It’s no secret we’re fans of Onnit’s Alpha BRAIN (though not without a few reservations). And in addition to the company’s new Alpha BRAIN Instant formula, Onnit also produces a powdered, drinkable supplement that combines highlighted ingredients from several of their supplements, including New Mood and Shroom Tech. The formula, Onnit 180, is, according to the manufacturer, “designed to help the body recover.” It’s Onnit’s recommended supplement to fight jet lag, all-nighters, hangovers, and “pity parties.”

Check the best price on Onnit 180 here.

The combination of neurotransmitter support, adaptogens, 5-HTP, vitamins, and minerals in Onnit 180 definitely grabbed on interest. Read on to find out if this combination delivers on its big promises.

The Ingredients

• For Cognitive Support from Alpha Brain
  • Bacopa monnieri Extract – 50 mg
  • Oatstraw Extract – 30 mg
  • Huperzia serrata Extract – 30 mg
  • Alpha GPC – 50 mg
  • L-Theanine – 100 mg
  • L-Tyrosine HCI – 100 mg
  • AC-11® (Uncaria tomentosa Extract) – 250 mg
  • Vinpocetine – 4 mg
  • Pterostilbene – 2 mg
  • Phosphatidylserine – 50 mg
• For Stress Reduction from Shroom Tech Sport®
  • Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin) – 1 mg
• For Mood Support from New Mood®
  • 5-HTP – 50 mg
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacin) – 30 mg
  • Magnesium (Chelate) – 50 mg
• For Caffeine Free Energy
  • Rhodiola Extract (Rhodiola rosea) – 200 mg
  • Ashwagandha root Extract – 200 mg
  • Grape seed Extract – 100 mg
  • Sodium (Bicarbonate) – 10 mg (Helpful with the recovery from dehydration.)
  • Fibersol® 2 – 900 mg (Designed to delay hunger and increase satiety hormones.)
  • Alpha Lipoic Acid – 50 mg (A fatty acid and antioxidant.)
  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamine HCI) – 15 mg
  • Vitamin B5 (Calcium Pantothenate) – 100 mg
  • Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) – 800 IU
  • Iodine (Potassium Iodine) – 1 mg
  • Zinc (Chelate) – 5 mg
  • Selenium (Chelate) – 100 mcg
• Other Ingredients: Non-GMO Prosweet Flavor, Citric Acid, Malic Acid, Natural Orange Flavor, Xylitol, Stevia

Usage Guidelines

• Suggested use: Adults over 150 lbs, drink a serving of 1 packet stirred or shaken with at least 12 oz of water. Adults under 150 lbs, drink a serving of approximately ½ a packet. A second serving of the same quantity as the first may be consumed after a minimum of 6 hours has passed. Do not exceed 1 serving in any 24-hour period unless otherwise directed by your healthcare practitioner.
• For flying: Take 30 minutes prior to takeoff and/or within 30 minutes of landing, depending on the duration of the flight.
• For the occasional bout of depression: Take it on the morning to turn your day around.
• All-nighter or hangover: Take it the morning after.
• Warning: DO NOT use if pregnant, nursing, or under the age of 18. Consult with a healthcare practitioner before taking this or any other nutritional supplement if you have or suspect a medical condition, are taking any medications, particularly blood thinners or drugs designed to interact with neurotransmitters, over-the-counter products, or other non-Onnit dietary supplements. This product contains Niacin that may cause a temporary flush of the skin and is not an adverse reaction.

What Our Testers Say

“This is the real deal. After two nights of little-to-no sleep before the holidays, followed by a little too much to drink, I took this the following morning, on an empty stomach, and was able to feel human again. I even went on a run that afternoon, and I felt just fine. I don’t believe there’s any ”˜cure’ for a hangover besides time, but this took the edge off.”

“Onnit’s 180 worked quick for me, quicker than Alpha BRAIN on its own. I’m a big fan of it for travel, though I’ve only tried it once when jetlag was an issue (I believe it helped, and at the very least, it had me rehydrating). I have kept a packet at my desk at work and one in my travel carry-on, in case of emergencies.”

“The first time I tried it, I took one packet of Onnit 180 one morning when I was feeling kind of uninspired. I felt a lot like I feel when I take Alpha BRAIN, but the effects were much quicker, whereas Alpha BRAIN in pill form kind of builds over the course of a day for me. And the physical effects of 180 were slightly, just slightly, more pronounced, with a small boost of energy. What I’m really looking forward to  is trying it next time I travel.”

