As school becomes more competitive, students around the world are turning to cognitive-enhancing nootropics.
These include nootropic supplements that can increase mental performance without the dangerous side effects of traditional study drugs.
What Are The Best Nootropics for Studying – Quick Answers
Mind Lab Pro
Nootropics for Studying – Frequently Asked Questions
What are nootropics, and how do they work to improve studying?
Nootropics are a class of cognitive-enhancing drugs that work by affecting various aspects of brain function, including neurotransmitter activity, neuroplasticity, and brain health. Some nootropics also help to increase levels of important neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which can help improve mood and motivation to study effectively. Additionally, these supplements may help to enhance memory formation and recall by increasing blood flow and circulation in the brain to promote better information processing.
How effective are nootropics for improving your memory when studying or taking tests?
Studies have shown that many nootropic compounds can significantly improve memory function in both healthy individuals and those with cognitive disorders like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
In particular, substances like piracetam, aniracetam, oxiracetam, pramiracetam, and Noopept have been shown to increase the density of synapses in the brain and improve long-term potentiation (LTP) – a mechanism that is crucial for forming memories.
Can nootropics be used as an alternative to prescription drugs like Adderall?
Yes, many people find that using nootropics as an alternative to prescription drugs like Adderall can be beneficial for improving focus and concentration during study sessions or test-taking scenarios without experiencing the same negative side effects that commonly occur when taking medications like Adderall long-term. However, it is important to note that each individual’s response to different supplements will vary depending on factors like age, medical conditions, and overall health status.
How do you know which nootropic is right for you when studying or taking tests?
There are many different types of nootropics available on the market today, each with its unique properties and effects on cognitive function. When choosing a nootropic for studying or test-taking purposes, it is important to consider factors such as its mechanism of action (how it works in the body), its bioavailability (how well it is absorbed into your system), its duration of action (how long it takes effect after being administered), as well as any potential side effects or drug interactions.
What are some of the most popular nootropics for studying?
Some of the most common nootropics used as an alternative to Adderall include racetams like piracetam, noopept, and pramiracetam; amino acid supplements like L-tyrosine; cholinergics like Alpha GPC and citicoline; and natural herbal remedies like ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea.
Each of these different types of nootropics has been shown in clinical studies to have significant benefits for mental performance and focus compared to placebo groups, making them a popular choice for those looking for nootropics for studying.
How can you ensure optimal results when taking nootropics for studying?
There are several things you can do to ensure optimal results when taking nootropics for studying purposes. First and foremost, it is important to start with a low dose when trying out any new substance to see how your body reacts to it before increasing your dosage gradually over time if necessary.
Additionally, it is important to take care of yourself physically by getting sufficient sleep each night and eating a healthy diet rich in whole foods that provide your body with the nutrients it needs for optimal functioning during daytime hours when you will likely be using your brain most active while studying or preparing for tests at school or work.
Finally, be sure to balance study activities with regular breaks throughout the day so that your brain has time both to rest between tasks but also stay active enough so that you remain focused while engaged in those tasks during those times when you need extra mental exertion such as while writing papers or cramming before major exams at school or work-related deadlines at the office.
Are there any risks associated with taking nootropics for studying purposes?
While most nootropic substances are considered safe when taken at recommended dosages for short periods, there may be certain risks associated with using these substances for more extended periods or at higher dosages.
For example, some users report experiencing headaches or irritability from taking high doses of caffeine or other stimulants over long periods. Additionally, some people experience unwanted side effects from taking certain nootropic compounds such as racetams or cholinergics that can interfere with sleep cycles or cause digestive issues such as nausea or constipation.
As always, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new supplement regimen to discuss any potential risks or adverse effects of using these substances for studying.
Attention Deficit Disorder Drugs
It’s no secret that heavy stimulants such as Adderall have become an epidemic on college campuses.
Although some students legitimately need these medications to manage their ADHD, many students purchase the drugs on the black market to pull all-nighters.
While Adderall abuse may have some benefits in the short term, it can come with some severe downsides.
