addition to a morning routine.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I am very impressed with truBrain. The way they packaged it in liquid form made me a little confused at first but after trying it, I really don’t know why more supplement companies do the same. It is so much easier to control how much you have and spread it out across a day.

Many days, I found myself reaching for a truBrain more often than I found myself reaching for coffee. If you have ever taken piracetam, oxiracetam, or noopept, you will be familiar with the effects of truBrain. However, if you haven’t and trying to decided which to take seems daunting or confusing, I recommend giving truBrain a shot. It is very beginner friendly and you do not need to feel pressure to take the entire dose.

One thing I like about truBrain is that they have a trial package. Many nootropic companies only offer the full versions of their products and make you pay full price for them if you want to try them out. TruBrain offers a 10-drink trial so that you can see how it works before making a full purchase.

Regardless of whether you’re new to the world of nootropics or have a lot of experience, there are a lot of benefits to trying truBrain. My experience got me hooked and now I use truBrain regularly during the average workday. I have even gone as far as giving away some to friends and family to try (who have loved it).

Click here to check the current price of truBrain. After trying, come back and leave a comment about your experience! I’d love to know what you think.

The post A Tasty Shot To Charge Your Brain? Reviewing TruBrain appeared first on Brain Wiz.

We wanted to find out if they packed any punch, or if their nootropics were just souped-up vitamin duds. The first up for review is Ginkgo Smart by Irwin Naturals (click for best price). Let’s take a look inside.

Ginkgo Smart Label & Ingredients

The Ingredients

• Fish Oil (30% Omega-3 Fatty Acids) – 878 mg
  • Omega-3 fatty acids play crucial roles in many bodily functions, and while they’re often recommended for heart health, it’s important not to overlook their benefit to the brain. These fatty acids are heavily concentrated in the brain and are important to its development and function. Many Americans (and generally people in Western countries) don’t get enough omega-3 fatty acids in their diet. This isn’t a particularly high concentration of omega-3s, and we’ve seen supplements with up to 80% purity instead of the 30% here. Of course, it’s just one ingredient in this supplement, but more and more companies are creating fatty acid blends targeted for brain health, be on the lookout for our reviews of those soon.
• Ginkgo powder (leaf) – 400mg/Ginkgo extract (24% flavone glycodises, 6% terpene lactones) (leaf) – 120 mg
  • Ginkgo has been used for thousands of years to promote memory in Chinese medicine. More recently, clinical studies and research reviews have pointed to its efficacy in fighting dementia and neural decline.
• Acetyl L-Caritine – 50 mg
  • This compound pairs very well with choline; when combined, the two form the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Having both in the same supplement is a good hedge in case the body is deficient in either compound. We’re pleased Lumonol includes both compounds in order to promote acetylcholine levels.
• Choline (as Choline-Bitartrate) – 50 mg
  • Choline-Bitartrate, a vitamin-like chemical, helps the body produce acetylcholine, one of the main neurotransmitters involved in learning along with other cognitive processes. It’s a fairly common ingredient in nootropic supplements and stacks. Many Americans are choline deficient, and this dosage is a bit more than 100% of the recommended daily value.
• DMAE Bitartrate – 50 mg
  • DMAE Bitrate, or Deanol, is a chemical used to treat ADHD, improve memory and boost cognitive function. Deanol is essential to the production of choline, one of the building blocks of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is vital for a number of nervous system activities, including signaling the heart to keep beating.
• Trimethylglycine – 50 mg
  • Also known as betaine, may act similarly to choline when ingested, though its most documented benefits are actually in the realm of physical performance (reduced fatigue, increased muscular endurance). This is a compound we don’t see too much of in the world of nootropics, mostly because so much of the research evidence surrounding it has to do with muscular endurance rather than brain enhancement.
• Alpha-Lipoic Acid 20 mg
  • Alpha Lipoic Acid is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory chemical that has been used to treat memory loss and chronic fatigue syndrome.
• Velvet Bean extract (10% L-dopa) 10 mg
  • Velvet bean extract is a solid, concentrated source of L-DOPA, a drug commonly used to treat Parkinsons Disease. It is a dopamine precursor.
• Vinpocetine (from Lesser Periwinkle extract) (whole plant) – 2 mg
  • Vinpocetine is a chemical derived from the periwinkle plant, known to increase cerebral blood flow. Doctors in Hungary have been prescribing this compound to treat cerebrovascular disorders for decades.
• Toothed Clubmoss extract (1% huperzine A) (plant) – 1 mg
  • Clubmoss is the most common source for Huperzine A, a compound that has been used to improve cognitive performance in patients with Alzheimer’s.
• BioPerine Complex (BioPerine Black Pepper extract 95% piperine and ginger extract 5% ginerols) – 6 mg
  • BioPerine is a common ingredient in Irwin Naturals products, as well as products from other general supplement manufacturers. Research suggests BioPerine/black pepper extract in the form of piperine helps the body more efficiently absorb a variety of nutrients through the digestive tract. If effective, it’s a good compliment to this supplement’s stack of nootropic ingredients.
• Other Ingredients: Gelatin, soy lecithin, purified water, glycerin, beeswax, lurmeric, titanium dioxide and sodium copper chlorophyllin. Contains: Soy, Fish (anchovy, sardine)

