Hey there!
Welcome to my head-to-head comparison of Alpha GPC vs. Citicoline, 2 of the most crucial nootropics on the market today.
Whether you’re new to nootropics or a seasoned brain hacker, choline from either of these sources should no doubt be a part of your daily regimen.
Like you, I also wondered about the differences between these acetylcholine precursors, so I spent over 20 hours researching and testing various products to understand them better.
The following article dives into everything you need to know about Alpha GPC and Citicoline to help you better decide which is best for you, including what each is, the benefits of each, the difference between them, and where to buy them.
So if you’re ready to learn more about Citicoline vs Alpha GPC choline nootropics, let’s jump into it!
Biohack Your Brainpower
Where To Buy Alpha GPC and CDP Choline (Citicoline)
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CDP-Choline Nootropic Stack
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Alpha GPC Nootropic Stack
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Mind Lab Pro |
NooCube |
Alpha Brain by Onnit |
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11 nootropics working together in 6 bio-pathways |
Noocube is a powerful blend of herbs and amino acids that can help boost your cognitive abilities. With its memory-boosting and productivity-enhancing qualities, it’s ideal for students, working professionals, and even seniors. Plus, with 11 scientific studies to back its ingredients, Noocube stacks up well against super popular brands – without the caffeine! |
Unlock your optimum cognitive potential with Alpha Brain – a natural supplement designed to help you think faster and increase productivity. Get ahead of the game today! |
Alpha GPC
- Works in Parasympathetic Nervous System
- Anti Neuroinflammatory
- More easily crosses Blood Brain Barrier
- Better for Dopamine, Serotonin Production
- Highly Neuroprotective
- May be better for longevity
CDP-Choline
- Works in Sympathetic Nervous System
- Anti-inflammatory (in body)
- Boosts endogenous phosphatidylcholine status
- Increase dopamine and noradrenaline levels in the CNS
- May be better for attention and brain energy
What Is Alpha GPC
Alpha-glycerophosphocholine is a nutritional supplement used to enhance cognition.
The compound is given as a prescription drug in some areas (such as Europe) but is mainly used as dietary supplements.
Alpha-GPC is known for curing reduced brain blood flow in vascular dementia patients.
It is also beneficial for patients with cerebrovascular diseases (Alzheimer’s disease) and brain injury patients (stroke patients). Research demonstrates Alpha-GPC’s ability to slow disease progression (Alzheimer’s disease and neurodegenerative diseases) and preventing overall cognitive decline.1Philip A. DeFina et al, Alzheimer’s Disease Clinical and Research Update for Health Care PractitionersJournal of Aging Research, vol. 2013
These dietary supplements are also frequently used by athletes for enhanced memory and increased brain output.
What Is CDP Choline (Cytidine Diphosphate Choline)
More commonly known as citicoline, CDP choline (Cytidine Diphosphate Choline) is a nootropic supplement, and like all nootropic supplements, it enhances brain function and rejuvenates the brain cells.
CDP choline’s mechanisms of action are diverse and is recommended as an ideal supplement for brain health.
It is typically given to patients on professional medical advice to help correct memory loss due to aging and prevent cognitive decline.
It is also used to treat Parkinson’s disease and bipolar disorder.
Oral citicoline can pass the blood-brain barrier and impact the central nervous system as it leads to elevated plasma levels of choline and uridine. 2Richard JWurtman et al, Effect of oral CDP-choline on plasma choline and uridine levels in humansBiochemical Pharmacology. 2000
Best Source Of Alpha GPC
NooCube
Improves oxygenation, nutrient absorption and stimulate neurotransmitter production for better cognitive function
Stimulates the production of neurotransmitters
Supports increases in concentration, learning, short-term memory, and problem-solving
Reduce age-related cognitive decline while improving overall mental performance
NooCube is a revolutionary dietary supplement that provides cognitive benefits to help people with their everyday tasks.
It contains a unique blend of natural ingredients such as Lutemax, Bacopa monnieri, Huperzia Serrata, Pterostilbene, Resveratrol, L-theanine, L-tyrosine, Alpha GPC, Oat straw extract, Cat’s claw, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B7, and Vitamin B12.
Lutemax is derived from lutein and zeaxanthin and helps support optimal health by helping the body absorb light better. Bacopa monnieri helps boost memory and concentration by supporting neurotransmitters in the brain.
Huperzia Serrata boosts mental clarity by making it easier for your brain to process information quickly and accurately. Pterostilbene helps preserve healthy brain cells, while Resveratrol promotes overall brain health.
L-theanine works in combination with caffeine to provide more focused alertness without the jittery side effects generally associated with the caffeine alone.
