Get in the Zone: Best Nootropics for ADHD & Focus

Last Updated:
Medically reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra

Key Information

Nootropics are brain-boosting supplements

Nootropics are safe, non-addictive substances that enhance cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and creativity.

Probiotics and magnesium can help with ADHD

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that improve gut health and mood. Magnesium is a mineral that regulates neurotransmitters and reduces stress.

Diet and lifestyle choices affect ADHD symptoms

Eating a balanced diet, avoiding processed foods, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly can improve ADHD symptoms and overall well-being.

Best nootropics for ADHD are listed below

The page provides a list of the best nootropics for ADHD, such as L-theanine, Bacopa monnieri, Rhodiola rosea, and more.

Affiliate Disclosure: Holistic Nootropics may earn affiliate commissions if you purchase through the links on this page. Here's how it works.

Welcome! If you’re looking for the best nootropics for ADHD, you’ve come to the right place.

I compiled this list because, as a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, I’ve worked with many clients struggling with ADHD who have found nootropics particularly helpful.

The fact is that nootropics, combined with the proper diet and lifestyle habits, can keep ADHD symptoms at bay.

The nootropics market has grown exponentially in recent years, and it can be hard to know which products are good and which are not.

That’s why I have spent over 40 hours researching and testing different products to find the best nootropics for ADHD available today.

After careful consideration, I have compiled a list of the top nootropics that can help with ADHD symptoms.

In this article, I will discuss each of these nootropics in detail so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you. I will also provide information on how to use them safely and effectively.

If you’re ready to learn more about the best nootropics for ADHD, let’s get started!

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What Are The Best Nootropics for ADHD in March 2024 – Quick Answers

Mind Lab Pro #1

Mind Lab Pro

#1 Blend for ADHD
5
Shop NowBuy 3 bottles, get 1 free with our links
NooCube #2

NooCube

Potent all-natural nootropic blend
5
Shop NowGet 20% off three bottles
Noopept #3

Noopept

#1 Synthetic Nootropic for ADHD
4.5
Shop NowSave 10% w. code “HolisticNootropics”
Magnesium Breakthrough #4

Magnesium Breakthrough

Dr. recommended mineral needed by ADHD patients
4.8
Shop NowUse code: HOLISTICNOOTROPICS to save 10%
Alpha Brain by Onnit #5

Alpha Brain by Onnit

Reduce impulsivity, make better decisions faster
4.5
Shop NowLimited time offer: Free 15 day trial
Citicoline Capsules by Nootropics Depot #6

Citicoline Capsules by Nootropics Depot

#1 Nootropic Micronutrient
Oxiracetam by SwissChem #7

Oxiracetam by SwissChem

Potent synthetic nootropic for mental energy & Focus
4.5
Shop Now$10 Off With Code HolisticNootropics
CZTL Methylene Blue #8

CZTL Methylene Blue

Natural cellular energy boost!
4.5
Shop NowFree Tracked Shipping
DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) by Nootropics Depot #9

DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) by Nootropics Depot

Potent Focus Boosting Amino Acid
NALT (L-Tyrosine) #10

NALT (L-Tyrosine)

Dopamine on Demand!
Sulbutiamine by Double Wood #11

Sulbutiamine by Double Wood

Crucial, Bio-Available B-Vitamin

Best Nootropics For ADHD FAQ

The 11 Best Nootropics For ADHD – March 2024

Maximize your mental performance for peak productivity

NooCube

NooCube
Shop NowGet 20% off three bottles
Shop NowGet 20% off three bottles
  • 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

Science-backed nutrition for your brain

Mind Lab Pro

Mind Lab Pro
Shop NowBuy 3 bottles, get 1 free with our links
Shop NowBuy 3 bottles, get 1 free with our links
  • 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.

More potent than a racetam

Noopept

Noopept
Shop NowSave 10% w. code “HolisticNootropics”
Shop NowSave 10% w. code “HolisticNootropics”
  • Improves brain connectivity and helps with focus

  • Highly sustainable- no need for tolerance build up

  • Helps to avoid the sudden crashes you see with other drugs

  • Minimal side effects, can be taken every day

Noopept is a cognitive enhancer that has been shown to be effective in treating ADHD.

Noopept is structurally similar to Piracetam and works by increasing levels of acetylcholine and dopamine in the brain.