Usage Guidelines

Take two liquid soft gels daily with a full glass of water. Do not use if you may become pregnant, are pregnant or nursing. State of California Prop 65: This product contains a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. We had our BrainWiz testers take 2 capsules per day.

What Our Testers Say

“I was not expecting to like this supplement; it didn’t contain anything on the label that struck me as particularly effective or innovative. But I have to admit I felt clear-headed every morning I took this (usually with caffeine, but once without; still clear). I’m wondering if the BioPerine helps speed or facilitate absorption, because the effect, though not the most powerful I’ve felt by a long shot, came on pretty quickly.”

“I made the mistake of taking this on a completely empty stomach the first day, no water, no food, and it caused some very mild nausea. This didn’t happen when I actually followed the instructions and drank it with a big glass of water. If anything, I felt slightly increased focus, but it wasn’t particularly powerful.”

“I’m actually still taking this supplement. I think I respond well to something a bit milder occasionally, though the entire time I’ve been taking this has been pretty quiet at work. When a bit stressful project comes up, I’ll probably reach for something more powerful. I might swap out with another Irwin Naturals stack for regular use to try it out.”

“This is probably the mildest supplement I’ve tried that increased focus and energy (I’ve tried others that did nothing, but I’m not counting those). I’d like it if they released a version without the fish oil since I already take a more concentrated fish oil I really like. It’d also be nice if they used non-soy capsules, but that’s a pretty minor concern for me.”

BrainWiz Tips

• Our testers all experienced mild effects with no jitters. This is a good start if you’re new to the world of nootropics and want to explore brain enhancers gradually.
• Take with a full glass of water and/or meal to avoid any stomach cramps; this is often true of fish oil-containing supplements.
• This supplement seems to pair well with coffee and other food/drink sources of caffeine (our testers didn’t try it with other caffeine-containing nootropics, which could potentially cause jitteriness).
• If you shouldn’t be taking fish oil for any health reason, it’s a good idea to steer clear of Ginkgo Smart. As with any supplement regime, it’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes.

Supplement Summary 

Ginkgo Smart is a mild brain enhancer good for people who aren’t sure whether nootropics are right for them. It effects are noticeable and very quick, but they won’t bring on Limitless-like focus and new realms of mental clarity. It also doubles as a fish oil supplement, and we appreciate the inclusion of BioPerine as a compound that could potentially enhance absorption of its other ingredients. If you want a mild cognitive boost to pair with breakfast, this is a very solid choice.

The post Do You Want A Mild Brain Boost? Reviewing Ginkgo Smart By Irwin Naturals appeared first on Brain Wiz.

View Results Of Alpha Brain’s Clinical Trials

We were very excited to try Alpha Brain after a few friends recommended it as a great compliment to their morning routines (including coffee; this is a caffeine-free nootropic). Read on to find out what we learned about this popular nootropic with lots of mainstream hype in our full Alpha BRAIN review.

Get the best price on Alpha BRAIN by checking out our coupons page for special discounts!

Alpha Brain Label Ingredients

The Ingredients

Alpha Brain comes in vegetable capsules, with 30 two-capsule servings per bottle.

• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCI) – 10mg
  • Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble essential vitamin, involved in the production of neurotransmitters. Studies show that when taken in conjunction with Magnesium, B6 improved school attention in children diagnosed with ADHD.

