NOOTROPICS are natural or synthetic supplements or drugs that claim to enhance the way your brain functions.
This includes improving your memory, problem-solving abilities and decision-making as well as increasing attention span.
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They can also help with relaxation and tension relief. Jane Atkinson takes a look at some . . .
DRINKS
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AUSTRALIAN company Nexba, known for its natural, sugar-free soft drinks, has launched a nootropics range featuring Zingy Passionfruit Focus, Pink Grapefruit Glow and Smooth Blueberry Calm.
It claims they boost the brain, calm the nerves and support healthier-looking and feeling skin.
Each product has a set of vitamins and ingredients that supports cognitive function, better mood management and mental wellbeing.
I tried the Passionfruit Focus, which contains gingseng, green tea and vitamin D.
This has a lovely, fruity, herbal flavour. Not sweet at all, really refreshing.
I was actually amazed by it – I did feel more focused and alert after drinking.
I will be buying these instead of reaching for a coffee – especially as they are just three calories per 300ml with zero sugar. £1.60 a can, seenexba.co.uk.
BARS
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NU:TROPIC bars are new to the market, too.
They are made from Norwegian black oats and packed with essential brain nutrients omega-3, phosphatidylserine and choline.
Plus they have vitamins, minerals, and gut-healthy prebiotic fibre. They come in four flavours – raisin and almond, maple and pecan, apple and cinnamon, and salted caramel.
I tried the salted caramel and although I don’t like sweet things particularly, this was amazing – slightly bitter, chewy, filling.
Each bar contains 150mg Omega DHA, is high in fibre, low in sugar and fewer than 200 calories, making it a healthy option for both the brain and body.
Nu:tropic bars are 100 per cent plant-based and gluten-free.
They start from £2.92 a bar. For more information, seenutropic.com.
PILLS
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CALM pills from Earth Secret contain a medicinal herb called Ashwagandha (the strong KSM-66 variety) which has been clinically proven to reduce stress, anxiety, cortisol levels and stress-related food cravings.
It also promotes enhanced memory, cognitive functions and muscle recovery rate. The pills contain calming holy basil and rhodiola rosea, as well as L-theanine. I really rate them.
You can take in the day but I tried them at night, popping two an hour before bed – and I slept like a baby.
They calmed my mind to help me nod off and I didn’t wake feeling groggy. They cost £29.75 for 60 capsules. See earthsecret.com.