Ancestral Supplements
Ancestral Supplements - Grass Fed Beef Brain With Liver 180caps 500mg
£67.00
Pasture Raised In New Zealand
Grass-fed & Grass-Finished
Hormone, Pesticide & GMO Free
Absolutely No Fillers (or) Flow Agents
100% Freeze Dried & Non-Defatted
Third Party Tested For Purity
Allergen Free
SUPPLEMENT FACTS
Serving Size: 6 Capsules
Servings Per Container: 30
AMOUNT PER CAPSULE
Freeze-Dried New Zealand Grassfed Whole Brain Extract With Liver 500 MG
Grass Fed Whole Brain Extract (Bovine) 250 MG
Grass Fed Brain
Grass Fed Pituitary Gland
Grass Fed Hypothalamus Gland
Grass Fed Pineal Gland
Grass Fed Liver (Bovine) 250 MG
OTHER INGREDIENTS: Collagen (Beef Gelatin) Capsules
SUGGESTED USE: Six capsules daily or as directed by a healthcare professional.
MANUFACTURED IN THE USA: ANCESTRAL SUPPLEMENTS, LLC
FDA STATEMENT: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
WHOLE BRAIN EXTRACT CONTAINS...
Proteins Exclusively Found And Expressed In Whole Brain Extract
Brain Derived Glandulars Including The Pituitary, Hypothalamus and Pineal Glands
Unique Peptides And Neurotrophic Factors Including Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)
Sphingomyelin — Found In High Concentrations In The Myelin Sheath.
Brain Cell Activators, Phosphatidylserine & Omega-3 Fats EPA and DHA
WHOLE BRAIN EXTRACT SUPPORTS...
Optimal Brain Health Based On "Like Supports Like"
Memory, Mood And Cognitive Health
The Survival of Existing Neurons & Encourages The Growth and Differentiation Of New Neurons
Myelin Sheath, Signal Transduction & Apoptosis
NOURISH YOUR WAY TO HEALTH & HAPPINESS WITH GRASS FED BEEF BRAIN
For most of human history, we effortlessly consumed (nose-to-tail) the things we needed for strength, health and happiness. Like the fertile ground that we once walked upon, we were a natural extension of this earth. In the modern world, we unknowingly struggle to fulfill our nutritional needs in order to support and sustain a vibrant, disease-free life. We are now part of a world where neurodegenerative conditions, mood disorders and impaired brain functioning run amuck.
[ Compounds in whole bovine brain extract may reduce aspects of cellular atrophy, degeneration, decreases in tissue elasticity, and other negative aspects associated with aging.*[2] Brain glandulars contain "specific brain cell activators" [3] and have been advised for slowness of thought, loss of memory, uncontrolled mental activity and epilepsy.*[4,5]
Bovine-brain derived phosphatidylserine was found to improve both behavior and cognition in elderly people with cognitive decline.* [6] "...phosphatidylserine enhances the ability of enzymes in membranes of nerve cells to relay messages in and out of the cells. This product (bovine-brain phosphatidylserine) can improve memory in older adults, and can ameliorate symptoms of depression."*[7] Included in whole brain extract are neurotrophic factors that support the survival of existing neurons and encourages the growth of new neurons as well as sphingomyelin which plays a central role in the myelin sheath and cell signaling.*[9,11] ]
Whole food, nutrient dense organs and glands can provide great benefit for those seeking targeted support in harmony with nature — the old fashioned way, the way that our early ancestors did. Grass Fed Beef Brain is a whole brain extract and dietary supplement that provides 100% pure bovine brain with pituitary, hypothalamus and pineal gland in the same balance that exists in nature. Our mission is our purpose... putting back in, what the modern world has left out.
New Zealand
Our product is 100% sourced in New Zealand. In agricultural circles, it's known that the clean air, green pastures, and animal husbandry is at a higher level
Ultra Pure
Our product is 100% pure... This means that you won't see any of the extra stuff that most supplement companies include to save time and money (stearates, silica, etc)
Freeze Dried
Our product is 100% freeze dried in contrast to the heat processed varieties. This means that you get more of the heat sensitive vitamins, minerals and co-factors that make organ meats so incredibly nourishing
Safety
There has never been a case of mad cow disease in New Zealand. BSE (mad cow disease), scrapie and other known TSE’s, do not occur in New Zealand. A national surveillance programme is in place to provide comprehensive monitoring
CONSIDER THE SOURCE
New Zealand seems like it was made for raising healthy animals. Its location and climate produce pristine conditions for cattle and sheep, and the farmers have uncanny expertise handed down for generations. New Zealand is unique among meat-producing regions in the world because its climate is moderate so the grass in the pastures grows fresh and grows green year-round which means the cows and sheep can eat the food that’s healthiest for them every day of the year.
Our nose-to-tail product line is always from grassfed, inspected animals born and raised without the use of pesticides, hormones or antibiotics. Health of livestock used for manufacturing in New Zealand is closely monitored by a world leading biosecurity system that is second to none, and is a global exemplar. Strict government licensing, auditing and certification procedures mean that our genuine New Zealand freeze dried products can be used with complete confidence in their origin, safety and efficacy. Freeze-drying preserves the heat sensitive vitamins, minerals and co-factors of components leaving the nutrients in the same balance as found in nature.
BENEFITS OF EATING BRAIN WITH LIVER
Traditional peoples, Native Americans and early ancestral healers believed that eating the organs from a healthy animal would strengthen and support the health of the corresponding organ of the individual. For instance, the traditional way of treating a person with a weak heart was to feed the person the heart of a healthy animal. Similarly, eating the kidneys of a healthy animal was believed to support urinary ailments and overall kidney health... Pancreas was fed to people with digestive and endocrine problems... and brain was frequently consumed raw and was thought to support clear thinking.*[1,13]
Whether from grassfed beef, bison, or lamb, grass fed liver is one of the most nutrient-dense foods you could possibly eat. Hunters all over the world, for uncounted thousands of years, would eat the raw livers of the animals they killed. Lions and other predatory animals will also eat the liver first. Grass fed liver is particularly rich in B vitamins, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin K, magnesium, and many other nutrients. Grass fed liver also contains compounds that help the human liver function better. Other substances in liver reduce fatigue and improve brain function.*[1]
Organs and glandulars were a staple of our early ancestors' diets as the ultimate superfood, for good reason. It turns out, this nourishing tradition is backed by science... "Radioisotope labeling studies in animals have shown conclusively that, when eaten, organs and glands selectively travel to the corresponding organs and glands in high concentrations. This research, done at the University of Scotland in Edinburgh, lends credence to the ancient practice of eating animal organs to help ensure health in one’s corresponding organs..." - Dr. Ron Schmid, ND.*[10] Our early ancestors knew this, which is why their traditional diets included the frequent and nourishing consumption of nose-to-tail organs and glands.
— Based on the ancient ancestral wisdom that "like supports like." Consuming brain may strengthen and support our own brain
— Included in whole brain extract is sphingomyelin which plays a central role in the myelin sheath, cell signaling and apoptosis *[1] —
— Included in whole brain extract are neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) that support the survival of existing neurons and encourages the growth of new neurons * —
SUGGESTED USE (6 CAPSULES A DAY)
Six capsules provides the equivalent of one ounce of fresh, raw whole glandulars and organs that you’d get from your local farmer (or) butcher. Our Grass Fed Brain (with liver) is a whole food dietary supplement that provides whole brain extract — including pituitary, hypothalamus, pineal glands in the physiological amounts that exist in harmony with nature. This supplement can be taken with (or) without food (even though it technically is food). The suggested use is 6 capsules a day or as directed by a healthcare professional — for added support, the dose can be doubled. This supplement can be consumed all at once, or divided servings throughout the day.
POTENTIAL ISSUES (DETOX REACTION)
Most customers tolerate our supplements without incident; however, approximately 5 to 10% of customers (usually with an autoimmune condition) may experience a detoxification reaction. Detoxification reactions go by many different names including healing reactions, healing crises, cleansing reactions (or) Herxheimer reactions with hallmark symptoms of nausea, headache, lethargy, dizziness and other flu like symptoms. In this instance, detoxification reactions are generally an indication that detoxification pathways in the body are back online... cells suddenly have an opportunity to release an even greater than normal quantity of stored toxins, metabolic wastes, pathogens and unwanted material.
A detoxification reaction is more likely to occur when starting with the full suggested serving size of 6 capsules per day. If you know that you are sensitive to supplements and/or you have an autoimmune condition, you may wish to start slow when adding this product to your current regimen. Tolerability can be greatly improved by starting with just 1 (or) 2 capsules a day and increasing by just 1 capsule every couple of days — this method may take a full two weeks to achieve the desired serving size of 6 capsules per day.
