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.

MCT/medium chain triglyceride oil has come to prominence in recent years largely because of the exploding popularity of Bulletproof Coffee, and the sustained energy many users claims it gives them. Brain Awake also contains caffeine, and we wondered if the ingredient list would give a Bulletproof Coffee-like experience. We had our testers try Brain Awake to see if it gave a similar boost. Read below to see what we found out.

Brain Awake By Irwin Naturals Label & Ingredients

The Ingredients

• 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.
• Vitamin B12 – 500 mcg
  • An essential vitamin B nutrient, B12 plays an important role in numerous bodily functions, including neurological function and development.
• Folate (as Quatrefolic) – 200 mcg
  • Another B vitamin linked to brain health and function.
• MCT (medium chain triglyceride) oil – 1000 mg
  • Medium chain triglycerides, normally in the form of refined coconut oils, have become very popular in recent years for numerous health benefits. They’re a primary ingredient in Bulletproof Coffee, and Bulletproof/Upgraded self claims they provide sustained energy to the brain without the crash of stimulants. Research indicates MCT oil creates more ketone bodies when metabolized than most other fats, and these ketone bodies can be quickly utilized by the brain for energy. Their consumption in place of other calories sources has also been linked to increase fat loss.
• 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.
• Bacopa extract (50% bacosides)(whole plant) – 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. This is actually the highest concentration of bacosides in the extract we’ve seen in a nootropic product.
• Holy Basil extract (2% ursolic acid) (leaf) – 200 mg
  • A noted adaptogen, Holy Basil extract helps reduce the negative effects of stress. Ursolic acid is one of several active compounds in Holy Basil, with others including ocimarin and the ocimumosides, two substances linked to adaptogenic effects. Note: In high dosages, research indicated 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 one out given its potential side effects. We didn’t formulate this supplement, but generally our testers prefer adaptogens like Rhodiola rosea.
• AlphaWave L-Theanine – 100 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.
• InnovaTea Natural tea Extract (standardized to 95% caffeine) – 52 mg
  • 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.
• Lemon Balm Extract – 30 mg
  • Also referred to as Melissa officinalis, lemon balm extract is linked to inducing calmness and boosting cognition, especially in stressful situations.
• Rosemary extract (3% rosmarinic acid) – 6 mg
  • The active compound in rosemary is Rosmarinic acid, a noted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
• Bioperine Complex – 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: Flaxseed oil, gelatin, purified water, glycerin, beeswax, soy lecithin, St. John’s bread, silicon dioxide and titanium dioxide.

Usage Guidelines

Take three liquid soft-gels daily with a meal and a full glass of water. If caffeine keeps you up at night, do not take this product in the evening since it contains natural caffeine. 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.

What Our Testers Say

“I think the MCT oil gave me a physical boost as well as a mental boost, maybe even more of a physical kick. I felt the energy, but I think it was a shade less than I’ve had when drinking coffee with grassfed butter and MCT oil in the morning.”

“I cycle off and on Bulletproof Coffee, and I was hoping this would give me a similar kick. It did, but in a milder form. Also, one of the capsules must have popped during shipping, because when I opened my bottle everything was covered in a slimy brown film, and it made it difficult to swallow the pills. I’ll probably stick to Bulletproof Coffee if I want sustained energy for a long day or need to go longer than normal between meals.”

“This one caused some nausea for me (I usually take my supplements in the morning on an empty stomach and eat once I get to work). I wasn’t expecting this; I normally have an iron stomach. It gave me more energy throughout the day, but it’s a serving I’d have to time better in the future and plan my morning around.”

“I enjoyed the energy from this supplement, paired with a light breakfast, I felt like I could go until the late afternoon without needing a significant food break. I felt clear headed throughout that time, though I don’t think I was tons more productive than normal.”

BrainWiz Tips

• Take with a full glass of water and/or meal to avoid any stomach cramps; this is often true of MCT or fish oil-containing supplements.
• People have varying sensitivity to MCT oil; if you’ve never tried it before, it might be best to start with a smaller dosage to gauge your digestive system’s response.
• As with any supplement regime, it’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes. This supplement contains an ingredient that’s been associated with reduced sperm fertility in males.

Supplement Summary

Brain Awake did have a similar effect to Bulletproof Coffee, but it wasn’t quite as pronounced, and the focus our testers felt wasn’t nearly as sharp as other supplements in recent memory. We’d suggest gauging your tolerance for MCT oil carefully from the start to avoid digestive issues. The inclusion of Holy Basil extract as the adaptogen of choice also has us scratching our heads a little bit, as there are similarly effective choices in existence without the same potential side effects.

If you like the effects of Bulletproof Coffee but aren’t a coffee drinker, Brain Awake is a zero-prep-required substitute. Overall, our testers reached for other supplements after their trial of Brain Awake was over.

The post Bulletproof Coffee’s Effect In A Pill? Reviewing Brain Awake By Irwin Naturals appeared first on Brain Wiz.