5 ways to hyper-charge your brain power

All-natural smart drugs and the 5 ways to hyper-charge your brain power. Interest piqued? Read on…

Synthetic smart drugs could be harmful to your brain in the long run, but the good news is that you don’t actually need them – even if you are looking for that edge. ‘Herbal and vitamin compounds are the new smart drugs,’ says Gerry Morton, CEO of EnergyFirst. ‘They work better, are just as powerful and do all kinds of healthy things for your body.’ Here he lists five of the best herbs and supplements with strong nootropic properties. Prepare yourself for fast-firing synapses in three, two, one…

Adapt with acetyl-L-carnitine

Acetyl-L-carnitine is a biologically active form of the amino acid L-carnitine and it is a powerful adaptogen, which helps the body adapt to stress. Like all adaptogenic herbs, carnitine works to reduce brain-killing stress and enhance cognitive function at the same time. Overall, carnitine is an amazing compound; a wonder anti-depressant and brain booster that enhances mental clarity, processing speed, focus, and memory.

Carnitine enhances brain function through two things. Firstly, it works synergistically with coenzyme Q10 and alpha lipoic acid to maintain and protect the function of the mitochondria in the brain and, secondly, it creates acetylcholine, the primary neurotransmitter required for learning and memory function. Since acetyl-L-carnitine is found exclusively in red meat, vegetarians should definitely consider this supplement.

Go for ginkgo biloba

Although many people have already heard about Ginko biloba, many do not know the great extent to which this herb can boost brain power. There is strong evidence that this herb enhances brain function in all kinds of ways. It improves learning ability, attention span, focus and memory. It works through flavonoid glycosides and terpenoids that are now becoming renowned for improving memory, cognition and concentration.

Try creatine

Creatine is a type of amino acid often used by bodybuilders and athletes to increase lean muscle mass and enhance physical performance. Like acetyl-L-carnitine, creatine is found primarily in red meat. A recent study found that creatine increased mental performance, memory and processing speed in vegetarians and vegans. Creatine is getting a lot of attention right now as the ultimate smart drug, as research is proving its powers for enhancing overall brain function.

Achieve balance with rhodiola 

Also known as ‘Plateau Ginseng’ and the ‘Rose of Heaven’, rhodiola is is considered a three-treasure tonic because it enhances Jing (the vital force within), Chi (our essence) and Shen (the spirit). Scientifically, rhodiola is a very effective adaptogenic herb that improves cognitive function, memory, and smarts overall. The coolest thing about this brain booster, though, is that unlike synthetic smart drugs, it boosts both creativity and cognition (most smart drugs are thought to dim creativity).

Drink green tea 

Green tea is rich in two compounds that both boost brain function: L-Theanine and EGCG. Together, these two compounds work to enhance  serotonin, gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) and dopamine levels, ultimately improving mood, motivation, recall and the ability to learn. EGCG is an amazing compound that does all kinds of things to enhance brain function. The EGCG works synergistically with caffeine and l-theanine to improve memory, attention span, recall, and overall cognitive functioning. Over and over, studies have proven that supplementing with green tea enhances energy, cognition and overall mental performance.

If you would like to supplement with all of these herbs and compounds without having a cabinet full of bottles and teas, the easiest way to get all of them is with a green drink powder, like a green smoothie or shake powder. Most of these contain smart drug herbs and compounds like crazy.

About the author:

Gerry Morton is the CEO of EnergyFirst, holds an MS in Nutrition and is an experienced athlete who has competed in more than 30 marathons and four Ironman triathlons. Gerry is an excellent source of information on nutrition, supplementation and exercise. Energyfirst.com is known for offering the world’s best tasting, highest quality, all natural, premium nutrition products such as pure whey protein isolate powder, energy bar and green drinks. Read his blog at blog.energyfirst.com.