What are Nootropics?

Nootropics are substances associated with the ability to boost a person’s cognitive functions. Cognitive tasks such as executive functions (cognitive processes that control behavior), memory, creativity and alertness can all be influenced through the supplementation of nootropic materials.

The film ‘Limitless’ is based on the premise of a powerful nootropic that elevates brain function, and if you have ever set foot onto a university campus you may have heard of substances such as Modafinil or Adderall, which students will take in order to help them focus for long periods of time. In fact, nearly every person worldwide will consume nootropics during their lifetime in the form of caffeine, which is abundant in drinks such as coffee, tea and energy drinks.

Caffeine

Due to their capacity to improve brain function and athletic abilities, it is unsurprising that the use of nootropics in sporting endeavors is becoming increasingly common. Caffeine is the most widely administered nootropic and performance enhancing drug (PED) due to its many associated benefits. There is a large body of evidence which indicates moderate to high intakes of caffeine (3 mg-6 mg/lb body weight) can have significant performance benefits across a range of sports such as endurance events (long distance running/cycling), team and racket sports and long lasting high intensity events (i.e. CrossFit/sprint cycling) (Burke, 2008). There is also data suggesting that acute power output can be enhanced through caffeine supplementation such as a 100m sprint or a max effort vertical jump (Grgic, Trexler, Lazinica and Pedisic, 2018).

Nootropics and mental performance

But what about sports that heavily rely on mental performance? Think of sports that require quick decision-making and processing, such as BMX biking, skiing, and climbing. These sports put athletes under immense pressure, demanding lightning-fast reactions and sharp mental capabilities. In these high-stress situations where clear thinking is essential, nootropics can be a game-changer. Caffeine has been found to enhance mental performance, especially in athletes (Burke, 2008). Tyrosine, on the other hand, can boost brain function, especially in high-stress scenarios (Deijen and Orlebeke, 1994). Zinc and iodine supplements improve brain health and focus, while Panax Ginseng and antioxidant nootropics can help athletes manage post-activity stress and anxiety levels (Rai, Bhatia, Sen, and Palit, 2003). Lion's mane can also enhance overall cognitive health (Sabaratnam, Kah-Hui, Naidu, and David, 2013). While these substances may not provide immediate performance benefits, they can improve recovery and sleep quality, leading to better overall health and wellbeing for athletes.

In a Nutshell

The conclusion is that nootropics are a developing area in the world of sports performance and overall health. Athletes can gain an advantage in physical and mental abilities by using these substances, which also have the potential to enhance cognitive performance. Furthermore, nootropics can contribute to improved brain and bodily function, as well as stress management.