HIGH QUALITY ORGANS & GLANDS
Okay, you're convinced! You're going to start incorporating organ meats in your routine because, well... you're educated now... you understand, just as our early ancestors did, that they provide superlative health benefits that are missing in our modern diets. The next step is sourcing it. It's important that you source the highest quality because not all organs and glands are created equal. Consider the source.
Should Come From An Unpolluted Geographical Region — Isolated, Healthy, Pristine Lands
Should Come From Pasture Raised Animals
Should Come From Grass-Fed & Grass-Finished Animals
Should Come From Animals That Are Hormone, Pesticide & GMO Free
Should Also Be Ultra Pure... Absolutely No Fillers (or) Flow Agents, No Allergens
Should Be Non-Defatted
Should Be 100% Freeze Dried... Freeze Drying Preserves Heat Sensitive Biological Activity
SUGGESTED SUPPLEMENTS (3)
If you're going to pick just one ancestral supplement to start with, make it our GRASS FED BEEF LIVER... unless you need targeted support with another specific organ system (see below). If you are going to pick two supplements, our GRASS FED BEEF LIVER and our GRASS FED BEEF ORGANS provide complementary and synergistic nourishment. If you can add a third supplement, GRASS FED BONE MARROW fills fat soluble nutrition gaps and provides the fat soluble activators that nutrition giant Dr. Weston Price extensively wrote about.
Grass Fed Beef Liver
Grass Fed Beef Organs (liver, heart, kidney, pancreas, spleen)
Grass Fed Bone Marrow
On the other hand, if you're looking for targeted organ support, you may be interested in our GRASS FED BEEF HEART to support heart health (or) our GRASS FED THYROID to support a struggling thyroid (or) our GRASS FED THYMUS to support thymus function and immune health... you get the picture.* We have a nose-to-tail product line that can be found on our "Products" page. If you can't find what you're looking for (or) you're not sure what you're looking for, send us an email and we'll do everything we can to help.
GRASSFED BRAIN SUMMARY
Our genome has evolved with the nourishment of nose-to-tail dining since the beginning of time. Grassfed Beef Brain is a whole brain extract that provides brain cell activators, neurotrophic factors, brain derived glandulars and hundreds of other compounds exclusive to brain tissue that regulate memory, mood and cognitive functions.* Based on the concept of "like supports like," consuming brain may strengthen and support our own brain.* Bovine-brain derived phosphatidylserine has been shown to improve both behavior and cognition associated with cognitive decline.*[6]
Not all organs and glands are the same. Look for the highest quality brain glandular... It should come from pasture-raised, grass-fed calves that are hormone, pesticide and GMO free. If considering a supplement, look for one that is ultra pure (without binders, fillers (or) flow agents) and look for the freeze dried variety as these have been shown to optimally preserve nutritional factors, growth factors and co-factors.
[ FACT: There has never been a case of mad cow disease in New Zealand. BSE (mad cow disease), scrapie and other known TSE’s, do not occur in New Zealand. A national surveillance programme is in place to provide comprehensive monitoring. ]
NOTE: Desiccated brain (or) whole brain extract glandular can be found on the market by various names: whole brain, brain extract, desiccated brian, brain glandular, brain PMG belongs to Standard Process and then there's simply bovine brain.
SAFETY SUMMARY
As it relates to potential microbes and parasites, our product is 100% freeze dried in contrast to the heat processed varieties out there. This process preserves heat sensitive biological activity while removing 98 - 99% of the moisture content. This leaves virtually no moisture; since microbes (viruses, bacteria, parasites etc) can not survive without moisture, this allows for an ultra pure product profile with a very long shelf life — of course, with no need for additives or preservatives.
Additional quality controls include the following...
3rd party microbial testing before and after encapsulation
3rd party veterinarian health inspection is performed by the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries — for 100% of our animal derived biologics
We exclusively harvest Brain, Bone Marrow and Thymus from young calves
There has never been a single case of mad cow disease in New Zealand. BSE (mad cow disease); scrapie and other known TSE’s, do not occur in New Zealand. A national surveillance program is in place to provide comprehensive monitoring.
I put the care, attention and quality assurance into my products as if I am giving them to my family... because I am! My young boys, my wife and I all take the Beef Liver, Beef Organs and Bone Marrow everyday.
ACTIVATING AN ANCIENT PATHWAY [KETOSIS MAKES YOUR BRAIN WORK BETTER]
Nutritional ketosis may have health benefits in conditions such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, MS, autism, traumatic brain injuries and much more.*[14] By now you've heard all the rage about ketosis, also known as the ketogenic diet. It's the new diet that everybody's doing, right! Actually, ketosis isn't new at all... it's been around for... well... since we (human beings) have been around. Ketones provided the energy substrate for our brains and bodies when glucose wasn't available, such as in times of famine which was a common occurrence for our early ancestors. Fortunately for us, biology figured out an elegant solution to the problem of inconsistent food sources and a large, hungry brain... ketosis.
— Ketosis certainly helps people with neurodegeneration conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, aging-related cognitive decline, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease * —
— An outpouring of anecdotes suggest that otherwise healthy people can experience cognitive benefits from brain utilization of ketones. Wife and I belong to this outpouring... love the upgraded mental performance! * —
— Ketosis upregulates mitochondrial biogenesis in the brain. It literally creates new power plants in the brain that are good at burning fat-derived fuel and mopping up brain fog * —
"People whose brains suffer from impaired glucose utilization see cognitive benefits from ketones. In Alzheimer’s disease, aging-related cognitive decline, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease, brain glucose uptake is depressed—even before any actual cognitive decline appears. Despite high glucose availability, the aging, epileptic, Alzheimer’s, or Parkinson’s brain can’t utilize enough of it to handle cognition. Enter ketones. Ketones act as an alternative energy source for the glucose-starved brains. It’s no coincidence that ketogenic diets can improve symptoms (and in some cases abolish them) and cognitive function in all four conditions." [16]
For the record, unless there's a neurodegenerative, mood and/or memory condition on board, I don’t think we all need to be on a ketogenic diet, nor do we all need to remain in ketosis for extended periods of time; however, I do think we need to slip in and out of ketosis on a regular basis... just as our early ancestors would have done. After all, we seem to be purpose built for doing it and we derive massive health and happiness benefits from it. We know it seems to stave off neurodegeneration, as well as improve the brains of people already suffering from it.*[16]
[ NOTE: Ketosis is a high fat, moderate protein, low carbohydrate way of eating. Medium chain triglycerides (MCT oil), intermittent fasting (IF) and fasting all elevate ketone bodies. Have a look at what I eat (see below) but be careful with too much protein as this can kick you out of ketosis. A typical keto meal should consist of 70% to 75% healthy fats, 20% protein and 5% carbohydrates. The best book, that's also available on Audible, that I've read on ketosis is Keto Clarity. ]
For these reasons, my tribe (my family) and I follow seasonal eating patterns that allow us to slip in and out of ketosis. If we're feeling really good, we may stay in it a little longer. It helps us to think, to perform, and to produce. The following is an idea of how and what we eat... notice that we also go through periods of feast and famine with twenty-four hour fasts and huge refeeds where almost nothing that resembles primal food is off limits.
OUR TYPICAL 1ST MEAL IS A DELICIOUS SHAKE AND IT LOOKS LIKE THIS...
Wallaby Organic / Grass fed yogurt (2 cups or 150g)
NOW Brand MCT oil (1-2 tablespoons; up to 30g- dose to tolerability). NOTE: MCT always produces elevated ketones.
Organic raw virgin coconut oil or organic ghee (2 to 3 tablespoons or 30 to 45g)
Organic almond butter (2 tablespoons or 30g)
Organic unrefined red palm oil (1 tablespoon or 15g)
Grassfed Collagen / Gelatin (10-20g)
Himalayan sea salt -- 1/4 tsp (2g)
Organic cinnamon -- 2g
Organic / Grassfed vanilla protein powder (1 scoop) — I like Bluebonnet Grassfed Protein
Organic banana (optional when not doing strict keto or if sleep if affected by too low carb consumption)
Organic / Pasture raised raw eggs (4 to 6 large eggs)
Organic raw milk (1 cup or 150g)... raw is best but Whole Kalona Brand Milk is a good second option if you don't do raw milk
This shake takes me about 15 to 20 minutes to make... It's super convenient... and, it's down right delicious. If I don't make a shake, I will have a bunch of pasture-raised eggs (8 or so) that are smothered in butter with a side of avocado, nitrate-free, sugar-free bacon and a dollop of sour cream.
