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What is Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid, that means it’s a fatty substance that also has a phosphate group in its molecule. It occurs naturally in the body and plays a key role in maintaining the structure of cell membranes, especially in the brain.(1)  

It’s one of a group of compounds called phospholipids, these help build and support the protective layers surrounding cells. PS is particularly concentrated within the brain where it plays a key role in supporting healthy communication between brain cells. cell signalling, and also membrane fluidity.(2) 

Because PS levels are thought to decrease with age, there is interest in including it in food supplements that support cognitive wellbeing and daily mental performance. 

The science

There have been a number of studies of Phosphatidylserine which have looked at its potential to support brain function in both younger and older adults. Some of these studies have examined its effect on mental performance during cognitive exercises, and others have explored its potential role in helping people to maintain focus and attention whilst in specific groups.(3,4)

In further studies, focus has been on the impact of PS on people’s responses to stress - particularly in the area of cortisol regulation. There is more ongoing research continuing into its broader role in age-related brain health.(5)

Conclusion

Phosphatidylserine is a naturally occurring compound which supports the structure of brain cells and their communication. It’s widely used in supplements aimed at supporting mental clarity, memory, and resilience in situations which might be demanding or high-pressure.

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What is l-tyrosine

L-Tyrosine is an important amino acid which is found in several high protein foods and it can also be made within the body from another amino acid, L-Phenylalanine. 

L-Tyrosine helps with the production of the compounds dopamine and norepinephrine. These are used in the brain and nervous system signalling pathways.(1) In particular, dopamine is known to play a key role in mood and motivation. There have been a number of research projects conducted on L-Tyrosine looking at its role in dopamine synthesis and examining the potential contribution it makes to people’s mental alertness. 

Because of its role in biochemical processes, L-Tyrosine is a popular ingredient in dietary supplements formulated to support wellbeing and mental performance, particularly in those situations which might involve cognitive challenges or physical stress. 

The science

There has been research on L-Tyrosine which examines its role in supporting mental performance where there is stress or other demanding situations. (2) Some studies have indicated that there were notable possible improvements in working memory and mental flexibility when individuals were exposed to stress factors such as required multitasking or prolonged wakefullness.(3,4)

Conclusion

There has been a lot of research on the L-Tyrosine amino acid that shows it plays a biological role in the body’s production of neurotransmitters. It is a widely accepted and popular addition to food supplements which have been formulated to support people in areas of alertness, mental performance and focus during busy periods or stressful days.

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What is l-Phenylalanine

Essential amino acids like l-Phenylalanine are not produced by the body on its own and must be obtained from high protein dietary sources. It is found in dairy, meat, fish and eggs. It can also be obtained in dietary supplements.

L-Phenylalanine is used by the body to synthesise L-Tyrosine, and this in turn helps with the production of dopamine and norepinephrine - these compounds are involved in the brain’s signalling pathways. (1) Due to this important biological role, it is sometimes included in supplements intended to support general wellbeing and focus. (2)

L-Phenylalanine has also been researched for its contributory role in modulating mood-related neurochemistry.(3)

The science 

Some early clinical studies have evaluated Phenylalanine’s effects in mood-related contexts and its potential contribution to cognitive performance.(4) In particular, its biological role in neurotransmitter synthesis has been a point of interest in research related to attention, memory, and emotional balance. However, these findings are not conclusive and further studies are warranted.

Conclusion

As a fundamental building block in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, L-Phenylalanine continues to be studied for its possible effects on mental and emotional wellbeing. It remains a commonly used ingredient in supplements designed to support a clear and focused mindset.

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What is N-Acetyl L-Carnitine? 

ALCAR is unusual in that it is able to cross the blood–brain barrier and increase levels of carnitine already present in the brain. This additional carnitine can then support energy metabolism by improving how efficiently the brain’s cells can generate energy. It is especially active for those areas of the brain which are responsible for attention, learning, and memory. 

ALCAR is involved with the production of acetylcholine which is a neurotransmitter that is involved in cognitive processes like memory, decision-making, and learning. It also plays an important role in maintaining healthy mitochondria, these are the energy powerhouses of cells, and this may support the body's ability to manage oxidative stress caused by daily pressures and demands. 

Researchers are also interested in ALCAR as it has the potential to support neural plasticity and the function of nerve cells in the central nervous system, which are areas that are often explored by researchers in connection with focus, resilience, and emotional regulation. 

The science

N-Acetyl L-Carnitine research projects have looked at its contribution to mental performance and cognitive health. Some studies have explored it in relation to attention, learning and the impact of stress on the nervous system. The role it has in the production of mitochondrial energy has also been examined as a potential factor in supporting healthy brain ageing.

