11 Best Nootropics For Brain Fog

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Key Information

Brain fog is a common but vague symptom

Brain fog is not a medical condition, but a term used to describe a cluster of mental fatigue symptoms, such as poor memory, lack of focus, and confusion.

Brain fog can have many causes

Brain fog can be triggered by various factors, such as gut health, blood sugar, inflammation, stress, hormones, chronic disease, and mental disorders.

Brain fog can be improved with holistic approaches

Brain fog can be alleviated by addressing the underlying causes and implementing a healthy lifestyle, such as eating nutrient-dense foods, exercising regularly, practicing mindfulness, and reducing stress.

Nootropics can help with brain fog

Nootropics are supplements that enhance cognitive function, such as memory, focus, mood, and creativity.

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

“Brain fog” is something that everyone will deal with at some point.

While it’s not classified as an official medical condition, it is quite prevalent in the western world.

With the ebbs and flows of life, it’s completely normal to have days where you feel “off.”

Maybe you had a poor night of sleep, or had a few drinks the night before, or are just feeling burnt out.

We all know that feeling of waking up and just feeling “not all there.”

However, for many people, this is a more chronic condition, and it may be a sign of more serious issues.

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11 Best Nootropics for Brain Fog – Quick List

Mind Lab Pro #1

Mind Lab Pro

Science-backed nutrition for your brain
5
Learn MoreBuy 3 bottles, get 1 free with our links
Magnesium Breakthrough #2

Magnesium Breakthrough

#1 Magnesium Product
4.8
Learn MoreUse code: HOLISTICNOOTROPICS to save 10%
Blood Sugar Breakthrough by Bioptimizers #3

Blood Sugar Breakthrough by Bioptimizers

#1 Blood Sugar Support Supplement
4.9
Learn MoreSave add’l 10% w. code HOLISTICNOOTROPICS @ checkout
Qualia Mind by Neurohacker #4

Qualia Mind by Neurohacker

Most Nootropics Per Serving
Alpha Brain by Onnit #5

Alpha Brain by Onnit

Try it Now – Free 15 Day Trial
4.5
Learn MoreLimited time offer: Free 15 day trial
Chaga Capsules by Real Mushrooms #6

Chaga Capsules by Real Mushrooms

Improve digestion & detoxify your body
Lion's Mane Mushrooms #7

Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

Brain Enhancing Superfood
Adrafinil Powder by Nootropics Unlimited #8

Adrafinil Powder by Nootropics Unlimited

Over-the-counter version of Modafinil
4.5
Learn MoreSave 15% w. code “HolisticNootropics”
L-Theanine by Nootropics Depot #9

L-Theanine by Nootropics Depot

The all-natural "chill pill"
Alpha-GPC by Nootropics Depot #10

Alpha-GPC by Nootropics Depot

Boost acetylcholine in the brain
4
Learn MoreGet 5% off entire order w/ code HOLISTICNOOTROPICS
Huperzine A #11

Huperzine A

Natural Nootropic For Alzheimer's/Dementia

Brain Fog Symptoms

Nootropics For Brain Fog
“Brain fog” isn’t a “real” medical condition, but we all know it when we feel it.

Brain fog is a type of mental fatigue characterized by:1Amanda J Ross, Marvin S Medow, Peter C Rowe, Julian M Stewart. What is brain fog? An evaluation of the symptom in postural tachycardia syndromeClin Auton Res. 2013

  • Slow thinking
  • Poor memory
  • Inability to focus
  • General lack of mental clarity
  • Feeling cloudy
  • Difficulty finding the right words and communicating
  • Exhaustion
  • Mind goes blank
  • Easily distracted
  • Confusion
  • Easily annoyed
  • Sleepy
  • Lost
  • Detached

Brain Fog Causes

The biggest issue with treating brain fog is that it’s a fairly broad term with many factors at play.

There can be a number of causes of brain fog which include:

  • Gut health
  • Heavy metal or chemical toxicity
  • HPA Axis and stress
  • Blood sugar
  • Chronic inflammation
  • Mental disorders
  • Hormones
  • Obesity
  • Chronic Disease

It goes to show that treating brain fog may require more than just treating the symptom.