“I was a little skeptical of the taste, given the smell and color of the drink, but it wasn’t nearly as bad as I expected. There is a definite earthy (or dirt) taste to it, and I could actually have done without stevia. I really like both Alpha BRAIN and New Mood, and I feel like this is a solid combination of these supplements, making me feel calm, content, and clear headed.”

BrainWiz Tips

• Onnit 180 contains no caffeine, and it pairs well with your morning coffee. Just remember that caffeine can have a dehydrating effect, so if you are taking Onnit 180 after a night of drinking (alcohol can be dehydrating) consider trying it without caffeine first.
• 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.
• According to the manufacturer, Onnit 180 is not for daily consumption.
• If you are sensitive to the taste, mix it with less water, and follow it up with a full 12 oz. of water or another beverage of choice.
• This supplement is portable and fast-acting, making it convenient for travel.

Supplement Summary

Onnit 180 (click for best price) delivers on most of its promises, though it didn’t completely cure jet lag or hangovers in our testers, although it definitely improved their experiences and helped them recover a bit quicker. Onnit advises people that this is not a daily supplement, this surprised us a bit, but given its combination of many different stacks working on multiple neural and energy pathways, we can understand the logic. We had good experiences using it in situations where we needed a fast boost in mood, brain energy, focus, and physical energy.

The post The Ultimate Turnaround for Fatigue and Hangovers? Reviewing Onnit 180 appeared first on Brain Wiz.

But a look at the label doesn’t tell the full story, so we put Neurorise to the test to see if its stack hit an effective sweet spot or proved to be overkill. Read below to find out our take.

The Ingredients

Vitamin D3, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12

These are some of the most common vitamin ingredients, in forms good for brain-friendly metabolization, we see in nootropic formulas. They also interactions with other ingredients in the formula that boost individual and combined effects on cognition, memory recall, and focus.

Rhodiola Rosea (3% Rosavins, 2% Salidrosides)

Rhodiola Rosea is an herb and noted adaptogen used to combat fatigue and fight the effects of stress. Many of our testers like it on its own as a stress-fighting supplement, and it’s been linked to very few negative side effects, if any.

L-Theanine

L-Thanine is an amino acid that supports mood, helps with repetitive tasks, and is often paired with caffeine to prevent jitteriness.

Caffeine Anhydrous

The world’s most popular stimulant, caffeine actually blocks androgen receptors in the brain, fighting fatigue. We like the pairing with L-Theanine in this supplement.

Bacopa Monnieri P.E. 20%

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.

DMAE Bitartrate

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.

Soybean Extract (standardized to 20% Phosphatidylserine)

This form of phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid that is involved in maintaining healthy nerve membranes. It supports the brain’s ability to learn and process new information.

Choline-Bitartrate

Choline-Bitartrate is a vitamin-like chemical thought to help enhance levels of acetylcholine.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha Lipoic Acid is an antioxidant that has been used to treat memory loss and chronic fatigue.

Vinpocetine

Vinpocetine is a chemical derived from the periwinkle plant. It can increase cerebral blood flow.

Huperzine A

Huperzine A is a compound that has been used to improve cognitive performance in patients with Alzheimer’s.

Other Ingredients: Gelatin, brown rice bran, silicon dioxide, vegetable magnesium stearate, titanium dioxide.

Usage Guidelines

To help support increased mental performance, begin by taking 1-2 capsules preferably with food. Depending on desired effect, tolerance, and body type, you may increase the dosage to a single serving of 3-4 capsules. Do not exceed 4 capsules per serving or 6 capsules in any 24 hour period.

What Our Testers Say

“I’ve seen these ingredients before across a lot of nootropic supplements, and this particular combination worked well for me. On their site, Neurorise says the supplement can ”˜boost your performance and exercise capacity’ in the gym, so I’ve been trying it before workouts, with great results.”

“I really liked this supplement and worked up to four capsules in a morning serving, always with breakfast (pills on an empty stomach is a nausea risk for some, and I’m not immune from that). With its caffeine content, Neurorise is a supplement I’d probably want to cycle, maybe a week on and then a few days off before going back to it. I appreciated the energy and clean-feeling focus it gave me.”

“I’d definitely recommend sticking to the usage guidelines on this one, it can be powerful! One or two capsules in the morning does plenty for me; I also had success by taking one capsule with breakfast and one with lunch, splitting up the dosage. Nothing in this stack is blow-you-out-of-the-water innovative, but it’s got some tried and true compounds in a good combination. I liked the focus and sense of motivation I got while taking it. It doesn’t act as fast as Lumonol, but it felt nice and sustained.”