Onnit Flow Blend

• L-Tyrosine
  • L-Tyrosine is well-linked to improving cognitive performance under conditions of stress, and the compound has been shown to actually reduce symptoms of stress itself, likely because it is involved in the production of dopamine.
• L-Theanine
  • L-Theanine is an amino acid known to support a calm mood without inducing sleepiness. When used in conjunction with caffeine, it has been observed to reduce error rates while performing tasks.
• Oat Straw Extract (Avena Sativa)
  • Oat Straw Extract has been tested as a cognitive performance enhancer. It works by reducing symptoms of both neurological stress and exhaustion.
• Phosphatidylserine
  • Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid required to maintain healthy nerve cell membranes. It supports cognitive function and the ability to learn and recall new information.
• AC-11 (Uncaria tomentosa Extract) – 350mg
  • AC-11 is a proprietary Cat’s Claw Extract. Cat’s Claw has been studied for its ability to repair DNA and its anti-inflammatory properties.

Onnit Focus Blend

• L-Alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine (Alpha GPC)
  • Choline is a vital compound in neurotransmission, and research suggests many Americans don’t get enough from their regular diets (in fact, choline-based nootropics are increasingly common, and some of our testers have experienced enhanced memory and focus simply from supplementing choline). It’s a common ingredient in many nootropic stacks, and we’re not surprised Onnit has included it in Alpha Brain.
• Bacopa monniera Extract
  • Bacopa Monnieri is an herb used in Ayurveda as an antidepressant, and a cognitive booster. While performing stressful cognitive tests, those taking Bacopa Monnieri experienced the herb’s nootropic effects and reduced stress and cortisol levels.
• Huperzia Serrata Extract
  • This plant extract is an Acetylcholinesterase (AchE)inhibitor. AchE breaks down the Acetylcholine, and Huperzia Serrata restrains the process, allowing more Acetylcholine to be available for the brain’s neurons.

Onnit Fuel Blend

• L-Leucine
  • Leucine is an essential  branched chain amino acid involved in protein synthesis and a number of other metabolic functions. We’ve seen it in many energy stacks before to great effect.
• Vinpocetine
  • Vinpocetine is a chemical derived from the periwinkle plant and is known to increase cerebral blood flow. Doctors in Hungary have been prescribing this compound to treat cerebrovascular disorders for decades.
• Pterostilbene
  • An antioxidant found in blueberries and grapes, this compound has known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic properties. Recently, studies have indicated a link between pterostilbene and improved brain health.
• Other Ingredients: Vegetarian Capsule (Cellulose, Water), Bamboo Silica

Read our review of Onnit’s fast-dissolving Alpha BRAIN Instant formula.

Usage Guidelines

For mental performance: Take 2 capsules in the morning or early afternoon. For enhanced dream state aka lucid dreams: Take 1-2 capsules 4-6 hours before sleep. For those over 200 lb., dosage can be increased to 3 capsules per day. Do not exceed 3 capsules in a 24 hour period.

We had several BrainWiz testers take between 1 and 3 capsules per day.

What Our Testers Say

“Alpha Brain is one of the best nootropics I have tried. I feel alert and focused within 20 minutes of taking the pills and there is no jitteriness or crash. There is no afternoon fogginess, and I also noticed that I was remembering things quicker. I worked my way up to three capsules a day, but I felt the effects diminish the longer I took it.”

“I tried this as both a cognitive enhancer and, in the afternoon, as a lucid dream inducer. I like the clarity I get when I take it in the morning, and I have never experienced dreams like this before. When on Alpha Brain, I’m aware that I am dreaming, and the details are vivid.”

“I’ve been taking Alpha Brain first thing when I wake up, along with my morning coffee. I feel clear-headed, and focused well into the afternoon. I didn’t feel any jitters, and I appreciated that I didn’t have to modify my caffeine intake around this supplement.”

“I really enjoy the way I feel on this when reviewing Alpha BRAIN. I can feel an improvement on my decision-making time under stress, which is exactly what I’m looking for in a nootropic. I did feel the effects start to diminish after two weeks on it, so I took a couple of days off, and the effects came back.”

My Alpha Brain Experience

Alpha Brain is one of the most popular nootropics I’ve ever come across. So when it came time for me to review it, I was very excited.