L-Tyrosine aids in reducing mental fatigue, while alpha GPC helps improve memory formation after exercise or physical stress. Oat straw extract helps increase mental energy levels while cat’s claw supports cognitive function through its anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamins B1 (thiamin), B7 (biotin), and B12 (cobalamin) support healthy nervous system functioning crucial for all aspects of neural communication within the brain.
NooCube combines this unique blend of natural ingredients to create an effective solution for people looking to boost their focus and concentration when performing daily tasks or studying for exams or projects.
By providing improved cognitive abilities without the dangerous side effects of other prescription drugs, NooCube is an easy alternative for anyone looking to get ahead in life without risking their long-term health or productivity levels.
As someone who has used NooCube regularly, I can confidently say that it has made an incredible difference in my day-to-day life since taking it regularly over the past few months.
The combination of natural ingredients has allowed me to focus on my tasks throughout the day while providing increased energy levels so I can stay productive longer into the night if needed.
Overall I think NooCube is one of the best supplements out there right now – allowing people to boost their cognitive abilities safely and naturally – which is why I highly recommend it.
Pros
- Preformulated for easy access to essential nootropics
- Best value for nootropic cognitive enhancement
- All-natural ingredients with no fillers/preservatives
- Includes B-vitamins for enhanced metabolism
Cons
- Some ingredients may be underdosed for specific nootropic therapy
Alpha Brain by Onnit
Alpha Brain delivers a blend of potent nootropics that promote alpha brain waves and improved cognitive function
The formula includes L-Theanine, phosphatidylserine, L-tyrosine, cats claw, be it in a propriety form
There are no artificial additives, flavors, sweeteners, colors, caffeine, dairy or gluten in the product
Keto and paleo diet friendly
Alpha Brain is a nootropic supplement created by Joe Rogan’s well-known supplement company Onnit. As such, its probably the most hyped, most heavily marketed nootropic stack on the planet.
We like Alpha Brain because not only does it provide natural ingredients to help boost cognitive enhancement but it also offers many other benefits such as improved brain energy levels and enhanced concentration skills; plus its easy-to-take capsules make taking it on a daily basis simple! On the other hand, some people may not be fans of Alpha Brain due to its proprietary blends since those looking for full transparency may not be satisfied with what they see on the label.
I personally have tried out Alpha Brain and noticed huge improvements in my focus levels after a few weeks of consistent usage; this allowed me to power through difficult tasks with much more ease than before taking it.
Alpha Brain was designed to enhance cognitive functions, such as focus, concentration, and memory. It contains various natural ingredients that have been carefully selected in order to give the optimal boost for peak mental performance.
The primary ingredient in Alpha Brain is Alpha GPC or Alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine. This is a choline-enhancing compound that helps to replenish the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which aids in memory formation and recall. Another beneficial ingredient is Huperzia Serrata, an extract from Chinese club moss which has been used for centuries for its cognitive-enhancing properties.
Bacopa Monnieri, another key ingredient found in Alpha Brain, has been clinically proven to improve memory retention and comprehension. L-Theanine and L-Tyrosine are amino acids that help increase alertness and reduce stress.
Oat Straw Extract, Phosphatidylserine, Cat’s Claw Extract (AC-11), Pterostilbene, and L-Leucine are all additional ingredients found in Alpha Brain that aid in improving mental clarity and focus while maintaining overall brain health.
Finally, Vitamin B6 promotes energy production throughout the body while helping to prevent fatigue caused by extended periods of concentration or mental strain.
It is recommended to take two capsules of Alpha Brain daily after a light meal for optimal results.
However, it can take up to several weeks before you begin feeling any noticeable effects depending on your individual circumstances so patience is key when trying this supplement out for the first time.
Best Citicoline
Mind Lab Pro
Designed to optimize cognitive functions through 11 natural ingredients that work in 6 bio-pathways
Boosts serotonin levels which can help improve your mood, sleep quality, appetite control, stress management,
Mind Lab Pro helps improve focus, memory, clarity, energy levels without relying on stimulants or artificial additives
Contains premium forms of each ingredient for enhanced potency and activity, while avoiding potential side effects associated with lower quality ingredients
Mind Lab Pro aims to provide an all-in-one solution for improving mental health & performance without any harsh side effects like those associated with prescription medications or other supplements on the market today.
It contains 11 clinically studied ingredients that work synergistically to improve focus, memory, clarity, and energy levels. For example, Rhodiola Rosea helps reduce fatigue, while Citicoline increases alertness and concentration. Phosphatidylserine helps protect neurons from damage, while L-Theanine helps reduce stress and anxiety.