Noopept has been shown to improve memory, attention, and focus in people with ADHD, and may also help to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Noopept is typically taken in powder form, either by itself or mixed with a liquid.

Noopept is considered to be safe and well-tolerated but should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Noopept may interact with other medications, so it is important to talk to a doctor before taking Noopept.


#1 Magnesium Product

Magnesium Breakthrough

Magnesium Breakthrough
Shop NowUse code: HOLISTICNOOTROPICS to save 10%
Shop NowUse code: HOLISTICNOOTROPICS to save 10%
  • Magnesium restores balance to the mind and body

  • Improves symptoms of ADHD in some people

  • Triggers relaxation response

  • Steadies the mind for restful sleep

Magnesium is an essential mineral that is involved in over 300 metabolic processes in both the mind and body.

These metabolic processes include neurotransmitter synthesis including dopamine.

In today’s hectic society filled with nutrient-depleted food, magnesium deficiency is on the rise.

Subsequently most people with ADHD exhibit low levels of magnesium.1T Kozielec, et al. Assessment of magnesium levels in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Magnes Res. 2006

Recent research into magnesium’s influence on ADHD points to a statistically significant relationship between magnesium deficiency and ADHD.2Mohammad Effatpanah, et al. Magnesium status and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A meta-analysisPsychiatry Res. 2019

In clinical studies, supplementation with Magnesium has shown effective in improving ADHD symptoms. 3M Mousain-Bosc, et al. Improvement of neurobehavioral disorders in children supplemented with magnesium-vitamin B6. I. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, Magnes Res. 2006

Ultimately, magnesium is highly effective at calming the body’s stress response, inducing relaxation, and steadying the mind.

Learn more about how Magnesium works in treating ADHD and other symptoms.

Pros

  • Includes the 7 most effective forms of magnesium
  • Highly credible manufacturer
  • No added fillers, preservatives, or unnecessary ingredients
  • Free shipping and discounts are available

Cons

  • Underdosed for specific magnesium type you may want

Try it Now – Free 15 Day Trial

Alpha Brain by Onnit

4.5
Alpha Brain by Onnit
Shop NowLimited time offer: Free 15 day trial
Shop NowLimited time offer: Free 15 day trial
  • 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.


Pure, bio-available choline

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. 4Steven 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

Most Adderall-like racetam nootropic

Oxiracetam by SwissChem

Oxiracetam by SwissChem
Shop Now$10 Off With Code HolisticNootropics
Read Full Review$10 Off With Code HolisticNootropics
Shop Now$10 Off With Code HolisticNootropics
Read Full Review$10 Off With Code HolisticNootropics
  • Can help increase attention span and cognition

  • Studies show that it can improve memory

  • People report feeling more focused and motivated to study/work

  • Boosts levels of neurotransmitters in the brain

  • Gives an energy “kick” not experienced w. most other nootropics

Oxiracetam is a synthetic racetam-type nootropic, meaning it modulates the AMPA and NDMA receptors in your brain.

It increases the amount of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which can ultimately help you study better.5Gouliaev AH, Senning A. Piracetam and other structurally related nootropics, Brain Res Brain Res Rev. 1994

Oxiracetam has clinically proven benefits for cognition, and many users note that it can increase their attention span, information retention, and overall cognitive processes.

In short, it can help you get “in the zone” while studying.6Fordyce DE, et al. Enhancement of hippocampally-mediated learning and protein kinase C activity by oxiracetam in learning-impaired DBA/2 mice, Brain Res. 1995

This nootropic also has a mild stimulatory effect that can keep you alert and on task. However, it is not nearly as powerful as a drug like Adderall, so you don’t need to worry about crashing later.

Oxiracetam achieves its effects through much more subtle and sustainable means so that you can take it frequently without fear.

Learn More Oxiracetam for Studying

Pros

  • Highly potent
  • Adderall-like effectiveness
  • Great for focus, memory, learning
  • Neuroprotective qualities
  • Energy-stimulating properties

Cons

  • No effects on mood
  • Can lead to a headache if not paired w. choline
  • May be too stimulating for some

Energy Crystals: CZTL Methylene Blue

CZTL Methylene Blue

4.5
CZTL Methylene Blue
View OfferFree Tracked Shipping
View OfferFree Tracked Shipping
  • Fast Effects

  • Clear Energy

  • Improves Mood

CZTL methylene blue provides a short burst of stimulation, motivation, mood lift, and mental clarity by improving oxygen flow and electron transport in the brain and body. The small crystals dissolve completely with no residue or particles. Effects are felt within 5 minutes but last 30 minutes max. Despite the esoteric name suggesting synthetic origin, CZTL is simply ultra-pure methylene blue.