I was excited for two reasons… First, Alpha Brain is the supplement that initially peaked my interest in nootropics a long time ago (after hearing about it on the Joe Rogan podcast). Second, I’ve read a lot of positive personal experiences.

Below is my day-by-day review of Alpha Brain…

Day One

I’d received my package from Onnit two days prior but knew that I wouldn’t have enough time to properly review it during those days so I waited until I had seven consecutive days to start.

I started day one by opening up the box it came in and took a half dose. I do this every time I take a new supplement just to see how my body initially reacts the first day. If there’s worst case scenario, I can mitigate how bad it is.

Luckily there was no bad reaction the first day of taking Alpha Brain. Surprisingly I didn’t feel much on day one but I chalked it up to only taking half a dose.

Day Two

Since day one went off without any negative effects, I decided to take a full dose. About thirty to forty minutes later I started to feel the effects. The most noticeable initial change was a wave of mental clarity. It felt similar to drinking green tea but without the stimulant effects of caffeine. My brain felt “awake”, like when you wake up from a great night’s sleep and don’t feel groggy at all.

Day two was a Monday so after breakfast I got to work. There was a slight overall feeling of motivation/productivity during the morning that continued well into mid-afternoon. This mental clarity and motivation definitely helped me get a lot of things done that I would have previous procrastinated.

One thing I noticed on day two was that I wasn’t energized. This is probably because Alpha Brain doesn’t contain any stimulants. Since I’m used to drinking a cup of coffee or two in the morning, I didn’t feel that jolt of adrenaline from the caffeine.

Day Three

Day three was filled with work calls and client meetings. One interesting thing I noticed was that I was able to speak much more fluently — without “ums” and “ahs”. That’s not to say I became a perfect orator but I definitely noticed a difference in the efficient way I was able to form sentences. My brain and mouth seemed to be working a bit more in unison.

Day Four

Another day of emails, writing, and client work. The positive mental effects I noticed on days two and three hadn’t subsided, which surprised me.

I’ve yet to notice any negative effects. In fact, one of the nice positive effects was that I was able to get a nap in mid-day. For most people this is probably simple but since I usually drink a lot of coffee, it’s tough for me to take a nap (even when I’m tired). The caffeine keeps my brain awake. Since I had worked late the night before, I was starting to fade early afternoon so I laid down for a bit. During my 45-minute nap I noticed that my dreams were incredibly vivid. Upon waking up, I did a bit of research and realized this is a common occurrence among those who take Alpha Brain.

Day Five

Surprisingly, the effects of Alpha Brain haven’t subsided, even with daily use. My mental clarity and verbal intelligence were both at an all-time high.

I ended up having coffee around 2pm with a client of mine and noticed that the caffeine mixed with Alpha Brain gave me a big boost of energy. Upon getting to the office, I found myself able to get more done in the next 3 hours than I had all day.

Day Six

Because I experienced no negative side effects using Alpha Brain and drinking my daily morning coffee, I decided to have both in the morning on day six. This pepped me up a lot and led to me being able to get some big projects done.

One small negative was that I did find myself starting to become more mentally tired at the end of the day (at around 7pm). This could be because I was mentally exerting myself a lot during the day or because I was mixing caffeine and Alpha Brain.

Day Seven

The last day of me taking Alpha Brain and I started to notice a slight decline in its effects. Of course, this is totally normal with any supplement that is being taking consecutively. Onnit suggests cycling off of Alpha Brain once and a while so that your body doesn’t get used to it and progressively need more to feel its effects.

BrainWiz Tips

After comparing experiences and effectiveness, here are our best tips for getting the most out of Alpha Brain :

• Alpha Brain contains no caffeine, so it pairs well when you’re already taking in caffeine, like with your morning coffee. The quick energy “wave” our testers felt was also most desirable in the morning or early afternoon, to avoid an energy slump.
• Our testers experienced no negative side effects from this supplement. But as with any supplement or nutritional regimen, you should talk to your doctor or medical professional before use.
• Take just before eating to take advantage of an active digestive system and promote absorption.
• If you’re using the supplement to induce lucid dreaming, start with one or two capsules in the afternoon and work your way up to three.