The symptom of brain fog could be your body telling you that a bigger problem needs to be addressed.

You may have to dig a few levels deeper to correct this problem truly.

Chronic Disease Associated with Brain Fog

There are also several chronic medical conditions and autoimmune diseases associated with symptoms of brain fog.

These include:

  • Chronic fatigue syndrome

While each of these disorders have specific presentations they can all be traced back to chronic inflammation.2Lihua Duan, Xiaoquan Rao, and Keshav Raj Sigdel. Regulation of Inflammation in Autoimmune Disease, J Immunol Res. 2019

Brain Fog, Anxiety, and Depression

One of the major problems with brain fog having so many possible causes is that it often is diagnosed as a more severe mental condition like anxiety and depression.

This leads to patients using psychiatric drugs like anti-depressants and anxiolytics to treat a problem that may be rooted in a physiological disorder.

brain fog

While the psychotropic drugs may help you get over the hump initially, many of these drugs are being used long-term and have several side effects.

Oddly enough, one of the many side effects could be brain fog.3Tom Stockmann. What it was like to stop an antidepressant Ther Adv Psychopharmacol. 2019

Can You Cure Brain Fog?

Because brain fog isn’t an actual disorder but more a symptom of a bigger problem, you can’t really cure it.

The problem with trying to cure brain fog is you end up using drugs and products that only focus on the symptom instead of treating the underlying disorder.

Not only does this not help the brain fog, but it may also lead to more problems.

Implementing a holistic protocol that targets inflammation by improving diet and lifestyle factors is the most effective approach.

This includes adding in more stuff and avoiding the bad stuff.

Good stuff includes:

  • Eating more nutrient-dense, whole foods
  • Regular exercise and movement
  • Mindfulness practices
  • Stress reduction
  • Good relationships and community
  • High-quality supplements and nootropics
  • Deep, restful sleep

Bad stuff:

  • Processed food
  • Refined sugar, high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners
  • Environmental chemicals and heavy metals
  • Mold
  • Stress

Nootropics For Brain Fog

Using nootropic supplements as part of a holistic protocol involving the above-mentioned good stuff is a great tool.

Because there are so many different kinds of nootropics, it’s important to know what you need and why you need it.

Some nootropics are stimulating while some are sedating.  Some are good for memory and learning, while others are good for stress reduction.  Some do a combination of all these things.

It’s also important to honor your body’s bio-individual needs.  This means being mindful of the fact that what worked for one person might not work for you.

Nootropics could be ineffective due to genetics, gut health, stress levels, among many other reasons.

You must use nootropics responsibly by constantly monitoring your progress with a journal or health tracker.

Some nootropics are great when paired together, but it’s important not to overdo it and make a targeted plan.

Always consult your physician before making any dietary changes.

Best Nootropic Supplements For Brain Fog

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
  • Boosts mental energy for better focus

  • Improves memory and recall

  • Gets rid of brain fog

  • No harmful ingredients

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.

Mind Lab Pro is a top choice for improving brain fog.

The mix of nootropic and adaptogenic ingredients lower inflammation while boosting mental energy.

You also get the added benefit of B vitamins and phosphatidylserine for added stress support.

The supplements themselves are 3rd party tested and free of excess fillers and toxic ingredients.

I love this stack for nootropic newbies and experienced nootropic users alike.