In addition to these ingredients, Mind Lab Pro also contains Lion’s Mane Mushroom, which has been shown to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). These proteins are important for developing new neurons in the brain and releasing neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which can help improve mood and focus.
Mind Lab Pro has been developed to affect the following six key bio-pathways:
- Neuro-Energy Metabolism
- Antioxidant Enhancements
- Neurotransmitter Support
- Neural Structures Protection
- Stress/Anxiety Resistance
- Brain Circulation/Oxygenation
The recommended dosage is two capsules daily in the morning or early afternoon. You can safely increase your dose to four capsules daily during increased cognitive demand. Taking Mind Lab Pro with water, juice, or coffee is best.
I’ve been using Mind Lab Pro for several extended periods of high-demand brain activity, and I can confidently say that it lives up to its claims.
If you are looking for a natural supplement to help boost your cognitive performance, then Mind Lab Pro is an excellent choice to get the most out of your day and start building toward long-term cognitive performance.
Pros
- Proven to boost overall cognitive performance including memory, focus, mood, creativity, motivation, and overall well-being.
- Potent blend of all-natural nootropics, herbs, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
- Good for experienced biohackers and those new to nootropics.
- Caffeine Free
- No artificial fillers or toxic preservatives
- Affordable Price, money back guarantee
Cons
- Ingredients are lower dosed.
Citicoline Capsules by Nootropics Depot
Increases attention and focus
Improves memory, mood, and dopamine levels
Combines well with cholinergic nootropics like racetams
Citicoline is the most bioavailable source of choline for your brain. Getting adequate levels of choline is important for optimizing attention and focus.
Citicoline can also help improve memory and learning, making it a great choice for students or anyone looking to boost their cognitive performance.
It’s best used in combination with a racetam or acetylcholinesterase inhibitor like Huperzine A. Citicoline has also shown benefits for ADHD when used with caffeine. 1Steven E. Bruce, et al. Improvements in Concentration, Working Memory, and Sustained Attention Following Consumption of a Natural Citicoline-Caffeine Beverage, Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2014
Since citicoline has shown the ability to increase dopamine release, it is a prime candidate as a nootropic for ADHD. It can also improve mood and memory, which are both often seen with ADHD.
Some people also find that this nootropic increases their mood.
Citicoline dosage typically ranges from 250-1000 mg per day. When starting out, it’s always best to start with a lower dose and increase as needed.
If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your cognitive function, Citicoline is definitely worth considering.
Learn more about Citicoline
Pros
- Great choice for students or anyone looking to boost their cognitive performance
- Improves focus, attention, and impulse control in people with ADHD
- Generally well tolerated and side effects are rare.
- All-natural supplement
- Easily found online or in health food stores
Cons
- May cause stomach upset, headache, dizziness, and insomnia
Other Forms of Choline
In addition to alpha-GPC and CDP choline, you can obtain choline in the form of phosphatidylcholine and choline bitartrate.
Phosphatidylcholine is present in several natural products such as soybean, eggs, etc.
According to clinical trials, the natural compound phosphatidylcholine is potent in reducing cognitive impairment.3Wen Tan et al, Phosphatidylcholine Ameliorates LPS-Induced Systemic Inflammation and Cognitive Impairments via Mediating the Gut–Brain Axis BalanceJ. Agric. Food Chem. 2020
It works by mediating the gut-brain axis in the brain that regulates brain health.
Choline bitartrate is absorbed in the body but not as effective as natural choline from egg yolk.4Lotte Smolders et al, Natural Choline from Egg Yolk Phospholipids Is More Efficiently Absorbed Compared with Choline Bitartrate; Outcomes of A Randomized Trial in Healthy AdultsNutrients 2019
The naturally occurring compound choline can be absorbed through the cell membranes.
Choline and Cognitive Function
There are numerous health benefits of choline consumption.
The most noticeable improvements lie in cognitive functions.
Choline-rich foods and supplementation can boost cognitive performance and, at the same time, reduce the rate of cognitive decline in patients and memory and cognitive function according to clinical trials.5Joyce C.McCann et al, An overview of evidence for a causal relationship between dietary availability of choline during development and cognitive function in offspringNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews. 2006
Many clinical trials also suggest that choline supplementation can maintain cognitive performance. 6Thomas B Shea Choline and phosphatidylcholine may maintain cognitive performance by multiple mechanismsThe American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2019
There are multiple mechanisms through which choline alters cognitive performance in adults.
In addition to improving cognitive abilities, individuals consuming choline for cognition have reported increased brain energy.
