A lot has changed since then, with the modern definition being any supplement that helps the brain in any way. This has created a large amount of supplements now categorized as Nootropics and the list is constantly growing. In fact, most people have been taking one of the most widely used Nootropics every day for decades. I’ll give you a hint… it’s in your morning cup of coffee. That’s right! Caffeine!
There are 6 main pathways in the brain that are enhanced by Nootropics.
· Acetylcholine (ACh) – Memory, learning, and basic “thinking” cognition.
· Dopamine (DA) – Mood and motivation; pleasure-reward pathway.
· Serotonin (5HT) – Relaxation and deep satisfaction. · Norepinephrine (NE) – Attention and intense focus.
· Epinephrine (EPI) – a.k.a. Adrenaline; intense energy.
· Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) – “Downer” sedation and calmness; inhibits excessive excitation.
An optimized neurotransmitter status is one that bears not only a healthy reserve of each neurotransmitter but healthy neurotransmitter receptors, in addition to several other auxiliary factors – e.g., intrasynaptic enzymes.
An imbalance at any step – neurotransmitter synthesis, release, or uptake – may cause an imbalance across-the-board, resulting in disrupted emotions and cognition.
Nootropics may optimize neurotransmitters by:
· Supplying brain chemical precursors
· Promoting neurotransmitter synthesis
· Enhancing receptor sensitivity
· Inhibiting neurotransmitter breakdown
