Nootropic is a new term for most people. Many people cannot even pronounce the word let alone understand what it means. This post is a simple guide to help you understand what nootropics mean and how you can use it in daily life.
Nootropics – A brief introduction
Nootropics are compounds taken to improve cognitive function in humans. They were discovered around 1960, and since then they have been the subject of intense research. Scientists have observed nootropics improve the major areas of cognitive development and learning. The subject today is extensive and covers a large range of elements. Many of them still under research. It has been proved that people that take nootropics experience better learning and memory abilities. Besides the above, the consumption of nootropics has also helped people alleviate symptoms associated with Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s and Multiple Sclerosis. It also protects the Central Nervous System in the body as well as the brain.
Some common examples of nootropics
Nootropics are often seen as nutrients for the human body and are not unlike drugs. The following are some examples of nootropics-
Aniracetam-This nootropic enhances cognitive abilities and is a stimulant. Its effects start to work within 20 minutes of intake.
L-Theanine-This nootropic is found in Green Tea and reduces anxiety in people. It enhances learning and focus.
Piracetam-This nootropic is the subject of extensive research and is one of the best-known nootropics for cognitive development.
Pramiracetam-This is a more powerful version of Piracetam and is known for memory enhancement and learning.
The above are just some of the common examples of nootropics taken by people across the world today. Note, they do have any kind of side effects or cause harm to the human body in any way.
How should you take nootropics?
You should note that nootropics are no quick-fix. Experts in the field suggest you should coordinate it with other healthy areas of life to attain maximum results. This includes following a healthy diet, a good amount of sleep and exercise, maintaining high levels of Vitamin B in the diet, staying hydrated and staying positive.
You should note nootropics can also be stacked together for improving results — for instance- choline. You can find choline in food like nuts and eggs. It is a precursor to neurotransmitter Acetylcholine which is present in your brain. This means when you take choline, it gets transformed into Acetylcholine giving you improved mental energy. You can also improve your cognitive abilities with the help of acetylcholine. The levels of mental functioning have increased in daily life, and with the help of choline, you can replenish this depletion with the introduction of a choline source into your daily life.
Are there any risks associated with the consumption of nootropics?
When it comes to the intake of nootropics, there are no side effects or risks; however, it is crucial for you to know the correct dose. If you take anything in excess, you might land up with an upset stomach or other health complications like headaches, nausea, drowsiness, etc. When you have decided to take nootropics, you should consult a healthcare provider to find out how much is right for you.
Remember, nootropics do have a host of unique benefits in several and if you are interested in taking up nootropics for your health, ensure you speak to a skilled healthcare professional in the field. Make sure you take the right dose to reap its optimal benefits.
Can they be given to children?
Most adults want to improve their memories and make the right choices; however, what about children? Are nootropics healthy for them? As children do, they need some form of support to help them optimize their brain power to the maximum levels. Can nootropics play an effective role in their cognitive development especially if a child has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD?
The above are just some questions that parents ask themselves when it comes to the administration of nootropics to children. Parents of kids that have ADHD are worried about the future of their children; however, the good news is some nootropics can be given to children for boosting brain power and cognitive development. Healthcare experts say that parents should carefully read nootropic reviews first to understand how it works for cognitive development and function. They will understand what it means and how it will help their child function better mentally.
Understand the developing brain of your child
As a parent, you should first understand how the brain of a child is different from an adult. Children below the age of 10 years have a very high concentration of grey matter. This is where synaptic connections are made. The prime reasons being the brain of the child has to be flexible so that it can be molded as per the given situation or circumstance. This is a phase in the life of a child where high levels of neuroplasticity are present in his/her brain. In simple terms, the brain of the child is continuously forming new bonds and connections creating fresh pathways to learn and navigate through the ways of the world. Children with the help of the above understand how to live in the world.
After ten years, the brain of the child undergoes a new development process that is often referred to as pruning. This process cements all the connections that the child needs removing the ones that he/she does not use frequently. In this process, a new type of brain matter is formed- white matter. The brain scans of a child above ten years show the white matter present in the brain. It is different from the grey matter because it seems like fat and thick coat located on the neurons called myelin.
The formation of the white matter on the myelin via this process is called myelination. This white matter has a number of advantages- it boosts quick transmission of nerves and protects the neurons in the brain. Therefore, the key difference between the brain of an adult and the brain of a child is proportions of grey matter and white matter.
Now, you understand the difference between the brain of a child and adult. It is now time for you to explore the different kinds of nootropics effective and safe for kids. Parents should note the natural nootropics should be given to children to support nutrition and growth. These nootropics will boost neurochemical changes to the body and help natural processes to occur organically.
The following are the top 3 safe, natural nootropics that can be given to kids-
Children should be given the above nootropics; however, make sure they are not administered caffeine and racetams. Experts say they should be avoided at all costs as sufficient research is yet unavailable as to how these nootropics will interact with the chemical developing occurring in the brain of the child.
Should children be given nootropics?
Experts in the field of nootropics say since children are developing, safe and natural nootropics can be given to them to boost growth and development. The three nootropics mentioned above are completely safe for kids and can be given to them in the right doses. As a parent always consult a credible and skilled expert in the field of nootropics when it comes to its administration to kids. The same should be applied to adults as well. Never take nootropics in incorrect doses or else you will face mild to acute health problems later on.
Last but not least, as mentioned above, simply taking nootropics will not boost good health. In addition to nootropics, you must embrace a healthy lifestyle as well. Good habits like a balanced diet, sufficient sleep and lots of water are the need of the day for both adults and children to stay mentally functional and healthy with success!