“I’ll never give up my morning coffee (unless I have some serious prodding), but this is a supp that can stand on its own, no additional caffeine required. I worry too many capsules in one serving would cause jitteriness, but I kept to the recommendations and only experienced energy.”

BrainWiz Tips

• Consider taking Neurorise without coffee, you probably won’t need the additional stimulation.
• Take with food to boost absorption and for more sustained energy throughout the day.
• Two of our testers felt diminishing effects after roughly a week of taking Neurorise. After a few days off from the supplement, taking one or more capsules  of Neurorise once again produced a good rush of energy. We recommend cycling it every week or so.
• As with any supplement or nutritional regimen, you should talk to your doctor or medical professional before use, especially if you have a sensitivity to any ingredients in the supplement.

Supplement Summary

Neurorise may not be the most innovative stack on the market, but after testing it out, we actually respect that. Instead of trying to reinvent the wheel and falling flat, Neurorise built a supplement that delivers on its promise of both energy and focus.

It’s not the fastest acting or quite the longest lasting nootropic we’ve tested, but it’s probably all you need for a brain boost in a convenient delivery system (as opposed to combining multiple supplements or trying to time things precisely).

The post Proven Ingredients In The Right Combo? Reviewing Neurorise appeared first on Brain Wiz.

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Our testers tried out the sample packs of of OptiMind to see if the claims of it being a “surprisingly powerful and beautifully balanced” supplement were true.

Read on to find out what our testers thought of it…

OptiMind Ingredients

The Ingredients

• Active Ingredients: Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol) – 385 IU
  • Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin most adults (at least in America and other Western countries) do not get enough of.  Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to cardiovascular disease, mood disorders and impaired cognition, and the vitamin also plays important roles in general brain function.
• Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin) – 500 mcg
  • 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 OptiMind is a form often used to reduce brain fog and promote mental energy due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
• Focus Blend – 1330.08 mg
• 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.
• Bacopa Herb Extract
  • Bacopa Monnieri is an herb used in Ayurveda as an antidepressant and a cognitive booster. A noted adaptogen, Bacopa Monnieri has been linked to reduced stress and nootropic effects.
• Taurine
  • Taurine is an essential amino acid fundamental in the development and function of the central nervous system. You’ll see it as a main ingredient in many energy drinks for its alertness-boosting effects, especially when paired with caffeine and other stimulants.
• 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.
• 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.
• GABA (Gamma Amino Butyric Acid)
  • This amino acid acts in the central nervous system calming nervous brain activity. It is a neuropsychotropic compound that functions as both a nootropic and as a tranquilizer by stimulating dopamine production. Dopamine plays a part in controlling flow of information in the brain while alleviating stress and anxiety.
• Phosphatidylserine (from Soy Lecithin)
  • This chemical has been used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s, geriatric mental-function decline, ADHD, and to improve cognitive function.
• Vinpocetine
  • Vinpocetine is a chemical derived from the periwinkle plant, linked to increase cerebral blood flow. Doctors in Hungary have been prescribing this compound to treat cerebrovascular disorders for decades.
• Sulbutiamine
  • This is a synthetic Vitamin B1 derivative, capable of crossing blood and brain barriers more easily than thiamine. There are studies suggesting it has positive effects on memory and central cholinergic activity.
• Huperzine A (from Toothed Clubmoss Aerial Parts Extract)
  • Clubmoss is the most common source for Huperzine A, a compound that has been used to improve cognitive performance in patients with Alzheimer’s.
• Other Ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose (HPMC), Dicalcium Phosphate, Rice Flour, Magnesium Stearate, Titanium Dioxide (color). Contains: Soy

Usage Guidelines

For elevated mental performance, start with 1-2 capsules in the morning. Increase the dosage as needed. Depending on your body type and tolerance, you may increase this to a single serving of 2-4 capsules, but do not exceed 8 capsules per 24-hour period.

My OptiMind Experience

As with any new supplement, I am naturally skeptical of initial claims. That is no different when it came to OptiMind. However, after my experience of using it for a full week, I was pleasantly surprised.

The first morning I woke up feeling groggy, with a slight case of “brain fog”. This is because I had a hard time falling asleep the night before. Nevertheless, I got out of bed and made breakfast. During breakfast I read over the OptiMind ingredients and suggested use. Everything seemed pretty standard — Bacopa Monnieri, L-Taurine, Phosphatidylserine, GABA, L-Tyrosine, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Caffeine, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Calcium, Magnesium, Vinpocetine, Huperzine A, and Sulbutiamine. I noticed that it contains some of my favorite nootropic ingredients, one of which being Bacopa Monnieri.

