Nootropics are safe brain-boosting supplements when used in moderation along with the awareness of potential side-effects and how to avoid them. Sourcing safe and effective brain supplements involves researching products with a minimum effective dosage and formulations that avoid excessive levels of addictive stimulants. Everyone has a unique brain chemistry, so do the necessary homework to find the best nootropic for you.

What are the Nootropics? What are they designed for? 

Also known as ‘smart drugs’, nootropics are designed for increased mental performance by enhancing focus on tasks, improving the process of learning and retention, and elevating alert levels.

The following substances are commonly referred to as expert-formulated nootropic supplements that support better focus, mood, energy, and general productivity.

• Caffeine is the most common nootropic to improve alertness and attention.
• Creatine is an amino acid that helps with reasoning, short-term memory, and eases symptoms of stress.
• Another amino acid, L-Theanine, enhances tranquillity while increasing creativity. 
• Botanical extracts like Ginkgo Biloba, Panax Ginseng, and Rhodiola Rosea have been used for centuries to alleviate stress, enhance brain functions, improve memory, and reduce mental fatigue.
• Bacopa Monnieri is a herb used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to improve memory and mental processing if taken over several months.
• Fish oils contain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which are rich sources for maintaining brain health and prevention in mental decline.
• Prescription drugs, such as Ritalin and Adderall are usually recommended by physicians to treat conditions like ADHD. However, serious side-effects have been reported, so these medications can only be used under medical direction.

Nootropic supplements can be taken individually or as part of a stack supplement, which means several nootropics are combined to work on one or more areas of cognitive function.

Nootropic Myths

Myth: Nootropics provide superhuman mental ability and increase IQ.

There is no product on the market today that offers extraordinary super brain powers or that increases intelligence. It can however help you study with better focus and content retention.

Myth: The right nootropic is the shortcut to success.

Nootropics are nutritional supplements for cognitive health and cannot replace any aspect of your lifestyle or personality, which includes healthy habits, hard work, and ambition.

What are the regulated and unregulated Nootropics? What is the main difference?

Generally, nootropics can be categorized into synthetic compounds, dietary supplements, and prescription drugs.

Prescription medications are regulated through legal requirements for sufficient clinical trials, and standards of safety, purity, and effectiveness at recommended doses. So, prescribed nootropics for conditions like ADHD or Alzheimer’s that medical practitioners rely on to manage health conditions have to be regulated.

In contrast, unregulated synthetic and dietary supplement nootropics do not undergo the same clinical evaluation, but they may not contain illegal substances nor can they claim to cure or medically treat conditions. Unregulated products will typically come with labels to indicate the product ‘may help with’, or ‘be a health aid’ for general health complaints.

What are the main benefits Nootropics provide you with?

Nootropics taken alone or as a stack supplement can offer a variety of benefits. But different ingredients and combinations can provide different results for different individuals. Armed with research, preferably with nutritional and medical guidance, you should start with small dosages and mindfully monitor results to avoid any uncomfortable side-effects.

Using a quality supplement over a period of time should start producing the desired effects of improved cognitive processes and mental anti-aging support that have little or no side-effects at all. Depending on the type of nootropic taken, these are the most common benefits to expect:

• Improved memory and focus.
• Enhanced energy levels and mood.
• Better reasoning ability.
• Increased creativity.

Best Conditions for Best Brain Health

A nootropic is not a magic pill for optimal brain function and health. For best results, nootropics should be taken in conjunction with sufficient sleep, a nutritious and well-balanced diet, and regular exercise. A healthy lifestyle has a significant impact on improving overall health and reducing cognitive decline associated with age.

Contraindications

There are some cases when taking nootropics is not advised for general health safety. Avoid taking nootropics if any of the following conditions apply:

• Pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
• Under 18 years old.
• Suffer from a serious medical condition or require surgery in the near future.
• Currently taking brain-related or other medications that could cause negative interactions.

Where is it better to buy Nootropics? Are there any general guidelines on how to pick the supplier?

Nootropic supplements are sold over the counter at pharmacies, retail outlets, and through online retail stores. These supplements are regarded as safe until proven otherwise. This one of the primary reasons to do research through regulatory bodies and respected forums to read reviews and identify products that are reported as questionable or unsafe.

Legal, safe ingredients and reputable brands play an important role in determining whether a nootropic is suitable. Eliminate risks by choosing a high-quality nootropic supplement and use them wisely. Listen to your body and if you feel unwanted effects or do not feel any positive effects after a few months, it is advisable to stop taking them.

Be Smart to Be Safe

Consider the following points when looking for a safe single or stacked nootropic product:

• They should not require mega dosing as it can increase risk without benefit.
• Avoid supplements containing artificial colors and preservatives that can upset the gastrointestinal tract and trigger inflammation.
• Soy and gluten ingredients are not desirable as they have been linked to hormonal and digestive health problems.
• Choose supplements that are free from common allergens, such as nuts, dairy, and shellfish.

Finally, consult with your doctor before you start your nootropic journey and always follow the manufacturer's directions.