Pros

  • Occasional Use
  • No Fillers
  • Motivation on Demand

Cons

  • Potential for Serotonin Syndrome
  • Undefined Regulatory Status
  • Not for Daily Use
  • Can Stain Skin and Urine Blue Temporarily
  • Terminal Half-life Under 2 hours
View OfferFree Tracked Shipping
The ADHD Amino Acid

DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) by Nootropics Depot

  • Primary building block for Dopamine

  • Increase concentration and focus

  • Enhance neuroplasticity to create new connections in the brain

  • Mild stimulatory effect- less likely to ruin sleep patterns than traditional ADHD drugs

DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA) is an amino acid that can be found in foods like meat, milk, and beans. It’s also available as a supplement.

Some people take DL-Phenylalanine for ADHD because it’s thought to increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These are two chemicals that play a role in ADHD.

This nootropic could provide the building blocks to make up this deficit.

There is some evidence that DL-Phenylalanine may help with ADHD symptoms. Some initial trials saw improvements in patients; others did not.7Wood DR, Reimherr FW, Wender PH.Treatment of attention deficit disorder with DL-phenylalanine, Psychiatry Res. 1985 Sep

And as always, be sure to consult with a doctor before starting any new supplement regimen. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking any medications.

Read more about DLPAs potential for treating ADHD.

Pros

  • DLPA has been shown to help with ADHD symptoms in some people
  • May provide the building blocks to make up for a deficit in dopamine and norepinephrine
  • DLPA is available as a supplement so you can get the benefits without having to change your diet
  • Effective doses are small, only 10-60mg

Cons

  • Increased norepinephrine levels can trigger headaches in some people
  • Increased levels of dopamine can cause anxiety is some people

Potent dopamine precursor

NALT (L-Tyrosine)

  • NALT is a precursor to important neurotransmitters like dopamine

  • Helps boost dopamine levels, which can improve mood and sleep

  • May help with anxiety and depression

  • Can be used as an alternative to ADHD drugs

  • Helps boost energy and motivation

NALT (N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine) is a naturally occurring amino acid that’s derived from tryptophan.

This nootropic acts as a precursor to dopamine, serotonin, and adrenaline. It is much more potent than healthy tyrosine and gets used by your body much faster.

It’s often used as a dietary supplement for people who want to boost their serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in mood and sleep. Nalt may also be used to help treat anxiety and depression. Some research suggests that nalt can improve symptoms of both conditions. Some people use NALT as an alternative to ADHD drugs, enjoying the energy and focus it brings. Others use it alongside their medication.

Because NALT provides the building blocks for the neurotransmitters that Adderall depletes, some people use it at the end of the day to replenish those stores.8Fernstrom JD, Fernstrom MH. Tyrosine, phenylalanine, and catecholamine synthesis and function in the brain, J Nutr. 2007 9Marty Hinz, et al. Treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder with monoamine amino acid precursors and organic cation transporter assay interpretation, Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2011

Some people also find that this nootropic also increases their mood.

Learn about NALT for mood, attention deficit disorder, and sleep deprivation.

Pros

  • Non-addictive and has few side effects
  • Does not interact with other medications, so it can be taken safely by people who are taking other medications for other conditions
  • Relatively inexpensive and is covered by many insurance plans

Cons

  • Can cause withdrawal symptoms in people who stop taking it suddenly
  • Can also cause liver damage, so people with liver problems should not take nalt

Add More Energy

Sulbutiamine by Double Wood

  • Boosts energy without the crash of other stimulants

  • Improves mood and focus

  • Treat ADHD symptoms (focus, concentration)

  • Treat ADHD symptoms (focus, concentration) Promotes ATP Cell Production

Sulbutiamine is a synthetic derivative of thiamine (vitamin B1). It was created in an effort to improve the absorption and efficacy of thiamine. Sulbutiamine has been shown to increase alertness, vigilance, and energy levels while also reducing fatigue. Additionally, sulbutiamine has neuroprotective and nootropic effects.