OUR TYPICAL SECOND MEAL IS COOKED... IT'S HOT... IT'S BETTER THAN ANY RESTAURANT FOOD... IT LOOKS LIKE THIS...
Homemade Bone Soup (simmered for two to three days with tons of marrow)
Serving or Kimchi
Organic Avocado
Grass fed butter or Ghee (2 tablespoons)
Organic unrefined red palm oil
Salad of dark leafy greens w/ 2 tablespoons of Organic, fresh pressed olive oil and sea salt (I get mine from Apollo Olive Oil)
Grass fed beef/organs (6 - 9 oz ground peleo and various organs)
Organic almond butter (2 tablespoons) mixed with organic raw coconut oil (2 tablespoons) and a tablespoon of Bluebonnet's grassfed vanilla protein
Organic banana with raw local honey (Optional when not doing strict keto or if sleep if affected by too low carb consumption)
100% Cacao block for dessert
We generally carb reload on the weekends with plenty of sweet potatoes, raw local honey, the occasional sorghum and various in-season fruits. We also do a twenty-four to thirty hour fast on Sundays... it's not as bad as it sounds. We eat an early dinner as we normally would on early Saturday evening... skip our first meal on Sunday, and eat an amazing fish-based dinner (usually wild caught sardines) with the entire tribe on Sunday. We also do heat and cold exposures together and we go on barefoot hikes every Sunday. Connecting to mother earth creates strong parasympathetic tone for enhanced recovery for the week to come. The basis of how our tribe lives is this... if our early ancestors did it, we do too... or at least we try to. See our most up-to-date tribe life on our "About Us" page.
SUPPLEMENTS THAT WE TAKE
Transdermal Magnesium Oil - We use magnesium oil every night.
Vitamin D3 - Only when we're not able to get adequate sun exposure (this is rare)
Vitamin K2 - Only when we're not regularly eating my kimchi (this is also rare)
Grass Fed Liver
Grass Fed Beef Organs
Grass Fed Bone Marrow
Keep in mind that my tribe and I eat a very nutrient dense diet. We consume the whole animal just as our ancestors did... That's right, we eat the liver, kidney, pancreas, spleen, heart, thymus, bones, tendons, ligaments and more... and we eat this way every day (except on vacation we take Liver, Beef Organs and Bone Marrow supplements). We love our bone broth (this is my wife's specialty), and we eat tons of pastured eggs. Wife is awesome enough to sprout chickpeas for us. Then, she turns half of the batch into the best homemade hummus in the world. Super high in folate (NOT SYNTHETIC FOLIC ACID, big diff)!!
You never know, ketosis could easily be the missing link to the mood, memory and mental performance benefits that we are all after. Why not give it a try. Send me an email... let me know your thoughts... let me know your questions. I'd love to hear from you. Our mission is our purpose... putting back in, what the modern world has left out.
[ Stay positive... think about the wonderful things in your life that you're grateful for... eat like our early ancestors did... move around like our ancestors did... avoid danger like our ancestors did (think lions, trans fats, sugars, fluoride, excessive wifi, emfs, vaccines, mercury, etc)... slow down... go barefoot, connect to the earth... get sensible sun exposure... get cold (environmental conditioning)... mind your magnesium... sleep like a rock... keep stress in check... and breathe like Wim Hof. ]
Natural Stacks
Dopamine Brain Food™ - 60 Capsules (Natural Stacks)
£39.95
Dopamine Brain Food™ is designed to promote the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter essential to the central nervous system.
Research suggests that the compounds in Dopamine Brain Food™ can improve attention and learning, as well as movement and balance.
The benefits include:
● Increased mental alertness● Increased drive to accomplish tasks● Support for athletic performance
This natural formula contains all the necessary precursors and cofactors for optimal dopamine metabolism.
What is “brain food”?
Neurochemistry, the chemical patterns and processes that cause your brain to function as it does, is highly complex. It varies significantly between individuals, and is heavily influenced by a large range of factors. Your diet, exercise habits, sun exposure, social group and genetics all have a role to play in your brain’s chemical behaviour.
Most of us do not get enough of everything we need every day to keep our brain function 100% optimized. That’s why supplementing with brain food can give you such an edge.
Brain food are natural nutrients that act as fuel for specific neurotransmitters in the brain. They can be taken daily to boost various states of optimal performance.
By addressing any deficiencies or imbalances in the delicate neurological system, you can increase your ability to concentrate, regulate your energy, and balance your mood.
The importance of Dopamine
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is associated with motivation, short-term memory, creativity and personality. It is metabolized into epinephrine and norepinephrine, which increase alertness and attention.
Abnormal dopamine levels can cause a wide range of diseases. Low levels are associated with Alzheimers, Parkinsons and depression.
Getting your dopamine levels balanced and in an optimal range can have a profound influence on your health and quality of life. When your dopamine is being produced at the optimal pace, you will feel alert and engaged. Your mood will be stable and well balanced. You’ll feel calm and steady, while being able to think creatively and with total clarity.
Complete Neurotransmitter Support
The best way to optimize dopamine levels is to ensure that the necessary precursors and cofactors are available. These precursors and cofactors pave the way for your brain to produce and then use dopamine at an optimal rate.
Dopamine Brain Food™ provides these essential compounds. It contains amino acid precursors (L-Phenylalanine & L-Tyrosine), dopamine metabolism cofactors and antioxidants (Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, & Selenium), as well as specific nutrients to optimize the SAM cycle (Folate, Vitamin B12, & Trimethylglycine).
For Mental Alertness
SUGGESTED USE: Take a serving of 2 or 3 capsules in the morning, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner. Do not take more than 3 capsules per day.
Dopamine Brain Fuel works synergistically with CILTEP by ensuring that the increase in intracellular cAMP is supported for an extended period of time, leading to even more pronounced motivation and focus.
U.S.A manufactured in a cGMP facility. Natural Stacks proudly uses only the highest quality ingredients.
L-Phenylalanine
As a precursor to dopamine, this essential amino acid is directly converted into phenylethylamine, an important neurotransmitter and neuromodulator. It is converted into Ltyrosine in the body by phenylalanine hydroxylase. It’s present in many foods such as eggs, meat and dairy.
L-Tyrosine
A non-essential amino acids found in many foods including meats and dairy that is converted by tyrosine hydroxylase into L-DOPA, the direct precursor to dopamine.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxal-5-phosphate)
An essential vitamin that is also a necessary cofactor that is used by the enzyme DOPA decarboxylase to convert L-DOPA into dopamine.
Vitamin C(Quali-C®)
A familiar essential vitamin and antioxidant found in high amounts in fruits. It is a cofactor that helps dopamine βhydroxylase convert dopamine into noradrenaline. Vitamin C speeds up this conversion process and plays an important neuroprotective role.
Folate (Quatrefolic® L-Methylfolate), Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin), & Trimethylglycine(TMG)
These nutrients help turn homocysteine into SAM-E by acting as cofactors and substrates for the SAM cycle. Creating optimal amounts of SAM-E is important, as it is a precursor to the body’s natural production of many beneficial endogenous substances such as creatine. It also provides the methylation fuel that turns noradrenaline in to adrenaline.
Selenium
An essential vitamin and antioxidant that protects cells and helps keep the brain’s levels of dopamine producing enzymes at optimal levels.
Quali-C® is a registered trademark of DSM. Quatrefolic® is a registered trademark of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany.
Dopamine Metabolism, by Abelard Lindsay
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is, among other things, associated with motivation, short-term memory, creativity and personality [1][2][3].
It is metabolized into epinephrine and norepinephrine to increase alertness and attention [4]. It must be properly balanced and metabolized for optimal benefit. Too much dopamine can result in manic states [5] and too little can cause depression and lack of motivation [6].
Dopamine metabolism can be metaphorically compared to a factory process where raw materials such as L-Phenylalanine and L-Tyrosine, which are amino acids present in foods, are transformed by various workers (enzymes) who use various materials (cofactors) in each transformation step. The intermediate products of this metabolism are used to transmit signals through the body and the brain [7].
Unlike a regular factory, the intermediate products are the useful aspects of production and are used primarily in signaling.
At the beginning of dopamine metabolism, the dietary amino acid L-Phenylalanine is converted into L-Tyrosine by phenylalanine hydroxylase, and L-Tyrosine into L-Dopa by tyrosine hydroxylase.
Studies suggest that tyrosine hydroxylase is upregulated by phosphorylated CREB, which is activated during cAMP/PKA driven long-term potentiation [8]. This is one of the theorized mechanisms of action of CILTEP. Tyrosine hydroxylase activity is the rate limiting step in this metabolic process [12].