Conclusion

N-Acetyl L-Carnitine is a nutrient naturally found in the body that supports cellular energy production and contributes to neurotransmitter function. It is often included in those food supplements designed for mental performance, especially where energy, focus, and resilience are key.

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What is Bacopa Monnieri  

Bacopa is a small creeping plant native to the Asian wetlands. It is also known as Brahmi and has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. It has been used in wellness rituals for centuries and in more recent times has been explored in scientific research for its potential role in supporting mental performance and wellbeing.

Bacopa contains a class of compounds called bacosides, as well as other plant compounds like alkaloids and saponins.(1) These are naturally occurring compounds and are a focus of interest in the development of food supplements that often chosen by individuals looking to support cognitive and brain health. Bacopa is used by a wide range of people, from students to busy professionals, to older adults. Early research has been promising and more studies are being conducted to fully understand its impact on personal performance and individual effectiveness. (2) 

The science 

Preliminary research has examined the potential effects of Bacopa monnieri on aspects such as memory, information processing, and mood balance. Some initial clinical studies have shown that Bacopa extracts may contribute to improved subjective memory and reduced perceived stress in the studied populations. (5)

Conclusion

Bacopa monnieri is a naturally occurring botanical ingredient with a long tradition of use, it is often found in supplements aimed at mental performance and supporting people under stress. It is of growing scientific interest with current ongoing research exploring its potential.(6,7,8)

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What is Ginkgo

Ginkgo is a deciduous tree so ancient that it is commonly known as a “living fossil”; it is the last remaining species of a primitive family of plants. Ginkgo has a long history of use in Chinese medicine. (1) 

Currently, there are different forms of Ginkgo biloba available in the market, including extracts and isolated compounds such as terpenoids, flavonoids, bioflavonoids, and organic acids. (2) 

Dietary supplements promoted for brain health and enhanced cognitive performance are widely available. Claims made for these products are directed not only to the elderly wishing to prevent or mitigate cognitive decline, but also young healthy populations looking to boost their cognitive performance (3), although, more studies are needed to fully understand the potential positive effects of taking Ginkgo Biloba supplements. 

The science 

Ginkgo biloba has two primary active ingredients at varying concentrations: terpene lactones (which most notably include ginkgolides and diterpenes) and ginkgo flavone glycosides (which most notably containginkgetin, bilobetin, and sciadopitysin). (4)

Claiming cognitive support 

A 52-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, multicenter study of 309 patients in 1997 concluded it appeared to stabilize and improve the cognitive performance.4 

In another study conducted on sixty-six healthy volunteers where the effects of a Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® were compared against placebo, based on results of primary outcomes, positive effect of EGb 761® on self-estimated mental health as well as on self-estimated quality of life could be assumed. (5)

Conclusion

Ginkgo Biloba is an ingredient used in nutrition for many years, with studied potential benefits related to cognitive performance, and mental well-being.  

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What is Lactobacillus rhamnosus

Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a beneficial gram positive bacteria naturally found in the human digestive tract. It is part of the broader family of probiotics, which are live microorganisms needed to help maintain a healthy balance of gut flora. There are many thousands of different microorganisms in the gut and they contribute to the overall balance, lactobacillus rhamnosus is one of the most important and best understood ones. 

In recent years, interest has grown around the gut-brain axis - the communication link between your digestive system and brain. Lactobacillus rhamnosus has been studied for its role within this system and is a popular choice in supplements designed for digestive support, mental clarity and stress resilience. (1)

The science 

Scientific research has long been aware of lactobacillus rhamnosus as a crucial part of our digestive system. Recent research into the support it may provide for cognitive health and emotional wellbeing via its interaction with the gut microbiota has indicated fascinating new insights on how this strain might influence the gut-brain connection, particularly in relation to stress, memory, and inflammation. (2)

Conclusion

Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a well-researched probiotic strain that plays a role in supporting a balanced microbiome. It continues to be studied for its exciting potential impact on digestion, immune resilience, and mental wellbeing via the gut-brain axis.

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What is Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral that supports hundreds of functions in the body, including muscle contraction, energy production and the normal functioning of the human nervous system. (1)

It can be found in a range of foods particularly seeds and nuts and also those which tend to be rich in fibre and green pigment (the plant’s chlorophyl), plus some oily fish. 