Read more: Best Nootropics For ADHD
Natural Over-The-Counter Adderall Alternatives
While adderall or ritalin can help you “cram in a jam”, anyone who has experienced the dreaded Adderall crash will attest to how terrible these drugs can make you feel when they wear off.
Taking prescription stimulants off-label can cause potentially severe health issues such as:
- Sleep issues
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
However, nootropics can be a much more sustainable alternative to abusing drugs like Adderall.
ADD Supplements
Instead of dumping excessive amounts of dopamine in your brain, nootropics work through much more subtle pathways.
These supplements can improve your ability to concentrate and retain information while you study, without health risks.
Whether you are for college student or trying to memorize all of Wikipedia for your upcoming appearance on Jeopardy, here are our expert picks for the best nootropics for studying.
Read more: Best Adderall Alternatives
Best Nootropics For Studying
Mind Lab Pro
Mind Lab Pro is a powerful nootropic multivitamin that contains nootropics, amino acids, vitamins, and adaptogenic herbs.
Designed specifically to boost focus, memory, mood, while lowering stress and anxiety.
Increased mental energy, clear thinking, and working brain cells
Mind Lab Pro is a powerful nootropic supplement aimed at helping improve focus and concentration while studying. The key ingredients in Mind Lab Pro work together to provide a range of cognitive benefits, including increased brain energy, better memory recall, and improved mental clarity.
One of the main ingredients in Mind Lab Pro is citicoline, a potent brain-boosting compound that works by increasing levels of acetylcholine and dopamine in the brain. This helps to improve focus and concentration, making it easier to stay focused and on-task during long study sessions.
Another key ingredient in Mind Lab Pro is phosphatidylserine, which helps to increase production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These neurotransmitters play an important role in regulating mood, motivation, and overall cognitive function, making phosphatidylserine an excellent choice for staying motivated and keeping your mind sharp when you’re trying to tackle challenging coursework or study for exams.
Other ingredients in Mind Lab Pro include Bacopa monnieri, organic lion’s mane mushroom extract, maritime pine bark extract, L-theanine, and rhodiola rosea. Each of these ingredients has been shown to have beneficial effects on brain health and function, helping you stay focused and alert while studying for longer periods of time without experiencing any of the negative side effects associated with other stimulant-based nootropics.
Overall, I believe that Mind Lab Pro is an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost their focus and concentration while studying. Whether you’re struggling with procrastination or simply want a little extra support during those long hours spent hitting the books, this powerful nootropic can help you achieve your academic goals faster and more effectively than ever before!
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
Cons
- Ingredients are lower dosed.
- Fewer ingredients than other leading nootropic stacks
Thesis Nootropics Starter Pack
Tailored blends for specific cognitive, emotional, or wellness goals
Starter pack lets you try four of their six blends
Quiz can help you figure out which blend is right for you
Perfect for Nootropics noobies
Thesis Nootropics is a company that specializes in creating high-quality nootropic blends to help support concentration and focus. Their starter pack is a great option for anyone looking to enhance their mental performance, and it contains a combination of proven ingredients that have been shown to help improve cognitive function.
Some of the key ingredients found in Thesis Nootropics starter pack include DHH-B, saffron extract (affron), Zembrin, Synapsa, 7,8 DHF, choline, DHA, alpha GPC, agmatine, epicatechin, lion’s mane extract, and L-phenylalanine. These ingredients work together to enhance various aspects of brain health and function, helping to improve concentration and focus while reducing stress levels and promoting better overall cognitive health.
If you are looking for a way to boost your productivity and increase your ability to stay focused and motivated throughout the day, I would highly recommend taking their quiz to help find blends that help you meet your personal goals.
