Nootropics

Nootropics are "smart drugs". This means that they improve at least one aspect of cognitive function. Sometimes they improve memory, sometimes intelligence, sometimes focus, and sometimes all three.

If you have never used nootropics, or read about them, I am sure you are already very skeptical. Skepticism isn't a bad thing. When it comes to taking any drug that effects the way your brain works it is important to know everything there is to know before using.

How Do Nootropics Work?

Every nootropic works differently. I could never explain to you how all of them work, it would be impossible. However, I can generalize some of their mechanisms.

1. Most nootropics effect one or more neurotransmitters.

Neurotransmitters are what your brain cells use to communicate with one another. For example, when you win a game or accomplish something meaningful you feel really good. Have you ever thought about what is happening in your brain when that wonderful feeling washes over you?

Your brain cells are releasing serotonin and dopamine into your synapse. Serotonin and dopamine are neurotransmitters involved in the pleasure and reward system in your brain. In other words, when your brain cells release these neurotransmitters into your synapse, you feel really good. That is exactly why extacy is such a popular drug. Extacy tells your brain cells to dump as much of these neurotransmitters into your synapse as humanly possible.

There are also neurotransmitters that play a role in memory formation, problem solving, and focus. Theoretically, if you could manipulate the levels of and functionality of there neurotransmitters you could improve many areas of cognitive function. That is exactly what nootropics do.

2. Some nootropics cause more blood to reach your brain.

Your brain needs blood. It uses blood first and foremost to keep you alive. After that, it uses leftover blood to help with higher cognitive functions. The more blood you can get to your brain, the better your memory, intelligence, and focus will be.

There are other ways to get more blood to your brain. Regular exercise allows more blood to reach your brain. Eating fatty foods takes blood away from your brain. If you combine regular exercise and a lot fat diet with certain nootropics, it will make a huge difference. You will feel sharper and more clear.

There are scientific studies that back these claims up. Different nootropics effect different neurotransmitters, and science has proven it.

Why Are People So Skeptical?

My theory as to why people are so skeptical is pretty simple. It is the same reason I was skeptical when I first heard about nootropics. I thought to myself,

"If nootropics really work, then why isn't everyone taking them, and why haven't I heard of them. I haven't even seen a commercial for these. Why aren't they approved by the FDA?"

Well, I found out pretty quickly that most aren't approved by the FDA because the FDA only approves supplements which treat a specific disease or condition. Being dumb isn't a disease, therefore the FDA won't even look at most nootropics. That being said, some nootropics are prescribed in Europe to treat various cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer's. They make people with Alzheimer's much smarter, they make healthy people a little smarter.

I thought that was interesting, but it still didn't answer my first question. Why isn't everyone taking them? The short answer is that everyone is. The most common nootropic that you have definitely heard of is caffeine. Caffeine improves focus and working memory. Millions and millions of people all over the world take caffeine to help them get through the work day.

Does this mean coffee is the best nootropic out there? Definitely not. In fact, I would consider it in the middle of the pack. Another nootropic you may have heard of is adderall. Adderall grants you intense focus and also improves your working memory. Adderall is one of the most potent nootropics I have ever taken. Problem is, you need a prescription and can get in a lot of trouble if you don't have one. Many people also get addicted to it since it acts as a stimulant.

Some nootropics you haven't heard of are piracetam, aniracetam, oxiracetan, and pramiracetam. These nootropics are non-toxic, non-addictive, and the stronger ones are on the same level as adderall. Not only do they give you focus and improve your memory/intelligence, but they help prevent Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Think of them as vitamins for your brain.

Will nootropics turn you into a genius? Certainly not. But they will help you do better in school and at work. It is important to do the proper research before you venture into the exciting world of nootropics. Visit www.whatarenootropics.com to learn more about nootropics and how they can help you.