Supplement Summary

Alpha Brain is an effective caffeine-free and BSCG Certified nootropic stacked with a number of effective earth-grown ingredients. This BSCG certification signifies that Alpha Brain is drug-free and comprised only of naturally grown ingredients, making it somewhat unique in the nootropic space. We were initially skeptical about its effectiveness given such a clean pedigree, but all four of our testers experienced noticeable cognitive boosts.

In addition to a cognitive boost, some users feel increased focus and stamina. When taken in the afternoon, Alpha Brain can induce vivid, lucid dreams at night. Though its perceived effects seem to diminish over time, taking a break from the supplement for a few days seems to be enough time for its effectiveness to return.

The post Alpha BRAIN Review: Can Onnit’s Earth Grown Supplements Boost Your Brain? appeared first on Brain Wiz.

Today, we’re reviewing Choline Force, a blend of powerful brain and energy-promoting compounds. Many people are deficient in the compounds vital to healthy brain function and do not get enough of them from their regular diets; in addition to a blend of nootropic compounds, Choline Force provides an extra dosage of several compounds necessary for neurotransmitter function. This is especially relevant for vegetarians or vegans, as many common sources of choline and other brain-boosting compounds are eggs, meat, and dairy.

Choline Force Label & Ingredients

The Ingredients

Choline Force comes in capsules, with 120 capsules per bottle. There are 30 four-capsule servings per container.

Active Ingredients:

One thing we like about Upgraded Self products is that they normally list the amounts of ingredients in each supplement, while many other nootropic companies don’t reveal the dosages in their proprietary blends. With Choline Force that’s especially important, as this supplement works in part by fixing deficiencies in compounds vital to brain function.

• Choline  (as choline bitartrate) – 500mg
  • Choline-Bitartrate, a vitamin-like chemical, helps the body produce acetylcholine, one of the main neurotransmitters involved in learning along with other cognitive processes. It’s a fairly common ingredient in nootropic supplements and stacks, and Choline Force provides a pretty high dosage compared to other supplements we’ve tried. Many Americans are choline deficient, and the dosage in Choline Force is a bit more than 100% of the recommended daily value for the average adult.
• Huperzine-A (Lycopodium serrata whole plant extract) – 52 mcg
  • Huperzine A is a compound derived from Chinese club moss that has been used to improve cognitive performance in patients with declining mental health.
• Vinpocetine – 20mg
  • Vinpocetine is a chemical derived from the periwinkle plant, known to increase cerebral blood flow. Doctors in Hungary have been prescribing this compound to treat cerebrovascular disorders for decades.
• DMAE (dimethylamineoethanol bitartrate) – 252mg
  • DMAE Bitrate or Deanol,  is a chemical used to treat ADHD, improve memory, and boost cognitive function. Deanol is essential to the production and of choline, one of the building blocks of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. It’s a chemical precursor to choline and boosts alertness.
• Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) – 100mcg
  • Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble essential vitamin directly related to brain health, including memory and actual brain mass. A number of studies have noted positive associations between vitamin B12 intake and performance on memory tests.
• Pantothenic Acid (calcium pantothenate) – 124mg
  • Also known as vitamin B5, this is a water-soluble essential vitamin needed for healthy nervous system function.
• Pyroglutamic Acid – 252mg
  • Pyroglutamic Acid is an amino acid and a known cognition-enhancing agent that works in conjunction with acetylcholine, GABA, and glycine. We’re happy to see this in a choline-based supplement, as it can enhance its effects. Compared to other supplements with choline, this ingredient gives Choline Force a big advantage, and a few of our testers noticed the difference.
• L-Phenylalanine – 252 mg
  • L-Phenylanine is an amino acid that promotes general brain function and reduces the effects of age-related memory decline. Some potential side effects of L-phenylalanine supplementation include headaches and jitters. Those with Parkinson’s and schizophrenia can develop other negative symptoms when taking phenylalanine.
• Ginkgo leaf extract (24% ginkgoflavonglycosides) – 60 mg
  • Ginkgo has been used for thousands of years to promote memory in Chinese medicine. More recently, clinical studies and research reviews have pointed to its efficacy in fighting dementia and neural decline.
• Other Ingredients: Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (vegetarian capsule), microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate.