Loss of cholinergic neurons and cholinergic neurotransmitter acetylcholine is common in diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Age-related cognitive decline, altered mental performance, and neurodegenerative diseases can be improved by dietary choline.
According to a cohort study, dietary choline imparts cognitive enhancement by altering different neurophysical factors, including verbal memory performance, visual memory, verbal learning, and executive function.7Coreyann Poly et al, The relation of dietary choline to cognitive performance and white-matter hyperintensity in the Framingham Offspring CohortThe American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2011
Chronic supplementation with choline reduces oxidative stress, enhances cholinergic transmission, and increases monoamine levels (brain biogenic monoamines induced cognition) in the brain. This results in subtle improvements in cognition.8SaiqaTabassum et al, Chronic choline supplementation improves cognitive and motor performance via modulating oxidative and neurochemical status in ratsPharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior. 2017
Choline and Focus
The neurotransmitter acetylcholine is essential for mental energy and focus.
Scientific research provides evidence that choline (in the form of CDP choline) effectively improves neural functioning and all-around cognitive enhancement.9Emma Derbyshire andRima Obeid, Choline, Neurological Development and Brain Function: A Systematic Review Focusing on the First 1000 DaysNutrients 2020
The improvements in neural functioning allow better focus and concentration.
Choline supplementation in pregnant women can lead to better neurodevelopment of the fetus, which makes the child more focused.
Supplementation with vitamin B complex and choline significantly improves memory and attention-holding capacity.10ScienceDaily, Vitamin B: Choline intake improves memory and attention-holding capacity, experts sayScienceDaily, 2013
Thus, individuals taking choline in whatever form can see noticeable improvements in attention, focus, and learning.
Alpha-GPC consumption increases mental alertness, making individuals focused and concentrated on their work.
Animal studies have revealed that attentional performance is linked to acetylcholine levels in the brain cortex.11Martin Sarter and Vinay Parikh, Choline transporters, cholinergic transmission and cognitionNature Reviews Neuroscience. 2005
Thus, the cholinergic system plays an essential role in attention, cognition, and focus.
Choline and Memory and Learning
Choline supplementation is a beneficial addition to the diet regarding learning and memory performance.
As per a clinical review, choline intake can attenuate learning deficits leading to improved learning and memory.12S. HunterRyanJennifer K.WilliamsJennifer D.Thomas, Choline supplementation attenuates learning deficits associated with neonatal alcohol exposure in the rat: Effects of varying the timing of choline administrationBrain Research. 2008
CDP choline has been included in the list of potent nootropic supplements.
Amongst different nootropic drugs CDP choline (oral citicoline) has memory-enhancing effects similar to piracetam and meclofenoxate.13Petkov VD et al, Effect of CDP-choline on learning and memory processes in rodents.Methods and Findings in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology.1992
Alpha-GPC and citicoline are given as dietary supplements to youngsters of school-going age.
As per a pharmacological and clinical review, individuals given early dietary intervention (choline supplements) perform better at learning tasks.14Jennifer DThomas et al, Neonatal choline supplementation ameliorates the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on a discrimination learning task in ratsNeurotoxicology and Teratology. 2000
Supplementation also enhances the performance of discrimination tasks in children.
Young students can increase their memory and learning capabilities by taking choline supplements, demonstrating its role as an essential nutrient.
Prenatal choline (choline in the mother’s diet) plays a significant role in the child’s memory development.15Steven H Zeisel, Choline: Needed for Normal Development of Memory Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 2000
Patients with status epilepticus are often faced with the problem of memory deficits.
Choline supplementation can even reduce the memory impairment associated with seizures (of status epilepticus).16Gregory LHolmes et al, Seizure-induced memory impairment is reduced by choline supplementation before or after status epilepticusEpilepsy Research. 2002
It not only improves the ability to form memory but also positively affects other aspects of learning and retaining.
Choline improves memory consolidation in patients with scopolamine-induced memory impairment.
Memory reactivation in such patients with choline consumption is appreciable.17 M.G.Blake et al, Choline reverses scopolamine-induced memory impairment by improving memory reconsolidationNeurobiology of Learning and Memory. 2012
Choline and Brain Fog
Most modern-day nootropics contain handsome amounts of choline to reduce brain fog and increase brain energy.
Brain fog interferes with the patients’ thinking abilities and decreases their learning capacity.
Alpha-GPC has shown promising results in cutting down brain fog.
Oral CDP choline and alpha GPC improve cognition and enhance mental productivity by reducing cognitive impairment.
Choline and Neuroprotection
CDP choline is an integral component of the neuronal membranes of the brain.