#1 Magnesium Product

Magnesium Breakthrough

Magnesium Breakthrough
Shop NowUse code: HOLISTICNOOTROPICS to save 10%
Shop NowUse code: HOLISTICNOOTROPICS to save 10%
  • Provides cognitive benefits to help with focus and clarity

  • Helps with mental u0022fogu0022 to improve memory retention

  • Promotes an improved mood due to less brain fatigue

  • Reduces the risk of stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and other chronic illness

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

u003cpu003eClouding of consciousness, also more commonly referred to as brain fog or mental fog is medically coined as a state of subsyndromal delirium and it is often characterized by a cluster of symptoms such as inattention, cognitive delays, and comprehension abnormalities.1Anna E. Kirkland, Gabrielle L. Sarlo,1 and Kathleen F. Holton, The Role of Magnesium in Neurological Disorders, Nutrients. 2018u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eThere is some recent data that suggest a positive effect of magnesium in the management of subsyndromal delirium, based on the clinical evidence that people with depleted levels of magnesium are more likely to experience symptoms of clouded consciousness.2Magdalena D. Cuciureanu and Robert Vink., Magnesium and stress, University of Adelaide Press. 2011u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eHowever, it is an emerging research topic and more prospective studies are required to clearly understand the use of magnesium in managing symptoms of brain fog.rnMagnesium Breakthrough contains an exclusive variant of magnesium, i.e., magnesium L-threonate, it has been found to have the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and help manage symptoms of clouded consciousness.u003c/pu003e


#1 Blood Sugar Support Supplement

Blood Sugar Breakthrough by Bioptimizers

Blood Sugar Breakthrough by Bioptimizers
Shop NowSave add’l 10% w. code HOLISTICNOOTROPICS @ checkout
Shop NowSave add’l 10% w. code HOLISTICNOOTROPICS @ checkout
  • Reduces brain fog by balancing glucose

  • Promotes mental clarity and focus

  • Stimulates energy levels for better concentration

  • Decreases cravings with reduced appetite

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
  • Produced by BiOptimizers, one of the most trusted names in the Supplement Industry

Cons

  • Can be a bit pricey
  • Encapsulation includes magnesium stearate, and silicon dioxide (not toxic at low levels, but not 100% clean)

u003cpu003eUnderstanding the connection between brain fog and metabolism is absolutely crucial.u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eA hyperglycemic state induces oxidative stress on the body which is associated with mild to moderate cognitive impairment, psychomotor slowing and reduced mental flexibility.3María Muriach, Miguel Flores-Bellver, Francisco J. Romero, and Jorge M. Barcia, u003ca href=u0022https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4158559/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eDiabetes and the Brain: Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Autophagyu003c/au003e, Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2014u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eThe early stages of cognitive impairment can be manifested as clouding of consciousness, otherwise known as brain fog.4Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2016, u003ca href=u0022https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4837888/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eImpact of diabetes on cognitive function and brain structureu003c/au003e, A Moheet, S Mangia, and ER Seaquist5Seth Stoykovich , Kelly Gibas, u003ca href=u0022https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30923733/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eAPOE ε4, the door to insulin-resistant dyslipidemia and brain fog? A case studyu003c/au003e, Alzheimers Dement (Amst). 2019u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eBlood Sugar Breakthrough is an effective formulation for managing blood glucose levels as it includes ingredients that reduce glucose-associated oxidative stress on the body.u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eThis is especially important for neural cells, blood vessels and endocrine islets.u003c/pu003e


Most Nootropics Per Serving

Qualia Mind by Neurohacker

  • Stimulation without the jitters

  • Increased mental clarity, focus, and mood

  • Supports memory by enhancing cholinergic pathways in the brain

  • Decaffeinated or caffeinated for all-day support

Pros

  • Most advanced nootropic formula on the market
  • All-natural ingredients
  • Clean formula: No toxic fillers or necessary preservatives
  • Many positive user testimonials
  • Option for less potent Qualia Focus Available
  • Over 50% off 1st Bottle
  • Use “15INSAVINGS” For Additional 15% Off

Cons

  • Large dose of 7 pills
  • More expensive than most other nootropics
  • More ingredients not always better.

u003cpu003eBreaking through brain fog is one of the top features of Qualia Mind’s comprehensive formula.u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eThe included 28 ingredients, including nootropic compounds, neuro-vitamins, amino acids, choline donors, and herbal adaptogens, give your brain a jolt and increase mental clarity.u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eYou can even choose between a caffeinated or decaffeinated version.u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eThis stack is great for more experienced biohackers or anyone who needs a significant boost in brainpower.u003c/pu003e


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.


