What Are Nootropics?
From college students taking stimulants to get an edge, busy mums using herbs to support memory function to silicon valley executives microdosing to boost creative thinking, it seems cognitive enhancers are becoming more and more appealing to those from different walks of life. A “smart drug” is loosely used to describe any substance natural or pharmaceutical that enhances cognitive performance, memory, mood, concentration or focus. A nootropic is technically a substance with the same properties that also has a protective effect on the brain or body. Nootrpoics must be nontoxic and are generally non-synthetic or natural substances. Many people are turning to these substances to boost performance, however its important to understand what these compounds are and how to use them safety and effectively.
According to the medical definition, a substance meet the following criteria to be regarded as a nootropic:
Enhance learning and memory
Protect the brain from physical or chemical induced damage
Exhibit few side effects and have extremely low toxicity
Has no effects on blood pressure or heart rate
Can pass through the blood brain barrier
Increase brain metabolism
Have been proven in clinical studies to enhance brain function
Thus all nootropics are smart drugs but not all smart drugs can meet the criteria to be called a nootropic. An example is the ADHD medication Ritalin (Methylphenidate). Ritalin is known to improve focus and concentration, making it a smart drug, but is known to be relatively toxic and cause side effects such as high blood pressure and heart rate so cannot be regarded as a nootropic.
At N=1 we are big fans of using nootropics appropriately. Nootropics are the icing on the cake, when all underlying causes of brain fog, low mood or poor concentration have first been addressed. Nootropics can give us an edge but its important to do the foundational work first.
When our friends and clients come to us with concerns about brain fog or low mood, we first need to work to address factors such as:
Poor gut health. Intestinal inflammation directly causes neuroinflammation (brain inflammation) which often underlies cognitive concerns.
Stress hormone balance and circadian rhythms. High cortisol or adrenaline over time shuts down memory function and zaps creative thinking
Sex hormone deficiencies. Low estrogen and testosterone affect brain function and memory.
Nutrient insufficiency. Lack of nutrients involved in neurotransmitter synthesis zap focus, mood and concentration
Poor Sleep. One night of poor sleep can result in 30% decrease in working memory. Chronic poor sleep has been shown to result in smaller brain volume.
Thyroid function. Hypothyroid can result in brain fog, while hyperthyroidism results in excessive anxiety and lack of focus
Mitochondrial energy production. The brain consists of only 5% of the body’s weight but demands 20% of our body’s energy. When our cell’s ability to produce energy decreases, often brain function (and cardiovascular system) are the first to show effects.
Toxic exposures. Heavy metals, mould and aromatic hydrocarbons wreak havoc on brain health
Lifestyle factors such as processed and inflammatory foods, alcohol and other recreation substance intake
In my experience taking the time to clean up the body and investigate any underlying causes of brain fog prior to purchasing that 100$ bottle of Qualia will not only save you money, but ensure you have the best possible response to the product in question.
My favourite aspect of using nootropics is the ability to fine tune and tailor your “stack”. Nootropics are generally combined in synergistic formula’s. One of my favourite examples is the combination of Uridine Monophosphate, Lions Mane, Bacopa and a big dose of activated or phosphorylated B vitamins. This super charges my focus and helps me stay on task longer without “reaching for something”. I find the addition of the UMP with its ability to sensitise dopamine receptors also helps my drive and ability to reach goals.
Our approach at N=1 is a focus on personalised and individualised treatments and recommendation. No two people are alike and this becomes very obvious when we start experimenting with nootropics and smart drugs. Many biohackers for instance swear by the Narcolepsy medication Modafinil. I find it makes me feel aggressive and irritated and less likely to be able to sit down and work. Interestingly after examining my genetic polymorphisms (or variations of the same genes we all share), I found it could be due to my slow genetic ability to clear dopamine and a bit of overstimulation with the drug. This is why at N=1 we insist on completing some functional testing as well as looking at a genetic test such as Selfdecode, 23&me or NutrionGenome. This helps us understand ahead of time which nootropics may suit you best an avoid uncomfortable self experimentation.
After we have completed an appropriate assessment of any potential underlying causes of decreased cognitive function we then suggest various classes of evidenced based nootropics based on your goals. We work with a lab in Canada to then formulate your custom stack and use biometric data and cognitive testing to monitor responses. This gives us an objective assessment of how well your personalised supplement is working for you.
If you are interested in personalized supplements, nootropics, smart drugs or simply wish to understand more about how we work, I invite you to book your complimentary Biohacker Discovery Call today. Prior to the call we will send you a short Biohacker Goals Assessment, and during the visit we will discuss how we can help you optimize your health and become the very best version of yourself.
Photo by madison lavern on Unsplash