Magnesium is very important because it is used for so many of the natural processes in the body. It contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system, including processes that involve neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. It is frequently included in supplements designed to support the nervous system, with users aiming for mental clarity, energy balance, and stress resilience. (2)

The science 

Magnesium has been widely researched for some time due to its variety of applications in the human body. It has also been closely studied for its potential impact on focus, attention, mood regulation and sleep. Research has explored the connection that it has to the brain neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps promote calmness and supports the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. (3)

Some studies have indicated that magnesium levels have been noted as lower in individuals with certain attention-related characteristics, though it is not clear whether this is a cause or consequence. (4)

Conclusion

Magnesium is a widely used mineral within the body with well-established roles in energy, stress support, and nervous system health. It is a staple in supplements designed for people seeking better focus, calm, and clarity in high-demand situations.

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What is Chromium

Chromium contributes to normal glucose metabolism (1) and is an essential support that helps the body’s metabolism to use carbohydrates, fats and proteins, this is key for energy support.

The brain relies on a consistent supply of glucose to function properly. Consequently, chromium has been studied by researchers for its potential role in maintaining stable energy levels, attention capabilities and mental performance.

The science 

Some research projects have explored whether chromium supplements may have an influence on insulin sensitivity, the delivery of glucose to the brain, and neurotransmitter activity, including those which are linked to mood and focus, such as serotonin and dopamine. (2) 

Research is ongoing and results are varied, but chromium is vital for health and remains a mineral of great interest for cognitive nutrition and energy balance. (3)

Conclusion

Chromium plays an essential role in supporting energy metabolism and has been studied in relation to cognitive clarity and emotional wellbeing. It is a popular addition to supplements formulated for stable energy and mood support.

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What is Zinc

Zinc is a mineral found in cells throughout the body, it is an essential and natural part of the body’s metabolism. It has especially important functions in the brain and nervous system. (1)

Zinc is present is high concentrations in the brain, it's been studied for it's involvement in the development and maintenance of brain cells themselves. Zinc contributes to the synaptic signalling that takes place between brain cells, in other words the way brain cells pass information to each other. It also contributes to the normal functioning of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. (2)

The science  

Researchers have examined the role zinc has in mood, attention and learning. There is particular interest in connection to its influence on brain chemistry and oxidative stress. Some studies have examined how zinc levels correlate with focus and mental regulation, especially in younger people. (3)

Zinc is also thought to have a potential impact on sleep, immune resilience and general brain health, and research continues into these areas. 

Conclusion

Zinc is a basic nutrient for the human brain and for the health of the nervous system. Its inclusion in cognitive supplements reflects both its accepted biological role and growing scientific interest in its effect on focus, mood and memory.

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What are B-vitamins

B-Vitamins are a family of distinct chemical compounds that work both individually and collectively to help many of the body’s natural processes, particularly in the brain and nervous system. They are vital for energy production and a large range of essential body functions ranging from DNA creation and repair to the formation of neurotransmitters and the structure of nerve cells. (1)

Each B-vitamin has a unique chemical composition and supports specific biological functions. They often work together to achieve their results. They are often included in food supplements designed to support focus, energy, emotional wellbeing, and mental ability and resilience.(2)

A note on bioavailability 

Food supplements which use B-vitamins in their methylated or “active” forms, such as methylfolate (B9) or methylcobalamin (B12), do so because these forms are already in a form that the body can readily use, without requiring conversion by the body. Often this approach is used in high-quality formulations and it may be particularly relevant for people who have differences in the way they metabolise nutrients, such as those people with MTHFR gene variants. 

The Science

 Research has explored how B-Vitamins contribute to mental performance, mood balance, and neurological health: 

• Thiamine (B1) helps convert food into energy and has been studied for its role in nerve regeneration and oxidative stress protection. (3) 
• Niacin (B3) aids metabolism and also DNA repair. It has been investigated for its potential in supporting cognitive function and neurovascular health. (4)
• Pantothenic Acid (B5) plays a role in synthesising acetylcholine - a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory. (5)
• Pyridoxine (B6) contributes to the production of mood-related neurotransmitters and has been linked to stress modulation.(6) 
• Methylfolate (B9) supports brain cell development and has been associated with mood and attention in specific populations. (7)
• Methylcobalamin (B12) is important for red blood cell formation and DNA creation, and has been studied in relation to cognitive ageing and low mood. (8)
  

Conclusion 

B-Vitamins are essential for a wide range of processes in the human body, including the healthy functioning of the brain and nervous system. They support energy production, neurotransmitter synthesis and cellular repair and they are a foundational part of nutritional strategies to support cognitive clarity, emotional wellbeing and focus. 

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