Usage Guidelines

• Take 4 capsules up to two times per day with food or as directed by your healthcare professional. Choline Force promotes healthy levels of key neurotransmitters in the brain, boosting clear thinking and sharp memory. Choline Force also contains vinpocetine and ginkgo to support health cerebral blood flow, and B-vitamins to support cognitive energy.
• People have varying amounts of acetylcholine in their brains, thus requiring varying doses. Having too little acetylcholine can decrease brain function, while too much of it (being “choline dominant”) can cause excessive jaw or muscle tension. If you experience these symptoms, reduce your dose of Bulletproof® Choline Force.
• If you are taking other substances that increase your body’s demand for acetylcholine, you will especially benefit from this supplement. We had several BrainWiz testers take between 4 and 8 capsules per day.

What Our Testers Say

“Choline Force gave me a light ”˜wave’ of energy. That’s how I’d describe it, a wave. It was really mild, but decidedly noticeable. I appreciate that it is a different energy than that of caffeine, which often gives me jitters even in low dosage. There wasn’t a crash, but there were diminished results the more days in a row I took it.”

“I didn’t really feel much on this supplement. It could have something to do with the fact that I eat about four eggs every day, which are loaded with choline, does not make me the best candidate for this supplement.”

“I’ve been taking four capsules in the mornings with my coffee. I did feel slightly more focused, but the feeling is gone by midday, when I take four more capsules to help me get through the afternoon slump.”

“These definitely help me keep my concentration and focus on the task at hand. The effects were more pronounced in the first couple of days, and then the effects diminished. I tried cycling off for a couple of days, and was able to achieve the same focus effect when I started taking it again.”

BrainWiz Tips

• Choline Force contains no caffeine, so it pairs well when you’re already taking in caffeine, like with your morning coffee. The light “wave” of energy our testers felt was also most desirable in the morning.
• Our testers experienced no negative side effects from this supplement. But as with any supplement or nutritional regimen, you should talk to your doctor or medical professional before use. If you do have excess choline, it can cause jaw or muscle tension, which is why the manufacturer suggests a range of potential sizes. This product also contains phenylalanine, which can cause side effects in some people with preexisting conditions.
• Take just before eating to take advantage of an active digestive system and promote absorption.
• Our testers felt diminishing effects after roughly a week of taking Choline Force. After a few days off from the supplement, taking one or more servings (4 pills each) of Choline Force once again produced a desired cognitive boost. We recommend pairing it with caffeine or guarana, and to use it in a “1 week on, 3 days off” pattern in order to keep feeling the effects of the supplement.

Supplement Summary

Choline Force is a great caffeine-free nootropic stack, especially for those suffering from a choline deficiency. In addition to a cognitive boost and improved focus, some users feel increased physical energy. Though its perceived effects seem to diminish over time, taking a break from the supplement for a few days seems to be enough time for its effectiveness to return.

Like other Bulletproof/Upgraded Self products, Choline Force is a very clean, transparent supplement with ingredient dosages clearly listed. Our testers had a generally positive experience with no side-effects. They knew exactly what they were taking, in what dosages, and to what effect. This is definitely NOT a mystery pill.

The post Insurance For Your Brain? Reviewing Choline Force By Bulletproof appeared first on Brain Wiz.

View Best Lumonol Price

Developed and manufactured in the United States by Avanse Nutraceuticals, Lumonol’s site provides a great deal of content on its ingredients and effectiveness, along with a 90 day money back guarantee. We set out to find out if the information and transparency on their site matched up with a quality product. Read below for our full Lumonol review.

Lumonol Ingredients

The Ingredients

Lumonol’s ingredients are grouped into blends focusing on three main goals: Focus, Energy, and Memory.

• Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin) – 250mcg
  • An essential vitamin B nutrient, B12 plays an important role in numerous bodily functions, including neurological function and development. The particular form of B12 contained in Lumonol is a form most often used to reduce brain fog and promote mental energy due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
• Memory Blend – 170mg
  • There are no listed amounts for each individual component of the proprietary blend, but the ingredients are below.
• Alpha GPC
  • Choline is a vital compound in neurotransmission, and research suggests many Americans don’t get enough from their regular diets (in fact, choline-based nootropics are increasingly common, and some of our testers have experienced enhanced memory and focus simply from supplementing choline). It’s a common ingredient in many nootropic stacks, and we’re not surprised Avanse included it in Lumonol. Alpha GPC is one of the most bioavailable forms of choline and among the best compounds at increasing brain concentration of choline after ingestion, we generally think of it as the highest quality form of choline in nootropic supplements.
• Ginkgo Biloba
  • Ginkgo has been used for thousands of years to promote memory in Chinese medicine. More recently, clinical studies and research reviews have pointed to its efficacy in fighting dementia and neural decline.
• Focus Blend – 515mg
  • There are no listed amounts for each individual component of the proprietary blend, but the ingredients are below.
• Noopept
  • This is perhaps Lumonol’s signature ingredient, and it contains 15mg of Noopept. Originally studied for its use in fighting cognitive decline, Noopept is now linked to powerful nootropic effects. Its effect is similar to Piracetam, a long-time preferred ingredient for nootropic/brain supplement pioneers. However, a much lower dosage of Noopept is needed to achieve the same cognitive boost, up to 1000 times less, in fact. Both Noopept and Piracetam have been shown to be well-tolerated by users with a generally low risk of side effects. *As always, it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor before starting a new supplement regime. Noopept metabolizes very quickly, within 25 minutes or less after oral ingestion, and it has a potentially cumulative effect, meaning it gets more effective after repeated use. Our testers felt its effects very quickly after taking Lumonol. Noopept also provides a neuroprotective when supplemented, potentially protecting against oxidative damage/stress and some physical traumas. This class of compounds interacts with choline receptors, and we’re glad to see Lumonol include citicoline in the supplement as well; taking Piracetam or similar compounds without enough choline can in some cases result in a dull headache, though none of our testers experienced this at any point with Lumonol.
• Acetyl L-Carnitine
  • This compound pairs very well with choline; when combined, the two form the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Having both in the same supplement is a good hedge in case the body is deficient in either compound. We’re pleased Lumonol includes both compounds in order to promote acetylcholine levels.
• L-Tyrosine
  • Avanse claims L-Tyrosine pairs well with many other ingredients in Lumonol’s nootropic stack. There’s good evidence to support that claim, as L-Tyrosine is well-linked to improving cognitive performance under conditions of stress, and the compound has been shown to actually reduce symptoms of stress itself, likely because it is involved in the production of dopamine.
• Phosphatidylserine
  • This is a widely-used nootropic compound that, until the 1990s, was very difficult to synthesize. Clinical testing and trials have linked it to improved cognition, and the compound has also been shown to reduce cortisol (a well-known stress hormone) levels.
• Energy Blend – 430mg
  • There are no listed amounts for each individual component of the proprietary blend, but the ingredients are below.
• Guarana
  • Guarana is a climbing Amazonian plant containing almost four times the amount of caffeine as coffee beans. Even in low doses, it can provide more stimulation than caffeine alone due to its concentration of phytonutrients. Guarana pairs especially well with many of the nootropic compounds found in Lumonol, increasing their effectiveness and pronounced effects across the board.
• Panax Ginseng
  • Like its counterpart ginkgo, ginseng has been used for millennia to improve memory. Ginseng is especially well-tied to memory response time, decreasing the amount of time it takes to recall facts.
• Hordenine
  • This is a compound we haven’t seen in too many product before, but due to Lumonol’s inclusion of other dopamine-enhancing ingredients (see L-Tyrosine, above), we’re not surprised. Hordenine increases dopamine availability by inhibiting its breakdown (or oxidation) in our bodies. It’s a good complement to L-Tyrosine in this particular supplement, another one of Lumonol’s synergistic interactions.
• Other Ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Magnesium Stearate, Silicon Dioxide

Usage Guidelines

From the Avanse packaging and website:

For mental performance, focus and energy: Start with 2 capsules per day. Lumonol’s effects are cumulative, building over time. With that said, Lumonol does provide an intense boost to motivation within 20 minutes of ingestion. We recommend that if you are new to nootropics that upon receiving your Lumonol order you run a sensitivity test by consuming a single capsule per day for the first few days.

Serving Size: Upon successful completion of a 1 capsule “tolerance test day”, take 2 capsules per day. You may take Lumonol before eating, or after, and may consume after lunchtime if a productive afternoon is required. Taking Lumonol too close to bedtime may result in a restless night. Lumonol should be supplemented in 90 day cycles, with 15 – 30 days break in between. Lumonol’s effects build with time.

We had BrainWiz testers take between 1 and 2 capsules per day.

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