I decided to skip my daily morning coffee since OptiMind already has caffeine in it. This is because I didn’t want to double down on my caffeine intake early in the morning and crash by the afternoon. I also didn’t want the caffeine to interfere with the results of the review. So I downed a full dosage with a glass of water and got to work.

After the first 20-minutes, I started to notice a slight increase in energy levels, much like I do when I have a cup of coffee. A little later my focus really started to pick up. My initial experience felt a bit like drinking an energy drink except without feeling jittery or anxious at all and with a ton more focus. I think the reason behind this energy/focus combo comes down to the mixture of caffeine and l-taurine (both of which make up a lot of energy drinks on the market).

As the day went on I realized that I wasn’t as distracted. This meant I could get more done without having to take breaks. In a way, it felt like I could reclaim a few hours of my day — a huge plus!

As the day transitioned into night, I slightly expected a mild crash from the caffeine. However, there was none. This could be because I don’t crash unless I have massive amounts of caffeine or because of the makeup of OptiMind. Regardless, it’s another big plus.

The week that I took OptiMind went very well. The noticeable effects were an increase in energy mixed with higher levels of focus and concentration. This, of course, led to higher levels of productivity too.

By the end of the week, I noticed my to do list was much lighter than it normally was. This was due to the fact that I could get more done during the day than I normally could. As a business owner and as someone who likes to be as efficient with their time as possible, I really liked this aspect of taking OptiMind.

Surprisingly, by the seventh day, I had not built up a tolerance. I usually see a waning effect in the benefits when taking a nootropic by the seventh day. This is because my body tends to get used to the dosage and need more to feel the same effects as a result. I’m sure there would come a time that I would need to cycle off OptiMind but I didn’t need to while reviewing it.

Overall, I was very happy with how OptiMind performed. They kept it simple when it comes to nootropic ingredients and created a supplement that does what it says it will — increase focus and energy.

After reviewing OptiMind I decided to keep some capsules at my desk because I like to use them when I’m on a deadline and really need to focus. They have been lifesavers especially when pulling “all nighters” because of the increase in energy that they give.

What Our Testers Say

“I started out with 2 capsules in the morning with breakfast, and I felt a pretty clear wave of energy and focus. This lasted well into the afternoon… I upped the dosage to 3 capsules to see how that felt.”

“I took the full four-capsule dose as a pre-workout. I felt energized and ready for the workout…”

“I tried out OptiMind with my usual cup of coffee in the morning, starting with 2 capsules on the first day, and then 3 capsules on the second day. I had a quite a ‘wired’ morning after 3 capsules. I felt clear-headed and was able to concentrate on the task at hand… I tried it again with no coffee the next morning, and I felt productive.”

BrainWiz Tips

• Our testers felt the positive effects of OptiMind with a dosage of 2 capsules; increasing consumption to 3 or 4 capsules did not increase its perceived effects, but it did produce some jitteriness on some of our testers. There’s a good chance 2 will be plenty, though individual tolerances and reactions will vary.
• Because OptiMind has an unspecified amount of caffeine, we suggest you go easy on coffee consumption when starting.
• As with any supplement or nutritional regimen, you should check with your doctor or medical professional before use.

Supplement Summary

OptiMind’s formula consists of a number of popular nootropic ingredients paired with energy boosters like caffeine and B vitamins. Our testers experienced a mental and physical boost, but the fact that the amount of caffeine per serving is not listed had some of our testers feeling like Goldilocks: It took awhile to find the right dosage for them.

OptiMind’s manufacturer has some mainstream traction, and their formula is a bit different than others we’ve encountered (for example, it doesn’t contain a direct form of choline, but it does have ingredients involved in choline production). But we weren’t over-the-moon impressed.

Always remember to consult a trusted medical professional before taking any supplement. We are not doctors and our opinions are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post OptiMind Review: My Honest Thoughts, Experience, and More 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.

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.

We put Neurofuse to the test. Read below to see what each of our four testers thought about this broad-spectrium nootropic stack in our full Neurofuse review.

Neurofuse Ingredients

The Ingredients

Neurofuse comes in capsule form. There are 30 two-capsule servings per bottle.