Further down the metabolic chain from L-Tyrosine is L-Dopa, which is also available as a drug and in the supplement mucuna pruriens [13].
L-Dopa’s synthesis into dopamine is supported by the active form of vitamin B6, known as pyridoxal phosphate, commonly abbreviated as p5p , and the enzyme dopadecarboxylase [14].
Some intermediate products of dopamine metabolism act as an agonist at the TAAR1 receptor [15]. This receptor is primarily targeted by ADHD drugs [16].
It causes increases in cAMP levels in the cell [17]. Unlike forskolin, the aforementioned ADHD drugs cause efflux of stored dopamine into the synaptic cleft via modulation of the dopamine transporter protein known as DAT [18][19].
This efflux leads to increases in dopamine in the synaptic cleft, producing fast increases in arousal.
From reading through a lot of anecdotal experiences and research, that it appears to be undesirable to rapidly raise neurotransmitter levels in the synaptic cleft above a given baseline, as it can lead to excessive arousal and unbalanced cognitive effects.
It’s better to help the “factory” produce optimally by supplying cofactors and optimally helping and directing each intermediate reaction and postsynaptic metabolic pathways.
Another place that products from dopamine metabolism operate is in the dopamine receptors themselves. The D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5 receptors all respond to dopamine in the brain and have various cognitive related effects. D2 receptors modulate prolactin, [20] which some studies suggest is linked to the male sexual refractory time [21].
Direct agonists for these receptors are usually in the class of dopamine agonist drugs that are sometimes prescribed for Parkinson’s symptoms [22][23][24]. D1 and D2 are involved in novelty detection [25] and sexual desire [26].
While D1 and D5 are involved in memory formation [27], D2 and D3 are associated with addiction [28] and compulsions [29]. D4 is involved with cognitive performance [30].
The various mood, addiction, compulsion and sexual influencing effects of dopamine agonists in the brain and various accounts of socially undesirable behavior under the administration of direct dopamine agonists [31] (usually in Parkinsons treatment) leads me to avoid the direct stimulation of these pathways.
It appears that it is better to provide cofactors to aid and assist in metabolism along dopaminergic pathways than to directly activate receptors with agonists.
However, direct agonists certainly have their uses.
Dopamine is converted into norepinephrine with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) as a cofactor via the enzyme dopamine b-hydroxylase. That is further converted to epinephrine via phenylethanolamine n-methyltransferase with SAMe as a cofactor. You can read more about SAMe in an earlier essay “The SAM Cycle And The Brain”.
Dopamine can also be converted to the TAAR1 agonist 3Methoxytyramine via the enzyme COMT [32].
COMT inhibition is an interesting area of exploration in cognitive enhancement.
There is a gene polymorphism, the val158met polymorphism, that influences the rate at which dopamine is processed into further metabolic intermediates via the COMT enzyme. The quick processing polymorphism is called val/val and the more slowly processing polymorphism is called met/met.
In one study, participants with the val/val gene had lower scores on a memory test known as dual nback [33]. Another study suggests that those with the met158 allele have better cognitive performance.
To quote the study “The low activity met158 allele has been associated with improved working memory, executive functioning, and attentional control, but also with a higher risk of anxietyrelated behaviors” [34].
It is interesting to note that Luteolin is a substrate for COMT [35], so variations in the COMT allele might account for different anecdotal effects of Luteolin from artichoke extract.
How we metabolize dopamine is a core contributor to mood and cognitive function.
Ape Nutrition
APE Nutrition - Beef Brain 180caps
£40.00
Beef Brain is packed with essential fatty acids including the omega-3 fats DHA & EPA, as well as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). It’s also a rich source of the micronutrients choline, copper and vitamins B2 (Riboflavin), B5 (Pantothenic Acid), B9 (Folate) and B12. All of these play a key role in either brain health or neurotransmitter production, supporting; focus, memory, mood, speed of thought and slowing brain aging. All the organs we source for our nose-to-tail line come from regenerative farms where the cattle are 100% grass-fed and free to roam on pastures. We gently freeze dry the organs raw to maintain as many of the nutrients and enzymes within them. Each jar contains 180, 500mg capsules (30 day supply).Beef BrainEating whole animals, nose-to-tail, was a way of life for humans for the majority of our existence up until recent history. In the past people believed that consuming the organ of a healthy animal would strengthen and enhance the health of their own corresponding organ. For example, if someone was struggling with with cognitive function such as memory or focus, they would be fed brain. Interestingly, this is just now being validated by science. Research conducted at the University of Edinburgh in animal models has shown conclusively that when eaten, organs and glands selectively travel to the corresponding organs of the consumer in high concentrations. Therefore when the brain of an animal is consumed, the unique fatty acids, growth factors and micronutrients within it, which are key for cognitive function, travel to your own brain. Having a higher concentration of these compounds in your brain gives you the raw materials to support functions such as; focus, memory, mood and speed of thought.Indigenous people also appreciated that animals gave their lives to ensure us as humans could survive and thrive so they left nothing go to waste. And because of their deep connection with the earth and their own bodies they intuitively knew just how nutrient dense organ meat is and would prise this over muscle meats. Fast forward to today and the immense powers of organs have somewhat been forgotten. What was once highly sought after is now rarely consumed and generally people no longer enjoy the taste. We created our nose-to-tail line to help people reintroduce these ancestral superfoods, loaded with nutrients in an easy to consume and flavourless way.HOW TO USEConsume 3- 6 capsules per day (1500-3000mg)WHEN TO USETake 3-6 capsules per day, ideally in the morning to flood your body with micronutrients for the day ahead. Each jar contains 180 capsules and each capsule is 500mg.Ingredients: Grass-Fed Beef Brain (67%), Grass-Fed Beef Liver (33%), Bovine Gelatine (Capsule). *All our organs come from a regenerative farm where the cattle are grass-fed and roam on pastures
The Energy Blueprint
The Energy Blueprint - Ultra Brain 150caps
£74.00
£99.00
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM ULTRABRAIN
Improved mood (combat depressed mood and increase joy)
Improved focus and cognitive performance
Improved brain energy levels
Decreased brain fog (improved clarity)
Decreased anxiety
Stimulant-free brain boosting action
Long-term decreased risk of neurodegenerative diseases
DO YOU HAVE ANY (OR ALL) OF THESE SYMPTOMS?Brain-Related fatigue - Feeling fatigued, exhausted, or sleepy after doing something mentally demanding
Chronic low-energy - waking up feeling groggy, feeling tired throughout the day, relying on caffeine or stimulants to keep you alert
Brain fog - a type of cognitive dysfunction that includes memory problems, lack of ability to concentrate, and lack of mental clarity
Anxiety or depression - persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, guilt, hopelessness, worry, or pessimism
Sleep problems - racing thoughts at bedtime or inability to fall asleep quickly, waking up in the night - sometimes repeatedly, insomnia
Loss of resiliency - inability to handle and recover from stress
Whether you suffer from one or all of these issues, you must understand this critical truth: These symptoms are NOT a normal thing, and they're NOT just a normal part of aging!
HERE'S THE REALITY
These symptoms are present because you actually have damaged, inflamed, or dysfunctional neurons in your brain more specifically, you have:
Leaky blood-brain barrier – a shockingly common issue where the protective wall between your brain and bloodstream breaks down when it becomes leaky, things get into the brain that shouldn’t be there.
Mitochondrial dysfunction/shutdown – mitochondria are your cellular energy generators and danger sensors, but, mitochondria cannot be in both energy mode and cell defense mode. When your mitochondria are weak, they are constantly trying to sense danger and can’t produce energy.
Neuroinflammation – cells in your brain called microglia, which sort of function as your brain’s immune system, are activated too frequently and become stuck in the on position, as a result, they produce inflammatory compounds and oxidative damage.
LET'S FIX THE DAMAGED NEURONS IN YOUR BRAIN!
You CAN seal your blood-brain barrier, heal your mitochondria, and reduce the inflammation in your brain!
You CAN reverse your brain-related fatigue, brain fog, anxiety and depression, loss of resilience, and sleep issues!
To do this you must:
Nourish your imbalanced brain with a wide range of nutrients – nutrients that are scientifically proven to fix your neurons
Reverse cellular dysfunction
Reduce inflammation
Rewire your brain out of fatigue, stress, and depression mode
WHY THESE SPECIFIC NUTRIENTS?
The result is a very carefully curated formulation that meets these unparalleled standards:
Absolutely zero pseudo-sciences, facts, or false marketing. Pure science in every serving
Each ingredient is in its most potent, bioavailable form. Really nothing else can outperform these brain-boosting compounds.