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
Stimulates NGF and BDNF synthesis
Boosts energy levels by raising alpha brain waves
Improves cognitive functioning and concentration
Lion’s Mane mushroom, scientifically referred to as Hericium Erinaceus is well known for its potential to support regeneration of impaired neuronal synapses, boost neurotransmitters, stimulate neurite outgrowth and neuronal signaling.1Vikineswary Sabaratnam, Wong Kah-Hui, Murali Naidu, and Pamela Rosie David, Neuronal Health – Can Culinary and Medicinal Mushrooms Help?, J Tradit Complement Med. 2013
Extracts of this culinary mushroom contain polysaccharides which have the ability to exert influence on neuronal differentiation and encourage survival of nerve cells.2Young Shik Park , Hyun Soo Lee, Moo Ho Won, Jin Ha Lee, Shin Young Lee, Hyeon Yong Lee, Effect of an exo-polysaccharide from the culture broth of Hericium erinaceus on enhancement of growth and differentiation of rat adrenal nerve cells, Cytotechnology. 2002
All of these combined properties mean consumption of Lion’s Mane mushroom stimulates learning caliber, promotes recalling capacity and assists you during the process of studying.3Kah-Hui Wong , Murali Naidu, Rosie Pamela David, Robiah Bakar, Vikineswary Sabaratnam, Neuroregenerative potential of lion’s mane mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (higher Basidiomycetes), in the treatment of peripheral nerve injury (review), Int J Med Mushrooms. 2012
Freshcap Mushrooms provide the highest percentage of beta glucans and fruiting body nutrients, making this mushroom product my preferred choice for Lion’s Mane.
Learn More about this Potent Nootropic: The Ultimate Guide to Lion’s Mane
Pros
- Clinically proven to increase Nerve Growth Factor synthesis
- Can cross the blood-brain barrier
- Boosts energy levels and sharpens focus
- Suitable for Vegans/Vegetarians
- Available in powder and pill form
- Can be mixed in with meals and beverages
Cons
- Can contain small amounts of toxins if not purchased from reputable sources
Bacopa Monnieri
Increased mental processing speed
Increases ability to recall information
Improve Memory, Learning, and Cognition
Protect nerve cells and promote growth of new cells
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
Can reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and seizures
Bacopa is an all-natural nootropic in use for millennia in Eastern cultures. It may be one of the original study drugs.
There is archeological evidence that monks and scholars used bacopa monnieri to help them memorize prayers and manuscripts thousands of years ago!
Nothing has changed all that much, and Bacopa is still a fantastic herb for hitting the books if you’re a modern student. Modern research also suggests that this nootropic is useful for studying.
Bacopa monnieri contains organic compounds called “bacosides” that may speed up mental processing and increase information retention according to research.
As another bonus for students, bacopa is an adaptogen, meaning it can help the body deal with stress and help the anxiety of studying for exams.
Bacopa can keep your hormones in balance so that you can focus effectively on the work in front of you.
We consider bacopa a must-have for any student looking for a calm and collected focus.
Pros
- Increases acetylcholine – the most important neurotransmitter for memory and learning
- Can also increase serotonin and GABA in the hippocampus, the brain’s hub for memory and emotions
- Can offset cognitive decline with aging
- May protect the gut and stomach
- Can be taken in capsule or powder form
Cons
- Some people say doesn’t taste good and can cause nausea or stomach upset
- Possible interaction with the antidepressant amitriptyline, consult doctor before using
Blood Sugar Breakthrough
Blood Sugar Breakthrough is a complex formula consisting of several ingredients which have been linked to the enhancement of cognitive processes such as memory, concentration and studying.
Ingredients like biotin, chromium, and alpha lipoic acid found in Blood Sugar Breakthrough can improve the responsiveness of the body’s cells and tissues to insulin and hence have an overall positive impact on brain health.4NIH, Chromium, NIH. 20215Mitra Hemmati, Homa Babaei, and Mohammadreza Abdolsalehei, Survey of the Effect of Biotin on Glycemic Control and Plasma Lipid Concentrations in Type 1 Diabetic Patients in Kermanshah in Iran (2008-2009), Oman Med J. 2013
Some ingredients in the Blood Sugar Breakthrough Formula have antioxidative properties which also aid in the improvement of intense cognitive exercises like studying.6Supatra Porasuphatana , Suthi Suddee, Atinuch Nartnampong, Julraht Konsil, Busakorn Harnwong, Adichai Santaweesuk, Glycemic and oxidative status of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus following oral administration of alpha-lipoic acid: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled study, Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2012
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients that have been clinically proven to help lower blood sugar levels
- Has been shown to help people lose weight
- comes with a money-back guarantee, so you can feel confident that you’re not wasting your money if it doesn’t work for you
Cons
- Can be a bit pricey
Oxiracetam
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
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.7Gouliaev 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.8Fordyce 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.