• Vitamin D3, 667iu
  • Vitamin D3 is a fat-soluble vitamin many Westerners, especially adults, do not get enough of, making it one of our most common vitamin deficiencies. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to cardiovascular disease, mood disorders, and impaired cognition. This isn’t a massive amount of vitamin D by any means, but it’s a fairly common inclusion in many nootropic stacks and may aid the absorption of other ingredients in Neurofuse.
• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), 3.3mg
  • 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. Vitamin B6 may also increase the vividness of dreams and our ability to recall them.
• Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin), 33.3mcg
  • 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 memory tests.
• Neurofuse Blend – 903mg
  • There are no listed amounts for each individual component of the proprietary blend, but the ingredients are below.
• Rhodiola Rosea (3% Rosavins, 2% Salidrosides)
  • Rhodiola Rosea is a herb long used in holistic medicine as an anti-fatigue agent. It’s also linked to an increase in the brain’s ability to handle and process stress. This is a fairly common ingredient in many nootropics, and several of our testers find it effective for them. It’s also been linked to very few, if any, negative side effects in clinical and research studies.
• 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. This is a combo naturally present in green tea, which could account for that beverage’s calming effects.
• 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.
• Bacopa Monnieri P.E. 20%
  • Bacopa Monnieri is an adaptogenic herb used in Ayurveda as an antidepressant and a cognitive booster. While performing stressful cognitive tests, users taking Bacopa Monnieri experienced reduced stress and lowered cortisol (a stress hormone) levels.
• DMAE Bitartrate
  • DMAE Bitrate, or Deanol,  is a chemical that’s been 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.
• Phosphatidylserine 20%
  • Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid required to maintain healthy nerve cell membranes. It supports cognitive function and the ability to learn and recall new information.
• 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.
• Choline-Bitartrate
  • Choline-Bitartrate, a vitamin-like chemical, is thought to help enhance the levels of acetylcholine in the brain and body, one of the neurotransmitters involved in learning, and other cognitive processes. Some broad spectrum nootropic stacks include compounds involved in choline production without actually pairing them with a choline source; Neurofuse seems to have avoided that mistake.
• Vinpocetine
  • Vinpocetine is a chemical derived from the periwinkle plant, possibly linked to increased cerebral blood flow.
• Huperzine A
  • Huperzine A is a compound derived from Chinese club moss that has been used to improve cognitive performance in patients with Alzheimer’s.
• Other Ingredients: Brown Rice Flour, Magnesium Stearate, Titanium Dioxide, Gelatin

Usage Guidelines

For mental performance: Start with 1-2 capsules per day with food. Work up to 3-4 capsules depending on desired effect and tolerance.

Note: We had BrainWiz testers take between 1 and 4 capsules per day to test a broad range of dosages.

What Our Testers Say

“This supplement was great for me. I took this an hour before heading into the gym  in lieu of my caffeine-containing pre-workout drink, and it was very effective. I had great workouts, and both the energy and sharpened focused lasted well after my workout was over. I started with two capsules and worked my way up to four. That may be a pretty high dosage for simply being productive at work, but I noticed an effect on my workouts, definitely.”

“Neurofuse gave me a jolt of energy. I started with one pill, and although I felt focused and sharp, I also experienced some slight, very slight, jitteriness. The next time I took it, I didn’t experience the jitters, though I stayed at a pretty low dosage (never more than two capsules, most often just one was enough). I would love to see this product offered without the caffeine, since I did feel like it increased my ability to focus and get through an enormous opposition brief under a tight deadline. I will take Neurofuse again, but like I said, probably one capsule at a time.”

“I started out taking 1 capsule (I also drink coffee in the morning). It gave me a definite sharpness well into the afternoon during the workday. I worked up to three capsules. I didn’t experience the big energy wave like some of the other BrainWiz testers, but I felt sharp and like I was able to handle stress just a little bit better than normal. This was one of the first nootropic stacks I ever tested, and I keep coming back to it at least once a month.”

“I started with two capsules and worked my way up to four. I felt focused and energized, for the first four days, but they the effects seemed to diminish a little bit over time. I took 1 day off, and then went back to three then four pills with great results.”

BrainWiz Tips

• Neurofuse contains caffeine, and although the amount is not listed, it is enough to cause jitteriness in people with caffeine sensitivity, if taken alongside your morning coffee. Do as the manufacturer says and start slowly.
• In our review of Neurofuse, our testers preferred taking the nootropic stack in the morning or just after lunch to help fight the afternoon crash.
• Except for the occasional jitteriness, 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.

Neurofuse Summary

Neurofuse is a broad-spectrium nootropic stack featuring a number of powerful, popular ingredients, including caffeine, in a convenient delivery system. It turned out to be a favorite among our testers, who all felt a cognitive boost.

In addition to a mental boost, some of our testers feel increased physical energy and stamina; at least one of our testers found it most effective to take pre-workout. Though its perceived effects seemed to diminish very slightly over time, taking a break from the supplement for a day or two seems to be enough time for Neurofuse’s effectiveness to return.

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