Effective dosages in each and every serving. 6 capsules a day is everything you need to help reverse cellular dysfunction and supercharge your mental capacity
THE PERFECT FORMULATION
15 Premium, carefully sourced ingredients in effective dosages.
RHODIOLA ROSEA
Stabilizes mood
Reduces anxiety and depression
Improves cognitive performance
Reduces feelings of exhaustion, irritability, and burnout
Increases resilience (resistance to stress)
Functions as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
Fast-acting
Rhodiola is a neuroprotective, cognitive enhancing, and mood stabilizing herb that promotes neuronal regeneration, functions as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, facilitates neurotransmission, and regulates several key mediators of the stress response [1–3].
The effects are rapid. In adults with chronic work- and life-related stress, rhodiola significantly reduced feelings of exhaustion, irritability, and anxiety in as little as three days [4].
In a study of working adults suffering from burnout, a third of whom had been unsuccessfully treated for their stress in the past, rhodiola improved every aspect of quality of life and perceived stress after just 1 week, with further improvements seen after 12 weeks [5].
In adults with chronic fatigue syndrome, rhodiola improved every aspect of fatigue after just 1 week, with further improvements seen after 8 weeks [6]. Ultimately, 83% of the participants reported “very much” or “much” improved conditions, with every aspect of fatigue, stress, and global impairment being cut in half.
Improvements in perceived stress, mental fatigue, cognitive performance, anxiety, and depression have also been noted in medical students [7], military cadets [8], and adults with stress-related fatigue [9], mild anxiety [10], and mild-to-moderate depression [11,12].
LION'S MANE POWDER
Reduces anxiety and depression
Helps improve memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function
Promotes nerve growth and regeneration in the brain
Reduces inflammation
Stabilizes mood
Restores key neurotransmitters
Lion’s mane mushroom (Yamabushitake or Hericium erinaceus) is a medicinal mushroom that has been extensively studied for its neurohealth properties [13,14].
Stimulates the production of nerve growth factor [15–17], which promotes neuronal growth, development, and regeneration [18].
Stimulates the production of brain derived neurotrophic factor [19], which has neuroprotective effects, plays a role in neuronal development, and helps in the formation of neuronal connections important for memory and cognition [20].
Restores levels of serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine levels in the brain that can be suppressed due to chronic stress [19].
Reduces neuroinflammation [19,21]
Clinical trials have shown that lion’s manse improves cognitive function by 12% compared to placebo in older adults with mild cognitive impairment [22], and reduces symptoms of anxiety (by 27%) and depression (by 39%) in adults with obesity [23].
ALPHA-GPC
Protects neurons in the brain and supports neurotransmission
Increases dopamine and serotonin signaling in the brain
Decreases risk of vascular dementia
More effective than Alzheimer drug (Aricept) at improving cognition
Alpha-glycerophosphocholine (Alpha-GPC) is a highly bioavailable source of choline for the brain [24], which plays a critical role in neuronal plasticity, membrane stability, signaling events, and neurotransmission [25].
Having adequate brain choline concentrations is neuroprotective against a variety of brain diseases [26], and numerous clinical trials have found that alpha-GPC improves cognitive function and memory in individuals with neurodegenerative disorders, vascular dementia, and stroke — even being more effective than the standard drug therapy for Alzheimer’s disease [27].
CHOLINE (COGNIZIN®)
Promotes the health of cell membranes
Improves memory and overall brain cognition
Improves motor function
Increases focus and reduces impulsive behavior
Improves neuroplasticity (helps the brain adapt to new situations)
CDP-choline is a bioavailable source of choline for the brain and the direct precursor for the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine [28,29], one of the most abundant and important structural components of cell membranes. Supplementation has been confirmed in humans to increase phosphatidylcholine synthesis within the brain [30,31].
A Cochrane Systematic Review of 14 double-blind, placebo-controlled trials involving older adults with cognitive deficits like dementia reported that CDP-choline was able to improve memory, correct abnormal behaviors, and increase the global impression that physicians have towards the participants [32].
Other studies have found that CDP-choline slows the deterioration of cognition in those with Alzheimer’s disease [33,34], improves motor function and attention in adolescents [35], and improves attention in healthy women [36].
BACOPA
Enhances short-term and long-term memory
Enhances learning, visual processing, cognitive performance
Improves mood and reduces depression and anxiety
Reduces oxidative stress
Neuroprotective
Reduces β-amyloid deposits
Enhances communication between neurons
Increases blood flow
Bacopa monnieri is an Ayurvedic swamp plant (Brahmi) traditionally used for the enhancement of memory and cognition, as well as a general brain tonic. Its bioactive constituents, the bacosides, have numerous biological effects within the brain that facilitate this use [37–41]:
Reduces oxidative stress and increases antioxidant enzyme activity
Reduces inflammation
Neuroprotective
Reduces β-amyloid deposition
Increases the growth of nerve endings to enhance neuronal communication
Increase blood flow and the delivery of oxygen and nutrients
Numerous clinical trials have found that bacopa supplementation improves working memory, attention, learning rate, information processing, and a variety of other cognitive outcomes in healthy elderly adults [42–44], healthy middle-aged adults [45,46], young medical students [47], and adults with Alzheimer’s disease [48].
GINKGO BILOBA
Neuroprotective
Improves memory and cognitive performance
Works as an antioxidant
Counteracts cognitive impairment
Improves neuroplasticity
Preserves brain receptors in aging adults
Ginkgo biloba possesses neuroprotective and antioxidant effects that preserve brain receptors susceptible to age-related loss, counteract cognitive impairment, enhance neuronal plasticity, and improve memory [49].
A systematic review of 12 meta-analyses found that ginkgo biloba improves cognitive performance, activities of daily living, and clinical global impression in the treatment of dementia [50], provided that at least 240 mg was used daily for several months [51].
COFFEE FRUIT (COGNATIQ™)
Increases Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)
Powerful antioxidant
Improves neuroplasticity
Helps to grow new neurons and prevent neurodegeneration
Improves long-term memory
CognatiQ™ is a patented extract of the whole coffee fruit, including both the coffee bean and the fruiting body surrounding it, which contains many powerful antioxidant compounds [52,53].
Clinical studies in healthy adults have shown that CognatiQ™ nearly doubles concentrations of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) after 1–2 hours [54,55], beating out other forms of coffee bioactives, caffeine, and the phytochemical-rich grape seed extract.
BDNF is a key protein involved in brain health, well established to be critical for:
Neuroplasticity (helps the brain adapt to new situations) [56].
Neurogenesis (the growth, regeneration and creation of new neurons and synapses) [57,58].
Long-term memory [59].
Prevention of neurodegeneration [60].
HUPERZINE A
Promotes learning
Used for centuries to treat brain-based illnesses
Improves cognition, especially in people with Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia
Naturally occurring acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (primary class of drugs for treating Alzheimer’s and dementia)
Huperzine-A is a naturally occurring acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, which functions to inhibit the enzyme that degrades acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter responsible for learning new information [61].
A meta-analysis of 20 randomized controlled trials found that huperzine A supplementation improves cognitive function, daily living activity, and global clinical assessments over 8–36 weeks [62]. Other meta-analyses have reported that huperzine A improves cognition in those with vascular dementia [63], as well as in those with major depression [64].
ACETYL-L CARNITINE
Improves brain function, especially memory and attention
Reduces oxidative stress
Protects against β-amyloid neurotoxicity
Reduces mental and physical fatigue
Reduces depression – more effective than antidepressant drugs! (And with far fewer side effects)
Reduces pain and increases nerve conduction
Prevents progression of brain-related disease
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is a special form of carnitine that achieves two goals: (1) it supplies the carnitine your mitochondria need to produce energy, and (2) it provides an acetyl moiety that your mitochondria use to remain youthful and healthy.
ALCAR easily crosses the blood-brain barrier and preserves mitochondrial function within the brain that otherwise deteriorates with aging [65–69]. Notably, ALCAR concentrations slowly decline as cognitive impairment progresses, ultimately being 36% lower in Alzheimer’s patients than healthy adults [70].
A meta-analysis of 21 randomized controlled trials involving patients with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease found that ALCAR significantly improved cognitive function and prevented the progression of Alzheimer’s after as little as 3 months [71].
In elderly adults suffering from excessive fatigue, ALCAR improved cognitive function by 15%, reduced mental and physical fatigue by 43–52%, and improved the ability to function in daily life by 24% [72].
A meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials found 3 g/d of ALCAR to significantly reduce depressive symptoms with an efficacy similar to antidepressant drugs, but with far less side effects [73].
