3 Brain-Boosting Supplements For a Mental Edge

Healthy fats aren’t the only thing you can add to your diet in order to boost your intelligence. There are other food-based supplements available that you can integrate into your lifestyle to help protect your brain health and optimize mental performance.

Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR)
ALCAR is an amino acid that acts as an antioxidant in the brain. ALCAR has been shown to enhance the effects of acetylcholine, a stimulating neurotransmitter, to help your brain work better. It also enhances the function of dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for reward and pleasure feelings in your brain, and acts as a powerful cognitive enhancer. Recent research has also demonstrated that ALCAR can help to increase fat oxidation in your mitochondria, the energy powerhouses in your cells. It’s sold in capsules and powder form, with dosages recommended on the label.

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Oxaloacetate
A naturally occurring supplement found in every cell in your body, oxaloacetate has many benefits, including all the benefits that research has shown are associated with caloric restriction, like improvements in aging. However, the most important benefit is that it protects your brain from damage by reducing harmful glutamate levels. Glutamate is the most common neurotransmitter in your body and an excessive build-up can be toxic and cause all manner of problems, including cognitive impairment, sleep problems, stress, and even cell death from excitation. Oxaloacetate protects your brain and mitochondria so that you aren’t hampered by brain fog and mental fatigue.

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Creatine
Typically associated with sports and athletic performance supplements, creatine has actually been shown to have powerful brain-boosting effects too! Studies have shown that creatine can boost cognitive performance, and that there can even be a small IQ boost for those in their 30s who take it daily. It’s also good for those under 30 and even great for anyone over 40.

From Rodale Wellness
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