Dietary CDP choline imparts a neuroprotective effect by preventing memory impairment.18Lisa A. Teather, and Richard J. Wurtman, Dietary CDP-choline supplementation prevents memory impairment caused by impoverished environmental conditions in ratsLearn. Mem. 2005
Natural acetylcholine undergoes degeneration as a result of cerebral ischemia. Thus, CDP choline can be used to treat chronic cerebrovascular diseases characterized by cerebral ischemia or ischemic stroke, etc.
Choline supplementation protects the brain from neuropathological changes (that take place in Alzheimer’s disease).19Jan Krzysztof Blusztajn, Neuroprotective Actions of Dietary CholineNutrients 2017
Brain repair by choline intake is also observed in some cases.
There is insufficient evidence that concludes that choline repairs neurons.
Choline positively alters the brain chemistry to keep it safe from neurodegeneration.
Studies show that CDP choline’s adrenergic and dopaminergic activity on the central nervous system makes it an ideal candidate as an adjuvant in treating Parkinson’s disease.20Mario Fioravanti Motokazu Yanagi, Cytidinediphosphocholine (CDP‐choline) for cognitive and behavioural disturbances associated with chronic cerebral disorders in the elderlyCochrane Library . 2005
Phosphatidylcholine-DHA intake significantly reduces the risk of neurodegeneration diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.21Rhonda P. Patrick, Role of phosphatidylcholine-DHA in preventing APOE4-associated Alzheimer’s diseaseThe FASEB Journal. 2018
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- 1Philip A. DeFina et al, Alzheimer’s Disease Clinical and Research Update for Health Care PractitionersJournal of Aging Research, vol. 2013
- 2Richard JWurtman et al, Effect of oral CDP-choline on plasma choline and uridine levels in humansBiochemical Pharmacology. 2000
- 3Wen Tan et al, Phosphatidylcholine Ameliorates LPS-Induced Systemic Inflammation and Cognitive Impairments via Mediating the Gut–Brain Axis BalanceJ. Agric. Food Chem. 2020
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- 5Joyce C.McCann et al, An overview of evidence for a causal relationship between dietary availability of choline during development and cognitive function in offspringNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews. 2006
- 6Thomas B Shea Choline and phosphatidylcholine may maintain cognitive performance by multiple mechanismsThe American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2019
- 7Coreyann Poly et al, The relation of dietary choline to cognitive performance and white-matter hyperintensity in the Framingham Offspring CohortThe American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2011
- 8SaiqaTabassum et al, Chronic choline supplementation improves cognitive and motor performance via modulating oxidative and neurochemical status in ratsPharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior. 2017
- 9Emma Derbyshire andRima Obeid, Choline, Neurological Development and Brain Function: A Systematic Review Focusing on the First 1000 DaysNutrients 2020
- 10ScienceDaily, Vitamin B: Choline intake improves memory and attention-holding capacity, experts sayScienceDaily, 2013
- 11Martin Sarter and Vinay Parikh, Choline transporters, cholinergic transmission and cognitionNature Reviews Neuroscience. 2005
- 12S. HunterRyanJennifer K.WilliamsJennifer D.Thomas, Choline supplementation attenuates learning deficits associated with neonatal alcohol exposure in the rat: Effects of varying the timing of choline administrationBrain Research. 2008
- 13Petkov VD et al, Effect of CDP-choline on learning and memory processes in rodents.Methods and Findings in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology.1992
- 14Jennifer DThomas et al, Neonatal choline supplementation ameliorates the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on a discrimination learning task in ratsNeurotoxicology and Teratology. 2000
- 15Steven H Zeisel, Choline: Needed for Normal Development of Memory Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 2000
- 16Gregory LHolmes et al, Seizure-induced memory impairment is reduced by choline supplementation before or after status epilepticusEpilepsy Research. 2002
- 17M.G.Blake et al, Choline reverses scopolamine-induced memory impairment by improving memory reconsolidationNeurobiology of Learning and Memory. 2012
- 18Lisa A. Teather, and Richard J. Wurtman, Dietary CDP-choline supplementation prevents memory impairment caused by impoverished environmental conditions in ratsLearn. Mem. 2005
- 19Jan Krzysztof Blusztajn, Neuroprotective Actions of Dietary CholineNutrients 2017
- 20Mario Fioravanti Motokazu Yanagi, Cytidinediphosphocholine (CDP‐choline) for cognitive and behavioural disturbances associated with chronic cerebral disorders in the elderlyCochrane Library . 2005
- 21Rhonda P. Patrick, Role of phosphatidylcholine-DHA in preventing APOE4-associated Alzheimer’s diseaseThe FASEB Journal. 2018