SAFFRON EXTRACT
As effective as prescription drugs (with less side effects) in:
Reducing depression
Treating obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
Improving cognitive function
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
Neuroprotective
Saffron is one of the most well-researched antidepressant compounds available, with three separate meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials indicating that 30 mg/d has a potency comparable to prescription drugs but with less side effects [74–76].
Other studies have shown that saffron is as effective as prescription drugs for treating obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) [77], and boosts cognitive function to the same extent as prescription drugs in those with Alzheimer’s disease [78,79].
L-THEANINE
L-theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid found in tea that alters neurotransmitter signaling within the brain. After consumption, it crosses the blood-brain barrier, interferes with excitatory glutamate signaling, stimulates dopamine release, and promotes inhibitory neurotransmission, thereby helping promote a state of relaxation [80,81].
Electroencephalography (EEG) studies have shown that theanine shifts brain waves towards alpha oscillatory patterns indicative of a relaxed state, particularly in those with high levels of baseline anxiety [82–86]. Accordingly, several studies have found that theanine supplementation improves feelings of relaxation, tension, calmness, and anxiety in the hours following [87,88].
AGMATINE SULFATE
Important neurotransmitter
Improves learning and memory
Reduces anxiety and depression
Protects neurons and enhances cell growth
Protects mitochondria
More effective at relieving pain than conventional medications
Agmatine is a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator (affects neurotransmission of entire neurons) that has anti-seizure, anti-pain, anti-anxiety, and antidepressant effects; modulates some of the processes involved in learning and memory; and interacts with the mechanisms of drug withdrawal [89].
Preliminary research has shown that agmatine supplementation causes a “total/incontrovertible remission of depression” without apparent adverse effects in those who were not responsive to conventional treatments [90].
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of individuals with back pain from herniated lumbar discs, agmatine reduced pain by 25–28% and improved parameters of general health by 65–76% after just two weeks [91].
POLYGALA TENUIFOLIA
Improves memory and combats forgetfulness
Supports neurotransmitters required for learning, memory, and mental health
Promotes growth of new neurons in the brain
Increases neuroplasticity and cognitive function
Polygala tenuifolia is one of the fundamental herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine, used to improve memory and combat forgetfulness with aging [92], which it does by:
Inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline, neurotransmitters required for learning new information, memory storage, and overall mental health [93,94].
Increasing the expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is fundamental for neuroplasticity and neurogenesis [95].
Promoting the growth of new neurons in the brain [96].
In a clinical trial of healthy adults, Polygala tenuifolia improved spatial, verbal, and working memories [97]. In a separate randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of elderly adults, Polygala tenuifolia improved cognitive function by 5–10% [98].
N-ACETYL-L-TYROSINE
Critical for stress management
Boosts cognition, alertness, and information processing
Improves memory and mental health
L-tyrosine is a conditionally essential amino acid that serves as the precursor molecule from which we create the catecholamines: dopamine, adrenaline, and noradrenaline. Your brain needs a steady supply of tyrosine to make the catecholamines and keep your mental health at its peak [99,100], particularly if you are under a lot of stress [101].
Several clinical trials have shown that L-tyrosine supplementation boosts cognition, alertness, and memory in stressful and demanding situations in otherwise healthy adults [102,103], such as those who skimp on their sleep [104], undergo intense physical training [105], or those who endure extreme temperatures [106].
MAGNESIUM TAURATE
Over 300 enzymes require magnesium to function properly!
Required for optimal nerve transmission
Protects against cell death
Prevents mitochondrial dysfunction
Prevents migraines
Improves anxiety and depression
Slows development of and severity of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s
Reduces risk of stroke
Magnesium is required for over 300 enzymes to function properly [107]. Within the brain and nervous system, magnesium is required for optimal nerve transmission and protection against excitotoxicity (excessive excitation leading to cell death) [108,109].
A systematic review of magnesium’s role in neurological disorders found that it plays an important role in the prevention of migraines, treatment of anxiety and depression, severity of Parkinson’s disease, development of Alzheimer’s disease, and protection against stroke [110].
But, not all forms of magnesium are the same. Magnesium taurate demonstrates a superior ability to enter into the brain and increase the brain’s magnesium status compared to other forms [111,112].
References
Bulletproof
Bulletproof - Brain Octane C8 MCT OIL 32oz
£48.95
Sourced purely from coconuts, Brain Octane C8 MCT Oil converts into brain-powering, fat-burning ketone energy. It helps control cravings and improves cognitive performance to keep you sharp.† Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil is flavorless, so add it to smoothies, salad dressings, Bulletproof Coffee and more.
MORE BRAIN POWER
Improves cognitive performance to give you a rapid, long-lasting brain boost
INCREASED ENERGY
Brain Octane MCT oil metabolizes quickly and efficiently into ketone energy, which fuels your body without a crash
FEWER CRAVINGS
Brain Octane oil helps turn cravings off and lets you focus on being awesome
INCREASED FAT BURNING
Jumpstarts your metabolic rate to increase fat burning
WHAT IS BRAIN OCTANE OIL?
100% caprylic acid triglycerides from coconut oil
Pure caprylic acid harvested from the most ketogenic part of the coconut
Caprylic acid, a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT), is an energizing, easy-to-digest quality fat
SUPERCHARGE YOUR BRAIN
Rapidly and efficiently converts into brain-boosting, fat-burning ketone energy
Ketones power your brain and can't be stored as fat, unlike carbs and sugar
GO HARD, ALL DAY WITH BULLETPROOF BRAIN OCTANE OIL
Easy-to-digest caprylic acid fuels your cells more efficiently than coconut oil does
Converts into energizing ketones that start powering your mind and body within minutes
No cravings or energy crashes
EASY TO USE BRAIN OCTANE OIL
Bulletproof Brain Octane oil is completely flavorless and easy to pour. No coconut flavor means it's a great substitute for other oils.
Blend it into Bulletproof Coffee or tea
Add to smoothies and shakes
Drizzle it over your favorite meals
Use to make salad dressings, sauces, and marinades
Natural Stacks
Acetylcholine Brain Food 60caps (Natural Stacks)
£39.95
Acetylcholine Brain Food™ is designed to promote the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential to mental processing. Research suggests that the natural compounds in Acetylcholine Brain Food™ are associated with memory and cognitive function.†
Improved attention to detail†
Better mental clarity†
Faster thinking†
Cuts through brain fog†
Suggested Use
Take a serving of 2-4 capsules to support mental processing speed, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.
Do not exceed 8 capsules per day.
U.S.A. manufactured in a cGMP facility. Natural Stacks proudly uses only the highest quality ingredients.
Details:
To make acetylcholine, the brain needs two elements: an acetyl group and a choline molecule.
An acetyl group is a type of simple molecular building block of organic chemistry with a chemical formula of C2H30. The acetyl group is usually present in the brain as Acetyl-CoA. Choline and the acetyl group are grouped together by the enzyme Choline Acetyltransferase (ChAT). They are both stored in neurons, released, and then broken down by another enzyme called acetylcholinesterase (AchE). To increase levels of acetylcholine, we use the following approach:
Create more acetyl-CoA molecules to provide acetyl groups to ChAT for acetylcholine production.
Provide more choline in choline producing (cholinergic) neurons for use by ChAT.
Increase or upregulate the activity of ChAT.
Decrease the activity of AchE.
Acetylcholine Brain Food™ contains the essential raw materials for the brain to increase production, achieve balance, and maintain prolonged activity of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine -- the Learning Molecule.
Research:
De jesus moreno moreno M. Cognitive improvement in mild to moderate Alzheimer's dementia after treatment with the acetylcholine precursor choline alfoscerate: a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Clin Ther. 2003;25(1):178-93. PMID 12637119
Szutowicz A, Bielarczyk H, Jankowska-kulawy A, Pawełczyk T, Ronowska A. Acetyl-CoA the key factor for survival or death of cholinergic neurons in course of neurodegenerative diseases. Neurochem Res. 2013;38(8):1523-42. PMID 23677775
Houten SM, Wanders RJ. A general introduction to the biochemistry of mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation. J Inherit Metab Dis. 2010;33(5):469-77. 20195903
Arsenio L, Bodria P, Magnati G, Strata A, Trovato R. Effectiveness of long-term treatment with pantethine in patients with dyslipidemia. Clin Ther. 1986;8(5):537-45. PMID 3094958
Malaguarnera M, Gargante MP, Cristaldi E, et al. Acetyl L-carnitine (ALC) treatment in elderly patients with fatigue. Arch Gerontol Geriatr. 2008;46(2):181-90. PMID 17658628
Natural Stacks
NEUROFUEL™ Nootropic Stack – 45 caps (Natural Stacks) (previously CILTEP™)
£34.95
CILTEP® is a natural dietary supplement designed to improve and maintain brain performance, especially memory, focus, and motivation. It is a new natural nootropic created from the combination of artichoke extract and forskolin, and it works synergistically with choline-boosting nootropic stacks like Alpha BRAIN™.CILTEP, which stands for 'Chemically Induced Long-Term Potentiation,' improves healthy learning and memory in the brain by supporting and optimizing levels of intracellular second messengers.Many users say it produces a powerful effect similar to Modafinil. CILTEP works best for people who need to learn a lot of new material, focus intently on a task or series of tasks over a period of several hours.Warning:Do not consume nicotine or prescription stimulants with CILTEP. Do not use if pregnant, nursing, or under the age of 18. Consult with a healthcare practitioner before taking this or any nutritional supplement if you have or suspect a medical condition, are taking any medications, or other non-Natural Stacks™ dietary supplements. Do not use if safety seal is broken or missing. Store in a cool dry place. KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.