Magnesium Breakthrough
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 for various cognitive functions, including studying. We know that studying is an extensive process requiring deep concentration, learning and memorization.9Kateba Al-Ghazali, Sana Eltayeb, Ayesha Musleh, Tamara Al-Abdi, Vijay Ganji, and Zumin Shi, Serum Magnesium and Cognitive Function Among Qatari Adults, Front Aging Neurosci. 2020
Research suggests that increasing the intake of dietary magnesium can help in enhancing our cognitive abilities such as learning, focusing and memorization.
This postulation is supported by extensive clinical evidence suggesting that insufficient levels of magnesium in the body are associated with cognitive impairment.10Inna Slutsky , Nashat Abumaria, Long-Jun Wu, Chao Huang, Ling Zhang, Bo Li, Xiang Zhao, Arvind Govindarajan, Ming-Gao Zhao, Min Zhuo, Susumu Tonegawa, Guosong Liu, Enhancement of learning and memory by elevating brain magnesium, Neuron. 201011Jürgen Vormann, Magnesium: nutrition and metabolism, Mol Aspects Med. 2003
It is well known that different forms of magnesium can have different bioavailabilities; hence, a complex formulation consisting of various forms of elemental magnesium such as those found in Magnesium Breakthrough can significantly increase the likelihood of receiving all the cognitive benefits of magnesium.12Abdullah M. Al Alawi,corresponding author,Sandawana William Majoni, and Henrik Falhammar , Magnesium and Human Health: Perspectives and Research Directions, Int J Endocrinol. 201813Jan Philipp Schuchardt and Andreas Hahn, Intestinal Absorption and Factors Influencing Bioavailability of Magnesium-An Update, Curr Nutr Food Sci. 2017
Reishi
Promotes long-term focus and mental energy
Stimulate neurogenesis
Boosts immune system
Calm effects on central nervous system
Reishi is a medicinal mushroom with many therapeutic effects ranging from improved cardiac function to enhanced cognitive abilities.14Sissi Wachtel-Galor, John Yuen, John A. Buswell, and Iris F. F. Benzie, Chapter 9Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi or Reishi), CRC Press/Taylor & Francis. 2011
The most appealing feature of Reishi is its neurostimulating effect on intense cognitive processes such as memory building, concentration and studying.15Karen S Bishop , Chi H J Kao , Yuanye Xu , Marcus P Glucina , R Russell M Paterson, Lynnette R Ferguson, From 2000 years of Ganoderma lucidum to recent developments in nutraceuticals, Phytochemistry. 2015
Studies have demonstrated several positive cognitive effects such as improvement of mood, boost of focus, increase in clarity, ability to concentrate for long hours and ability to grasp concepts quickly among users of Reishi.16Najeeb Khatian & Muhammad Aslam, Effect of Ganoderma lucidum on memory and learning in mice, Clinical Phytoscience. 2019
Freshcap Mushrooms provide the highest percentage of beta glucans and fruiting body nutrients, making this mushroom product my preferred choice for Reishi.
Pros
- May help improve sleep quality and reduce stress levels
- Can be consumed in many different forms, such as capsules, powders, teas, and tinctures
- Used in Asia for centuries as a medicinal mushroom
Cons
- Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset and nausea
- Not recommended for people with autoimmune disease or taking immunosuppressive medication
Aniracetam
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
Aniracetam is a cousin of oxiracetam and is also a racetam. It works through a similar mechanism, but it does have a few distinctions.