Improve digestion & detoxify your body

Chaga Capsules by Real Mushrooms

  • A solution for foggy-headedness and brain fog

  • Helps to support mental health by boosting immunity and improving metabolic activity

  • Helps to combat cognitive impairment, psychomotor slackening, and reduced mental flexibility.

Pros

  • Real Mushrooms produce the highest quality mushrooms from mostly fruiting body
  • Over 40 years experience in medicinal mushrooms
  • No added starch, mycelium, or grain of any kind
  • Made from Certified Organic Chaga
  • All mushrooms are 3rd Party tested

Cons

  • Can cause gut distress is some users

u003cpu003eChaga mushroom is highly recommended as a natural remedy to brain fog.6Honghai Hu Zhenya Zhang Zhongfang Lei Yingnan Yang Norio Sugiura, u003ca href=u0022https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1389172308000534u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eComparative study of antioxidant activity and antiproliferative effect of hot water and ethanol extracts from the mushroom Inonotus obliquusu003c/au003e, Journal of Bioscience and Bioengineering. 2009u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003e This therapeutic mushroom has been found to be beneficial for optimizing the mind-body connection, by stabilizing innate immunity, which when left unchecked lead to the physical inflammation that causes brain fog..7Yoo Kyoung Park , Hyang Burm Lee, Eun-Jae Jeon, Hack Sung Jung, Myung-Hee Kang, u003ca href=u0022https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15630179/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eChaga mushroom extract inhibits oxidative DNA damage in human lymphocytes as assessed by comet assayu003c/au003e, Biofactors. 2004u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eChaga also supports mental health by improving blood sugar metabolism.8Zhiguo Li, Junjie Mei, Liping Jiang, Chengyan Geng , Qiujuan Li, Xiaofeng Yao , Jun Cao , u003ca href=u0022https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31679230/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eChaga Medicinal Mushroom, Inonotus obliquus (Agaricomycetes) Polysaccharides Suppress Tacrine-induced Apoptosis by ROS-scavenging and Mitochondrial Pathway in HepG2 Cellsu003c/au003e, Int J Med Mushrooms. 2019 u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003e Improving your metabolism can help lower oxidative stress that causes cognitive impairment, psychomotor slackening and reduced mental flexibility.9You-Min Ying , Lin-Yan Zhang , Xia Zhang , Hai-Bo Bai , Dong-E Liang , Lie-Feng Ma , Wei-Guang Shan , Zha-Jun Zhan, u003ca href=u0022https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25446238/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eTerpenoids with alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity from the submerged culture of Inonotus obliquusu003c/au003e, Phytochemistry. 2014u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eBy boosting immunity and blood glucose metabolism, Chaga acts as a potent combatant against brain fog.10You-Min Ying , Lin-Yan Zhang , Xia Zhang , Hai-Bo Bai , Dong-E Liang , Lie-Feng Ma , Wei-Guang Shan , Zha-Jun Zhan, u003ca href=u0022https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25446238/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eTerpenoids with alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity from the submerged culture of Inonotus obliquusu003c/au003e, Phytochemistry. 2014u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eFreshcap Mushrooms provide the highest percentage of beta glucans and fruiting body nutrients, making this mushroom product my preferred choice for Chaga.u003c/pu003e