For optimal mental performance, take a serving of 2-3 capsules immediately upon waking on an empty stomach. Do not take more than 3 capsules per day. Users typically experience results for 8-14 hours.
Unlike other nootropics on the market, a CILTEP stack works inside the cell to naturally induce Long-Term Potentiation (LTP), a state of increased neuron connectivity.
For biohackers, here are the primary mechanisms by which CILTEP induces LTPLong-Term Potentiation (LTP) is a long-lasting enhancement in signal transmission between two neurons that results from stimulating them both at the same time. LTP is one of the major cellular mechanisms behind learning and memory. Memories are formed or 'encoded' in the brain by creating LTP.ARTSKOLIN achieves LTP by: 1. Inhibiting Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4), and 2. Increasing cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP).
1. PDE4 InhibitionPDE4 is an enzyme that breaks down cAMP molecules, messenger systems that relay signals in the brain.Inhibition of PDE4 blocks the breakdown of cAMP, thereby increasing levels of cAMP within brain cells. PDE4 inhibitors have been shown to have significant nootropic effects including increased cognition , improved long term memory, increased wakefulness, and neuroprotection.
Artichoke Extract is known to be the safest and most effective PDE4 Inhibitor.There are other herbal supplements that can also perform PDE4 Inhibition but they have all been found to have significant side effects. CILTEP has 900 mg of high quality Artichoke Extract in each serving.
2. Increasing cAMPAn herbal supplement named Forskolin (active compound extracted from the root of the Coleus Forskohlii plant) is the only known supplement to naturally increase cAMP levels. It has been used for thousands of years in traditional Indian Aryuvedic medicine. Forskolin activates the enzyme adenylyl cyclase which increases intracellular levels of cAMP.CILTEP features premium Coleus Forskohlii that is standardized for 20% Forskolin. There are 4 mg of Forskolin in each serving of CILTEP.
Increasing cAMP and inhibiting its degradation (through PDE4 Inhibition) induces Long-Term Potentiation (LTP). The result is an overall improvement of cognitive function, especially memory formation and retention of new information.
3. LTP & DopamineThis regimen makes normal dopamine metabolism more effective at triggering the motivation, learning, and memory processes. Meanwhile, the chemical dynamics of the dopamine system are preserved, which avoids all negative side effects associated with using traditional dopamine stimulation (such as Adderall or Ritalin).
Research has shown that increased intracellular cAMP increases the rate of dopamine synthesis. We include Vitamin B6 and the natural dopamine precursor L-Phenylalanine to the CILTEP formula to keep your brain well stocked with the building blocks of dopamine. L-Phenylalanine (pronounced feen-ull-AL-uh-neen) is an amino acid found in some foods that the brain uses to make dopamine and it synergizes perfectly with Artichoke Extract and Forskolin, reducing fatigue and creating long lasting results with a lift in mood
References:1.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/166722922.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/84214943.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/166722924.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2704616/5.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/98440086.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/97009667.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/113884388.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/173980019.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2096957310.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1706435211.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2761676
For more resources on the science of CILTEP, please visit:CILTEP Whitepaper by Abelard Lindsay
Feel Younger
Feel Younger - Brain Boost Plus 60caps
£29.00
Would you like…
To Focus more Easily
Improved Cognition
Better Brain Function
Improved Memory
Sharper Thinking
Increased Alertness
Improved Mood
If so, you may want to give our Brain Boost Plus, Neuro Brain and Focus Formula a try!The combinations of ingredients found in this supplement can potentially also give you:
Antioxidant support
Anti-inflammatory support
Increased energy
Improved skin health
Improved eye health
Blood pressure support
Improved heart health
Boosted immunity
Better bone health
Blood sugar regulation
Why is it important to support your brain?The brain is arguably the most important organ in your body - without it, we wouldn’t be able to carry out any of our daily functions.The brain controls our motor skills, vision, temperature, hunger, emotions, touch, thought and just about every process that helps to maintain and regulate our bodies [1].There are a variety of factors that can lead to your brain ageing prematurely, or becoming ‘unhealthy’, such as:
Lack of good quality sleep [2]
Poor diet & overeating [3]
Not enough exercise [4]
Smoking [5]
Obesity [6]
High blood pressure [7]
High cholesterol levels [8]
Social isolation [9]
Spending too much time in dimly lit environments [10]
Often overlooked, Deficiency or suboptimal levels of nutrients that are important to the brain will also contribute to inferior brain health.
Can you test for an ‘unhealthy’ brain?There are a variety of tests that can be used in different situations to help determine if something serious is going on with your brain.Some of these include:Balance testCT scan (computed tomography)EEG (electroencephalography)ElectromyographyMRI (magnetic resonance imaging)MRA (magnetic resonance angiography - a type of MRI scan)And more.However, as these tests are generally expensive and hard to get, most people rely on evaluating symptoms such as decreased memory, focus and clarity of thinking.Speak to your physician to determine the best course of action if you have any concerns.The Top 9 Ways to Support Your Brain:To keep your brain functioning at optimal capacity, there are some lifestyle changes that you can make:
Get enough good quality sleep, every night. For most adults, this is 7-8 hours of deep uninterrupted sleep. If sleep is something you struggle with, check out our Sleep Aid Ultra page.
Eat an organic diet with plenty of high nutrient density foods. This will provide your brain with most of the nutrients and minerals it needs for optimal function.
Exercise regularly. Half an hour of physical activity most days, or around 150 minutes a week.
Stop smoking.
Maintain a healthy weight, and don’t overeat. Even too much healthy food can lead to weight gain.
Minimize stress and lower your blood pressure. Meditating is a great way to reduce stress, and try natural supplements, such as our 5 HTP, Serenity Anti-Stress Support, Saffron Pure Extract OR Organic Ashwagandha with Black Pepper.
Socialize more often.
Spend more time in natural light and brighter lit rooms earlier in the day.
Provide your brain with minerals and vitamins that are essential for it to function optimally:
Vitamin A - Vitamin A is crucial to brain function, behavior and learning [11].Vitamin C - Your brain requires huge amounts of oxygen to function, which means it is extremely susceptible to oxidative stress. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and helps to reduce oxidative stress [12].Calcium - Calcium is essential for optimal blood flow to the brain [13].Vitamin D - Essential for brain health, deficiency in Vitamin D can contribute to brain fog, low mood and can impact cognitive health [14].Magnesium - Optimal levels of magnesium in the body is crucial for brain health. Deficiency of magnesium (or low levels of) is commonly found in people who are stressed [15].Vitamin B1 - A deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1) can contribute to increased confusion, can be of detriment to your ability to think clearly as well as reducing your awareness of your surroundings [16].Vitamin B2 - Riboflavin vitamin b2) can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress to nerves in the brain, both of which can contribute to headaches and migraines [17].Vitamin B3 - Niacin (vitamin B3) is another B vitamin that plays an important role in the health of your brain. It’s involved in making and repairing DNA, cell signaling and acts as an antioxidant [18].Folate - Suboptimal mental function can be linked to low folic acid (folate) levels in the blood.A randomized controlled trial over 2 years showed that 400mg folic acid supplementation improved measures of brain function and decreased blood levels of proteins that are linked to Alzheimer’s disease [19].Selenium - Selenium is a powerful antioxidant [20], and people with Alzheimer’s have been found to have lower levels of selenium in their blood [21].Copper - Essential for brain function, too much or too little copper in the body can be linked with neurodegeneration [22].Manganese - Manganese is required for many functions in the body, which includes normal brain and nervous system function.It’s another powerful antioxidant (potentially one of the most important) [23] that can help to protect your brain against free radicals, as well as improving your brain function [24].Potassium - Potassium plays an important role in the cardiovascular system, helping to get blood to the brain [25].Choline - Choline is needed to produce a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which is crucial to regulate intelligence, mood and memory [26].Grape Seed Extract - Grapes contain flavonoids, which possess powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that grape seed extract may help to improve cognitive status and antioxidant levels in the brain, while preventing memory loss [27].GABA - GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid) is an amino acid that functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain. When GABA attaches to a GABA receptor in the brain, it has a calming effect [28].Bilberry Fruit Extract - Bilberry fruit extracts have been shown to help improve memory (both working and long-term) in older adults [29].And many more!We understand that it’s not always easy, nor is it practical to implement a variety of lifestyle changes at once.We’d advise that you make as many of those changes listed further up this page as possible, but to do so 1 or 2 at a time, make sure they stick and then implement a couple more.In the meantime, you can support your body with the essential nutrients and minerals it needs that can help you to boost your brain's function.That’s why we’ve included the above ingredients into our Brain Boost Plus formula, and included other minerals and vitamins that we think are worth taking to support the health of your brain, such as:
Vitamin E [30], Iron [31], Biotin [32], Vitamin B5 [33], Vitamin B6 [34], Zinc [35], Chromium [36], Molybdenum [37], DMAE Bitartrate [38], L-glutamine [39], Green Tea Extract [40], Bacopa Extract [41], Inositol [42], N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine [43], Olive Leaf [44], Cinnamon Bark Extract [45], Licorice Root Extract [46], Boron [47], DHA [48], Vanadyl [49], Phosphatidylserine [50], Huperzine A [51].