Sulbutiamine is thought to work by increasing the level of thiamine in the brain. Thiamine is an essential nutrient that plays a role in nerve function and energy production. Sulbutiamine may also help to protect nerve cells from damage and improve communication between nerve cells.

Sulbutiamine has been shown to be effective in treating fatigue, improving cognitive function, and reducing the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, sulbutiamine has been shown to improve blood flow and protect nerve cells from damage.

Sulbutiamine is generally well-tolerated and side effects are rare. The most common side effect is mild gastrointestinal distress.


What Is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world.

Symptoms of ADHD include:

  • Short attention span, especially for non-preferred tasks
  • Hyperactivity, which may be physical, verbal, and/or emotional
  • Impulsiveness
  • Disorganization and problems prioritizing
  • Poor time management skills
  • Problems focusing on a task
  • Trouble multitasking
  • Excessive fidgeting or squirming while seated
  • Leaving their seats in situations when staying seated is expected

Studies have shown that nootropics can be an effective alternative to traditional ADHD medications such as Ritalin or Adderall.

If you or someone you know is struggling with ADHD, understanding the benefits of nootropics may be beneficial in helping to manage symptoms naturally.

The Best Natural ADHD Treatments

In addition to nootropics, there are many affordable, natural options that are highly effective at treating ADHD.

In fact, many top doctors and specialists regularly recommend these to patients as either a substitute for or in addition to prescription meds.   These options include:

  • Probiotics
  • Magnesium
  • Diet and Lifestyle Intervention

Probiotics, Gut Health, and ADHD

over 50% of neural dopamine production comes from bacteria in your gut.1Rufeng Xue, et al. Peripheral Dopamine Controlled by Gut Microbes Inhibits Invariant Natural Killer T Cell-Mediated HepatitisFront. Immunol. 2018

This is important since traditional ADHD medication is designed to enhance dopamine production.

Nootropics for ADHD

By optimizing your gut’s ability to produce dopamine, you can enhance the main pathway that affects your focus.

The best way to boost beneficial gut bacteria is through probiotic supplementation.

My top probiotic choice is Megasporebiotic.

Read My Full Review Of Megasporebiotic HERE

The Clear Front Runner
Also very good
15-day Free Trial
Mind Lab Pro
NooCube
Alpha Brain by Onnit

Mind Lab Pro

NooCube

Alpha Brain by Onnit

Learn MoreBuy 3 bottles, get 1 free with our links
Learn MoreGet 20% Off 3 Bottles
Learn MoreLimited time offer: Free 15 day trial

Contains 11 different ingredients including Citicoline, Lion’s Mane Mushroom Extract, Phosphatidylserine Complex, and Rhodiola Rosea Extract. This supplement is designed to help improve overall mental performance by supporting healthy brain chemistry.

Contains eight different ingredients including Alpha GPC, Cat’s Claw, Bacopa Monnieri, Oat Straw, L-Tyrosine, and L-Theanine. Designed to help improve memory recall and concentration while also providing support for healthy brain function.

Contains similar ingtredients to NooCube, but uses their own proprietary blends of these nootropics which makes it difficult to determine the exact amount of each ingredient.

Diet and Lifestyle Impact on ADHD

It should come as no surprise that food has a major impact on how you feel.

Now, new research shows that dietary habits and lifestyle can contribute to ADHD symptoms too!

Nootropics for ADHD

A metabolic syndrome caused by an inflammatory diet increases markers of inflammation in the body which increases feelings like impulsivity or hyperactivity–all traits associated with attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD).2Zohar LandauAttention Deficit/Hyperactivity, the Metabolic Syndrome, and Type 2 DiabetesCurr Diab Rep. 20193Laura LaChance, MD, et al. Omega-6 to Omega-3 Fatty Acid Ratio in Patients with ADHD: A Meta-AnalysisJ Can Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2016

Controlling metabolism is a critical piece of keeping your mind focused, optimized, and free from ADHD.

The top tool for doing this? Lumen Metabolism Checker!

With the Lumen app, you can track your eating and activity habits to see how it impacts metabolism.

They even provide dietary recommendations for a personalized plan tailored just for YOU.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE LUMEN METABOLISM TRACKER

How Common Is ADHD?

Every year around 5-6 million kids aged 2-17 receive a new ADHD diagnosis.4Data and Statistics About ADHD, Center For Disease Control and Prevention. 2019

60% of these cases include clinically significant symptoms that persist into adulthood.5Steven D. Targum and Lenard A. Adler Our Current Understanding of Adult ADHD Innov Clin Neurosci. 2014

It’s important to note that these numbers reflect only those kids who actually receive an official ADHD diagnosis.