Brain Enhancing Superfood

Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

4.8
  • Promotes higher cognitive function

  • Has benefits for both the body and mind

  • Reduces anxiety, depression, and reduces stress

  • Increases memory retention

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

u003cpu003eLion’s Mane (Hericium Erinaceus) is a therapeutic mushroom which has been found to benefit all primary components of your central nervous system including the brain, nerve cells and also the immune system.11Vikineswary Sabaratnam , Wong Kah-Hui , Murali Naidu , Pamela Rosie David, u003ca href=u0022https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24716157/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eNeuronal health – can culinary and medicinal mushrooms help?u003c/au003e, J Tradit Complement Med. 2013u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eThis mushroom also prevents nerve cell impairment and stimulates production of enzymes that release Nerve Growth Factor (NGF).12Pit Shan Chong , Man-Lung Fung , Kah Hui Wong, Lee Wei Lim, u003ca href=u0022https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31881712/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eTherapeutic Potential of Hericium erinaceus for Depressive Disorderu003c/au003e, Int J Mol Sci. 2019u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eThis growth factor helps with neuronal regeneration and hence, memory retention.u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eAddition of this medicinal mushroom into your routine diet will not only help you to restore and recall old memories but it will also help you to promote mental alertness, improve focus, and eliminate brain fog.13Kah-Hui Wong , Gowri Kanagasabapathy , Murali Naidu , Pamela David , Vikineswary Sabaratnam, u003ca href=u0022https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25159861/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eHericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers., a medicinal mushroom, activates peripheral nerve regenerationu003c/au003e, Chin J Integr Med. 2016u003c/pu003ernu003cpu003eFreshcap Mushrooms provide the highest percentage of beta glucans and fruiting body nutrients, making this mushroom product my preferred choice for Lion’s Mane.u003c/pu003e


Over-the-counter version of Modafinil

Adrafinil Powder by Nootropics Unlimited

4.5
Adrafinil Powder by Nootropics Unlimited
Buy From Nootropics UnlimitedSave 15% w. code “HolisticNootropics”
Buy From Nootropics UnlimitedSave 15% w. code “HolisticNootropics”
  • Improve mental clarity and a variety of intense situations

  • Increase focus

  • Relieve stress

  • Boost mood

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

u003cpu003eu003ca href=u0022https://holisticnootropics.com/adrafinil/u0022u003eAdrafinilu003c/au003e is a prodrug for the legendary smart drug modafinil. What this means is that your body naturally turns adrafinil into modafinil, and you do not need a prescription to buy it.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eWhen adrafinil metabolizes into modafinil in your body and starts to kick in, it has a mildly stimulating effect.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eAlthough researchers are not totally sure how it works yet, we do know that it modulates several brain systems, such as dopamine, GABA, and histamines, to achieve its effects.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eIt was developed initially as an anti-narcolepsy drug and can keep you focused and engaged under adverse conditions. Militaries around the world use this drug during extended, stressful operations.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eWe think that adrafinil is one of the best bets for improving mental clarity, especially if your brain fog is due to lack of sleep, overwork, and stress. Although it’s not a long term substitute for getting proper rest, it can help you stay sharp short term during crunch time.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eMany users report improved mood, more energy, and better ability to concentrate, even in less-than-ideal conditions. And there is significant clinical evidence it can improve performance while fatigued.14Ping Sheng, et al. u003ca href=u0022https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3849275/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eEfficacy of Modafinil on Fatigue and Excessive Daytime Sleepiness Associated with Neurological Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis,u003c/au003e PLoS One. 2013 u003c/pu003e


The all-natural “chill pill”

L-Theanine by Nootropics Depot

  • Increases focus, concentration, and cognitive ability without the grogginess that comes with other stimulants

  • Combines well with caffeine to promote mental clarity

  • Can be used as a natural way to fight stress and anxiety

  • Clinical trials show it can improve moods

u003cpu003eu003ca href=u0022https://holisticnootropics.com/l-theanine/u0022u003eL-theanineu003c/au003e is an amino acid that comes from tea leaves. It’s largely responsible for tea’s relaxed-but-focused energy. And, you can buy it on its own as a supplement.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eIt stacks extremely well with caffeine, and this combo is one of the classic nootropic stacks for fighting brain fog.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eThere are clinical studies that show this nootropic can improve focus and concentration, as well as reduce stress.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eIt seems to work by promoting GABA production, which is considered a “calming” neurotransmitter.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eIt does this without causing sleepiness or grogginess, which you do not want if you are already suffering from brain fog.15Anna C Nobre, eta al. u003ca href=u0022http://apjcn.nhri.org.tw/server/APJCN/17%20Suppl%201/167.pdfu0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eL-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state,u003c/au003e Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008 16Kenta Kimura, et al. u003ca href=u0022https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0301051106001451?via%3Dihubu0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003el-Theanine reduces psychological and physiological stress responses,u003c/au003e Biological Psychology, 2007 L-theanine and caffeine together are some of the go-to’s for cutting through mental fatigue.u003c/pu003e