Like oxiracetam, many people say that aniracetam is great for stimulated-but-controlled focus and memory. And, there are plenty of clinical studies to back this up.17Shirane M, Nakamura K. Aniracetam enhances cortical dopamine and serotonin release via cholinergic and glutamatergic mechanisms in SHRSP, Brain Res. 2001 18Ingvar M, et al. Enhancement by an ampakine of memory encoding in humans, Exp Neurol. 1997
It is also famous for elevating mood. Feeling an emotional boost could put you in a better headspace to crack open the books and get to work. Keep in mind this is not the manic high of a drug like Adderall, but a more gentle effect.
Aniracetam and oxiracetam are both great choices, but aniracetam might be better if you are looking for a mood boost as well.19Nakamura K, Tanaka Y.. Antidepressant-like effects of aniracetam in aged rats and its mode of action, Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2001
Citicoline
Increases attention and focus
Improves memory, mood, and dopamine levels
Combines well with cholinergic nootropics like racetams
This nootropic is an excellent, stimulation free source of energy for your hungry brain.
It is a form of choline, which is a crucial nutrient for overall brain health and cognition.
Citicoline is the perfect addition to your studying stack if you are going to use oxiracetam, aniracetam, or noopept.
Those nootropics can use up the choline stores in your brain, meaning it’s a good idea to supplement with an additional source.
The racetams can then turn it into acetylcholine, improving your focus and memory in the process.
Also, if your brain starts running low on choline, you run the risk of a headache. This pain is obviously something you DON’T want while studying for an important test.
We recommend always combining racetams with something like citicoline for this reason.
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
Noopept
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 very similar to the racetams listed above, in that it’s a synthetic nootropic that can improve studying through the acetylcholine system.
It also stimulates what’s called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF).
BDNF and NGF are the processes that grow and repair new neurons.
Building and repairing neurons is critical for maintaining the health of the brain and forming new memories.
By increasing these abilities, noopept can help you retain whatever you’re learning so you can recall it easier come exam time.
Noopept is also famous for its stimulating effects. It is one of the most potent nootropics out there, increasing the energy even in minimal doses.
Adrafinil
Increases energy and productivity
Helps to stay awake and focused over long periods of time
Prolongs sleep cycle so you can get a better night’s rest
Improves your overall mood
Adrafinil is an excellent alternative to Adderall if you are looking to stay up all night cramming.
This nootropic is actually a prodrug of the prescription drug Modafinil meaning that your body turns adrafinil into modafinil, but you do not need a prescription to buy it.
Adrafinil was initially created as an anti-narcoleptic drug to keep people up and alert for long periods.
This nootropic is used by militaries around the world to stay focused during taxing operations, and these effects can translate to studying for exams.
Adrafinil works by mildly stimulating your dopamine receptors (among others), although not nearly to the degree of Adderall.
This stimulation can give you an increase in focus and motivation while you study for long periods.
Adrafinil is legendary for its anti-fatigue effects, and it can help you power through a last-minute crunch.20Battleday RM, Brem AK. Modafinil for cognitive neuroenhancement in healthy non-sleep-deprived subjects: A systematic review, Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2015 21Milgram NW, et al. Oral administration of adrafinil improves discrimination learning in aged beagle dogs, Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2000 22Müller U, et al. Effects of modafinil on non-verbal cognition, task enjoyment, and creative thinking in healthy volunteers, Neuropharmacology. 2013
It is also pretty sustainable, without any serious crash to worry. Be mindful that it can cause insomnia in too high doses or taken too late at night.
Adrafinil has a relatively low side-effect profile for the most part.
Pros
- Adrafinil has been shown to improve working memory, executive function, and vigilance in healthy adults.
- In one study, adrafinil was found to be as effective as methylphenidate (Ritalin) at reducing ADHD symptoms.
- May also help to improve cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
- Can help you stay awake longer
Cons
- Most common side effects reported are headache, nausea, and anxiety.
- Adrafinil is a schedule IV controlled substance in Canada and is classified as a prescription drug.
- not currently approved by the FDA
Wrapping Up
As we’ve seen, these supplements can improve your ability to concentrate and retain information while you study. They also help the brain function more efficiently without any of the health risks that come with addiction or dependency on drugs like Adderall.
If you are considering using nootropics as a student, it is important to be aware of how they work in order to avoid potential side effects.
Comment below if you have used them before!
