When it comes to nootropics, improved memory is a common benefit. There are a wide variety of choices regarding memory enhancement. Depending on what you’d like to achieve, you can take various supplements for different aspects of memory. For example, you may want to target the way your brain forms memories, or you may want to target your ability to recall information. Nootropics are available for a variety of needs.
How Can I Improve My Memory?
The key component regarding improved memory is synaptic plasticity. Basically, this is how effective your brain is at building new brain connections, while maintaining the old connections. When your plasticity is improved, you are able to recall information and learn more effectively. So, how do you increase your plasticity?
Increase Levels of Acetylcholine
Acetylcholine is so important regarding memory. It is a neurotransmitter that helps with connections throughout the brain. These connections involve both neurons and synapses. When acetylcholine levels increase, plasticity improves. Not only do the best nootropics produce higher levels of acetylcholine, but they also break down acetylcholine at a much slower rate.
When it comes to acetylcholine production, racetams are most effective. These include; Piracetam, Oxiracetam, Aniracetam, Phenylpiracetam, and Pramiracetam. Racetams produce benefits on their own, but it is a great idea to take a choline supplement to create an effective stack. Acetylcholine relies on choline levels, so it’s highly beneficial that you take Alpha GPC or Citicoline.
Increase Glutamate Uptake
Glutamate is essential when focusing on the communication between neurons. This neurotransmitter also has an effect on plasticity. Once again, this will determine how easily you can form new connections, while recalling old memories. Too much glutamate can be toxic, but when taken in the right amounts, attention and memory improve. Ampakines are the best types of nootropics to increase glutamate levels.
Improve Oxygen Flow
Oxygen is essential for your brain to work effectively. When you have higher levels of oxygen, you will experience higher levels of brain energy. Oxygen reaches your brain via blood, improving your ability to perform mental tasks.
It is beneficial to find nootropics that will increase blood flow, ultimately increasing oxygen levels. Oxiracetam, Piracetam, and other racetams, have shown to increase blood flow.
What Are the Best Nootropics for Memory?
As mentioned, racetams are known to improve memory. If experienced, it is a great idea to create a nootropic stack. Choline supplements are always a great option to take with racetams. If you’re a beginner, you can purchase pre-stacked capsules. There are many nootropics available, the following are some of the best options.
L-Theanine + Caffeine
This is a great stack, especially for beginners. Caffeine on its own is actually not the best cognitive enhancer. When caffeine is taken with L-Theanine, benefits are longer lasting and stronger. It has been found that this combination helps to increase working memory, while increasing visual processing and reducing distractibility.
L-Theanine crosses the blood-brain barrier, combatting the negative effects associated with caffeine (e.g. increased anxiety). Generally, this stack is taken in a 2:1 ratio. Begin with 50 mg of coffee (approximately one cup of coffee), and 100 mg of L-Theanine. Although L-Theanine is found in green tea, you will not consume enough by drinking it. You will need to order a L-Theanine supplement.
Piracetam + Choline
This combination is highly popular, as they work well together regarding acetylcholine. As mentioned, acetylcholine is essential for memory and other cognitive abilities. Piracetam boosts acetylcholine levels, while choline is the precursor for acetylcholine synthesis.
When taken together, not only do you improve spatial memory, but you reduce the risk of headaches. You can take equal doses of each to experience positive benefits. Many users will take approximately 300 mg of each, three times daily.
Lifestyle Changes
Although nootropics help enhance memory, your lifestyle also plays a vital role. The diet you follow plays a large role in your mental health. It is important to consume a nutrient-rich diet, high in healthy fats and protein.
It has been found that eating foods that are high in omega-fats, help maintain a healthy brain. It is important to eat a lot of fish, nuts, seeds, and healthy oils (e.g. olive oil). You should also eat items that are packed with antioxidants. Fruits and vegetables provide a wide variety of vitamins and nutrients, so try and consume a variety of colours.
Exercise is important, as well as getting enough sleep. High stress levels are not only hard on your mental health, but your overall well-being. There are a number of nootropics that help decrease stress and anxiety. L-Theanine for instance, is great for calming the mind and increasing relaxation. This is highly beneficial for your brain health, in turn improving your memory.
Who Is Using Nootropics to Improve Memory?
Many nootropics were developed to treat various disorders and conditions. Alzheimer’s for instance, has been targeted through various ‘smart drugs.’ Due to the benefits that are experienced regarding memory, research is continually being conducted.
With that being said, more and more casual users are surfacing. Many individuals are experiencing the benefits that nootropics bring. So, who’s using these cognitive enhancers?
College Students
‘Study drugs’ are becoming increasingly popular amongst the college crowd. Learning abilities are improved, and memory recall is strengthened. Adderall is still very popular, but various nootropics provide the same memory enhancing benefits, without the risks and associated side-effects. Although some nootropics require a prescription, most nootropics can be purchased online.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Patients
As mentioned, Alzheimer’s and Dementia patients have used nootropics for an extended period of time. As we age, our brain begins to age as well. It is important to maintain your brain health, while targeting areas that are not working as efficiently.
Racetams for instance, target the acetylcholine receptors in our brain. It is believed that there’s a direct link to Alzheimer’s and these acetylcholine receptors. If they’re not functioning properly, complications arise. Increased acetylcholine, improves one’s memory. Although it is not a cure, nootropics may help to reduce various symptoms. Noopept for example, has yielded some great results regarding Alzheimer’s symptoms.
