Believe it or not, nootropics have actually been around since 1972. But it’s only within the last few years that the mainstream of our culture even heard of the word “nootropic”, much less started considering that there might be ways to supplement brain function beyond the wonders of caffeine.
Out of the hundreds (if not thousands) of available nootropics in the market today, very few have as strong of a following as Alpha Brain, manufactured by Onnit. Alpha Brain has a slew of legitimate and enthusiastic celebrity endorsements, including TV personality and talk show host Joe Rogan. Alpha Brain enthusiasts have a passionate presence on social media. And Onnit insists there is legit scientific proof behind their formula. But is it too good to be true? Our review took an in-depth look at Alpha Brain to see what all the hype was about.
What Is Alpha Brain?
On the website, Onnit describes Alpha Brain as a nootropic supplement designed to “help healthy individuals support memory, focus and processing speed”. This supplement comes in capsule form, and is meant to be taken during the day with a light meal. Interestingly enough, you may also take it at night to enhance REM sleep and potentially promote the frequency and intensity of lucid dreams.
Alpha Brain Ingredients
Right on the front page, Onnit boasts that its Alpha Brain formula is Non-GMO, caffeine free, and also gluten free. It is manufactured with “earth-grown nutrients” such as cat’s claw, which grows in the Amazon rainforest. There’s also bacopa monnieri, an Indian herb believed to support cognitive health.
*All individuals are unique. Your results can and will vary.
The two most important ingredients, as far as cognition enhancement is concerned, are huperzia serrata and Alpha GPC. The Alpha GPC is a phospholipid derivative which, when taken regularly, could potentially help your body synthesize more acetylcholine. Huperzia serrata contains an enzyme which inhibits the body’s ability to break down acetylcholine. These are important because acetylcholine is a very potent neurotransmitter. And the more acetylcholine you have in the brain, the better your neurons can work, thus enhancing brain function.
Reviews about Alpha Brain
As far as reviews go, the people who like Alpha Brain really like Alpha Brain. Fans of the product have a borderline cult-like enthusiasm for this particular supplement. Of those who tried Alpha Brain and gave it a negative review, the biggest complaint was that “you can get the same or better results from (insert similar product here) for a fraction of the cost”.
*All individuals are unique. Your results can and will vary.
How Well Does Alpha Brain Actually Work?
Based on the positive reviews and actual clinical studies backing up some of Onnit’s claims, it seems as though Alpha Brain could be a legitimately beneficial nootropic. However, the high price might be prohibitive for some people.
Additionally, there are concerns that Alpha Brain might gradually decrease your body’s ability to synthesize acetylcholine on its own, eventually becoming dependent upon Alpha Brain for even normal acetylcholine synthesis. Until more studies are done, it’s hard to say whether this supplement is safe for long-term use.
For a more affordable and less dangerous option, click here for our top picks.