Boost acetylcholine in the brain

Alpha-GPC by Nootropics Depot

Alpha-GPC by Nootropics Depot
Check PriceGet 5% off entire order w/ code HOLISTICNOOTROPICS
Check PriceGet 5% off entire order w/ code HOLISTICNOOTROPICS
  • Increases levels of acetylcholine, which increases the speed that your nervous system communicates

  • Superior to caffeine in mental performance

  • No side effects

u003cpu003eu003ca href=u0022https://holisticnootropics.com/alpha-gpc/u0022u003eThis nootropicu003c/au003e is a concentrated form of the nutrient choline, and it has proven benefits for brain fog.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eCholine is the precursor to acetylcholine (ACh), which is the most abundant neurotransmitter in the brain.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eBy increasing ACh levels, you can improve the speed that your nervous system communicates.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eThis process can have big benefits for your mental performance. In both human and animal trials, the subjects that took u003ca href=u0022https://holisticnootropics.com/alpha-gpc/u0022u003eAlpha GPCu003c/au003e scored better on cognitive tests.17Schettini G, et al. u003ca href=u0022https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1409797u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eMolecular mechanisms mediating the effects of L-alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, a new cognition-enhancing drug, on behavioral and biochemical parameters in young and aged rats,u003c/au003e Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 1992 18Parnetti L1, Amenta F, Gallai V. u003ca href=u0022https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11589921u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eCholine alphoscerate in cognitive decline and in acute cerebrovascular disease: an analysis of published clinical data,u003c/au003e Mech Ageing Dev. 2001 19Canal N, et al. u003ca href=u0022https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2071257u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eEffect of L-alpha-glyceryl-phosphorylcholine on amnesia caused by scopolamine,u003c/au003e Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol. 1991 u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eIt also has virtually zero side-effects and is not a stimulant. If you are having trouble with memory or fuzzy thinking, Alpha GPC could help get you back in the game.u003c/pu003e


Natural Nootropic For Alzheimer’s/Dementia

Huperzine A

  • All-natural, herbal remedy for brain fog

  • Indirectly increases acetylcholine levels in the brain which improves memory and cognition

  • Many people report a boost in energy

Pros

  • Can improve cognitive function and memory
  • Effective in treating Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia
  • May prevent muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis
  • Protect against neuronal cell death and reduce inflammation in the brain

Cons

  • Can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, body weakness, sweating, and blurred vision
  • Can interact with other medications, so it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking this supplement

u003cpu003eu003ca href=u0022https://holisticnootropics.com/huperzine-a/u0022u003eHuperzine Au003c/au003e is an all-natural herbal remedy for brain fog that works similarly to Alpha GPC.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eIt inhibits acetylcholinesterase, which is the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eSo, it indirectly increases ACh levels in the brain, which can improve overall cognition.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eThis process can help clear up your brain, as well as improve your memory.u003c/pu003ernrnu003cpu003eMany people report a boost in energy after taking this nootropic, but without the crash associated with stimulants.20Sun Quing-qui, et al. u003ca href=u0022http://www.chinaphar.com/article/view/7802/8893u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eHuperzine-A capsules enhance memory and learning performance u003c/au003eu003ca href=u0022http://www.chinaphar.com/article/view/7802/8893u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003ein 34 pairs of matched adolescent students,u003c/au003e Acta Pharma Sun. 1999 21Wang BS, et al. u003ca href=u0022https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19221692u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noopener noreferreru0022u003eEfficacy and safety of natural acetylcholinesterase inhibitor huperzine A in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease: an updated meta-analysis,u003c/au003e J Neural Transm (Vienna). 2009 u003c/pu003e


Wrapping Up

While nootropics and supplements can help eliminate brain fog, we always recommend seeking professional help if your symptoms persist.

Do you experience brain fog? Let us know how you are coping in the comments below.


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.

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