Many mental health experts believe the condition to be underdiagnosed.6Russell A. Barkley, PhD. Assessing Adults With ADHD and Comorbidities Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry. 2009

ADHD and Comorbidities

ADHD is infamous for being accompanied by many comorbidities.

It’s not uncommon to suffer from ADHD while also dealing with other mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.7Belén Roselló, Carmen Berenguer, Inmaculada Baixauli, Álvaro Mira, Jose Martinez-Raga & Ana MirandaEmpirical examination of executive functioning, ADHD associated behaviors, and functional impairments in adults with persistent ADHD, remittent ADHD, and without ADHD BMC Psychiatry volume. 2020

ADHD nootropics, nootropics for treating ADHD, Nootropics Like Adderall, Adderall Alternatives
ADHD can interfere with the ability to accomplish even simple tasks

In adults, especially, these comorbidities can lead to functional impairments in some life activities, including an affinity to risky behaviors, employment difficulties, relationship problems, emotional problems, and restlessness.

Related: The 7 Best Adderall Replacement Nootropics

Traditional ADHD Treatments

There are several pharmaceutical treatments available for anyone diagnosed with ADHD.  These include:

  • Amphetamine (Adderall)
  • Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
  • Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)

These drugs help boost dopamine in the brain, but with different courses of action to do so.

Amphetamine is the fastest route to boosting dopamine levels in the brain, while methylphenidate acts more to slow dopamine uptake.  This helps the brain preserve the levels of dopamine that are already there.

Nootropics for ADHD

Lisdexamfetamine is a prodrug of amphetamine.  This means your body metabolizes it into dextroamphetamine, which is an active ingredient in Adderall.

The advantage of Lisdexamfetamine is that because it acts slower in the body, it should be safer than traditional amphetamine.

All 3 of these drugs are classified as schedule 2 by the Drug Enforcement Administration/Food and Drug Administration (DEA/FDA) and come with a high potential for abuse.8Nazila Sharbaf Shoar; Raman Marwaha; Mohammed Molla. Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine StatPearls. 2020

These drugs can do wonders and come with harmful side effects, including irritability, anxiety, high blood pressure, heart problems, lack of sleep, loss of appetite, and addiction.

As anyone who has suffered the dreaded Adderall crash can tell you, sometimes the benefit is not worth the pain.

Do Nootropics Work For ADHD

Nootropics can be a powerful alternative to traditional ADHD medications.

The nootropics below are shown to boost brain function by more foundational means like boosting acetylcholine activity, supporting BDNF function, and optimizing ATP production.

Some nootropics can even directly boost dopamine production.

This is not to say that nootropics deliver the same, stimulating force that you get from something like Adderall or Ritalin.

These drugs are designed to manipulate dopamine production while nootropics take a more indirect, holistic approach.

While not as potent as traditional drugs, nootropics are highly effective, non-addictive, and core with little-to-no side-effects.

Nootropics also are a useful tool to help come off these harder stimulants while mitigating withdrawal symptoms.

With that being said, let’s take a look at some over the counter nootropics that can be used to help ADHD.

Read More: Why You Should Never Buy Nootropics From Amazon

What The Experts Say About Treating ADHD

A healthy diet can provide an effective complementary approach to alleviating some symptoms of ADHD. – Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)

Previous studies showed that certain vitamins, minerals, and amino acids may contribute to the pathology of ADHD (discussed below). Thus, a wide range of nutritional supplements (vitamins and minerals) have been proposed as potential adjunct and alternative ADHD treatments. – Journal of Neural Transplantation and Plasticity

Wrapping up

So, there are several options if you are trying to treat your ADHD with nootropics.

Some people are wary of traditional medication’s drawbacks and are willing to try over-the-counter supplements.

Although research may be minimal for some of them, that does not necessarily mean they may or may not work for you.

As with anything, please be cautious and listen to your body. Stop taking any supplements if you feel an adverse reaction.

Hopefully, one (or a combination) of the nootropics above can help!


References

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Author

Erik Abramowitz is a certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP), Naturopathic Doctoral student, health coach, and father. He is the primary content creator for HolisticNootropics.com and the host of the Holistic Nootropics Podcast.