In the previous section, we have completed a basic information package on creating and improving memory. It's time to take on another important topic, or how to improve your concentration. Better ability to focus is the goal of most people who decide to include supplements with nootropic properties. Let's look at the supplements that can help our concentration.
Caffeine
The main active ingredient in coffee, and the most popular stimulant in the world. Every day, the brains of countless people light up. The aroma of coffee is loved by many, but there are also people who do not like it or complain of gastric complaints after drinking coffee. An interesting alternative in such situations is a supplement with pure caffeine.
The mechanism of caffeine's action is multifaceted. The foundation, however, is the effect on adenosine receptors. Adenosine has nervous system inhibitory properties. Interestingly, caffeine has a structure similar to adenosine, thanks to which it can connect with its receptors. However, unlike her, it does not inhibit the nervous system, and it simply takes these receptors. It causes that adenosine cannot join the occupied receptor, and we do not feel tired. This phenomenon is called competitive antagonism.
Caffeine also works on the increased norepinephrine discharge, which puts us in standby mode. Thanks to this, we feel the flow of energy. It also influences the dopaminergic system in some way, which brightens the mind and adds motivation. Caffeine is undoubtedly a good choice when you want to focus better on your job. It triggers psychostimulation, improves reaction time and well-being. It’s most often used in single doses of 200 mg.
Theanine
Theanine is one of the basic nootropic agents. In itself, it gives a calming, relaxing effect, which is why it’s not possible for everyone to improve the efficiency of work by using it. The situation is changing dramatically when we combine this amino acid with caffeine. Many people are surprised at the news that they should combine a stimulant with a calming effect. This is ruled out! Well, not in this case. These two substances, instead of eliminating their effect, only limit these negative effects, with positive ones being improved. This was checked in a study using 150 mg of caffeine, 250 mg of theanine or a combination of both. The results indicate that the combination of caffeine and theanine gives a better ability to process information and improves reaction time. Undoubtedly, it’s an effective and most importantly safe stack, which can reach practically anyone who would like to improve the operation of coffee or caffeine.
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine (NALT)
Tyrosine is a precursor to the construction of several important neurotransmitters - adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine. Each of them is responsible for stimulation, energy and motivation. In the study of people who underwent sleep deprivation, and more specifically those working night shifts, during at least a 24-hour period without sleep, the use of tyrosine allowed to limit the decline in mental performance during psychomotor tasks. Tyrosine is particularly useful when we often use various types of stimulants (also caffeine), because the increased use of catecholamines may exhaust their potency in neurons, and their replenishment goes more efficiently when we supply more precursor. L-Tyrosine requires high doses, as can be seen in the above-mentioned study, as 150 mg per kilogram body weight was used. NALT is a more efficient product and can the dose can be significantly reduced. Effective doses can range from 1-2 g and that is what’s worth taking. A good choice is taking it on an empty stomach to avoid competition with other amino acids by transporters supplying tyrosine to the brain.
Brain Fuel v2
This product combines two of the aforementioned ingredients, i.e. caffeine and NALT. In addition, it’s extended by two measures with an extremely high nootropic potential, as the only one on the market! Sunifiram and coluracetam combined effectively brighten the thinking process, improve perception and improve data processing, further improving the efficiency of memory formation. The simultaneous effect on the functioning of glutamatergic and cholinergic systems noticeably increases mental performance. A great choice for people who do not feel like taking multiple capsules with each ingredient separately or what is worse, measuring powders.
Game Over
Caffeine, theanine, sunifiram and alpha GPC, or stack created for computer players. It aims to improve reaction time, efficiency of information processing and cool analysis. It also works great at work, in situations where we need multitasking, especially when we also need improved resistance to stress.
MAN Brain Bridge
A very comprehensive formula, containing many effective ingredients in well-chosen doses. In it, we can find caffeine, theacrine, theanine, NALT and phenylalanine, which gives a very good, stimulating combo. Alpha GPC together with Hupercin and ALCAR strongly support the cholinergic system. Very interesting is the combination of Sceletium Tortuosum with forskolin, which raises cAMP levels in neurons and improves mood. We also have typical nootropics like phosphatidylserine or Bacopa Monnieri. Lutein and zeaxanthin are to additionally support the quality of vision. High synergy takes place between the components of this complex, which effectively affects the focus, energy level and overall cognitive performance.
Nootropics for concentration - summary
In summary, using appropriate supplementation, we can increase work efficiency, improve concentration and increase energy and motivation levels. There are numerous synergistic reactions between the various substances, which is also used by the manufacturers of dietary supplements when creating complex formulas. It's worth experimenting to determine what products best meet our expectations.