By combining the ingredients listed on this page, with our unique proprietary blend in an easy to swallow capsule, we’ve taken the stress out of buying each of these ingredients separately, researching and experimenting how much of each you should take and then incorporating them into your diet/supplement regime.Here at Feel younger, we believe in providing strong doses at reasonable prices. Our Brain Boost Plus capsules provide a 1,004 mg dose that will cost you no more than $29, with discounts available on multiple bottle and subscription purchases.How Do You Take Feel Younger® Brain Boost Plus, Neuro Brain and Focus Formula?Take two capsules a day with your morning meal.Any Cautions?ALWAYS consult a healthcare professional before taking any new supplements.
Scientific References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279302/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6143346/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5437759/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3258000/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3543069/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7598577/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/blood-pressure-and-your-brain
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6844833/
https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/social-isolation-loneliness-older-people-pose-health-risks
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32933226/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3169332/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2649700/
https://www.medschool.umaryland.edu/news/2021/University-of-Maryland-School-of-Medicine-Study-Finds-Calcium-Precisely-Directs-Blood-Flow-in-the-Brain.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6970300/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7761127/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3659035/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772032/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26828517/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29255930/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19033020/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24668390/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0301008214000124
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22072939/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12505649/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23558164/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252552/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21871550/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4231020/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6024810/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4276978/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6789770/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772032/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772032/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772032/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7728061/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20423560/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15207438/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/864168/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7760805/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28899506/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3153866/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7554709/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6084775/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8074804/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4466762/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5974064/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7889884/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4772061/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7077345/
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04920305
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3930088/
Bulletproof
Bulletproof - Brain Octane C8 MCT OIL 16oz
£24.95
Sourced purely from coconuts, Brain Octane C8 MCT Oil converts into brain-powering, fat-burning ketone energy. It helps control cravings and improves cognitive performance to keep you sharp.† Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil is flavorless, so add it to smoothies, salad dressings, Bulletproof Coffee and more.
MORE BRAIN POWER
Improves cognitive performance to give you a rapid, long-lasting brain boost
INCREASED ENERGY
Brain Octane MCT oil metabolizes quickly and efficiently into ketone energy, which fuels your body without a crash
FEWER CRAVINGS
Brain Octane oil helps turn cravings off and lets you focus on being awesome
INCREASED FAT BURNING
Jumpstarts your metabolic rate to increase fat burning
WHAT IS BRAIN OCTANE OIL?
100% caprylic acid triglycerides from coconut oil
Pure caprylic acid harvested from the most ketogenic part of the coconut
Caprylic acid, a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT), is an energizing, easy-to-digest quality fat
SUPERCHARGE YOUR BRAIN
Rapidly and efficiently converts into brain-boosting, fat-burning ketone energy
Ketones power your brain and can't be stored as fat, unlike carbs and sugar
GO HARD, ALL DAY WITH BULLETPROOF BRAIN OCTANE OIL
Easy-to-digest caprylic acid fuels your cells more efficiently than coconut oil does
Converts into energizing ketones that start powering your mind and body within minutes
No cravings or energy crashes
EASY TO USE BRAIN OCTANE OIL
Bulletproof Brain Octane oil is completely flavorless and easy to pour. No coconut flavor means it's a great substitute for other oils.
Blend it into Bulletproof Coffee or tea
Add to smoothies and shakes
Drizzle it over your favorite meals
Use to make salad dressings, sauces, and marinades
Organixx
Organixx Brain Health 8 60 vegicaps (Previously Ageless Brain)
£69.95
BENEFITS OF
Helps maintain healthy brain inflammation levels*
Encourages new brain cell growth*
Supports healthy neurons for better memory power*
Protects the brain from free radical damage*
Aids healthy blood flow & oxygen levels*
Promotes a calm, focused mind & balanced moods*
PRODUCT DETAILS
8-in-1 complete brain health supplement
Made from wild-sourced and organic brain-boosting botanicals
Formulated by natural health visionary “Amazon John” Easterling
Ingredients responsibly sourced from a nature preserve in the Amazon rainforest
Non-GMO; No artificial flavors, preservatives, colors, fillers, or additives
3rd-Party Tested to ensure free from pesticides, glyphosate, and heavy metals
Ingredients
Organic Cat’s Claw Powder
This ancient herbal remedy has been used for 2,000 years as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Studies show it can help repair damaged DNA and strengthen the communication (synapses) between neurons. Plus, it can also help grow new brain cells by boosting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
Organic Bacopa Monnieri Powder
An amazing natural brain booster that speeds up reaction time and improves memory, bacopa also helps improve mood by decreasing feelings of anxiety and depression. It’s been shown to help increase BDNF for new brain cell growth and reduce amyloid plaque (a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease) in the brain.
Organic Pau d’Arco
A powerful antifungal, pau d’arco contains a compound called lapachol that can be deadly against certain viruses, bacteria, fungi (including Candida), parasites, and more. It’s also a major anti-inflammatory that helps protect brain cells by blocking key enzymes that can contribute to brain inflammation.
Dragon’s Blood Resin Extract
Beneficial for banishing brain fog and improving memory recall, dragon’s blood is a dark red, thick tree sap that’s one of the most powerful antioxidants in the world. Research shows it’s an amazing brain protector and neurogenic inflammation fighter, meaning it helps keep brain inflammation levels low.
Organic Camu Camu Powder
Camu camu contains one of the highest levels of vitamin C of any plant. Not only is vitamin C a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent free radical damage, it’s also essential for the “synthesis” of other important substances in the body – including brain neurotransmitters.
Organic Cinnamon
Not just a flavorful culinary spice, cinnamon is a real antioxidant powerhouse that is best known for helping to normalize blood sugar and reducing inflammation and pain. It contains two unique compounds: epicatechin and cinnamaldehyde, which have been shown to protect against age-related memory loss.
Organic Cacao Powder
Cacao is considered a mood-lifter as well as a “brain-builder” as it contains neurotransmitters that are associated with pleasure as well as motivation. It’s also a rich source of resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that helps to remove amyloid plaque from the brain.
Organic Guayusa Extract
With twice as many antioxidants as green tea and containing the neuroprotective amino acid L-theanine, guayusa improves age-related cognitive decline, protects brain cells against free radical damage, and reduces anxiety. It also contains small amounts of caffeine, which can produce a “calm focus” in individuals.
Bulletproof
Bulletproof - Neuromaster - 30 Caps
£55.95
Take one capsule in the morning with or without food.
Amount Per Serving (1 Capsule):
NeuroFactor™ Whole Coffee Fruit Extract – 200mg
Coffeeberry® Energy Coffee Fruit Extract – 71mg
Other Ingredients:
Rice flour, cellulose capsule, rice concentrate, l-leucine
Boost Your Brain
NeuroMaster™ contains an ingredient shown to significantly increase BDNF levels - key neuro-proteins for neuron creation and synaptic plasticity, and includes compounds that may improve memory and focus.
BDNF provides gold-standard brain nourishment
BDNF, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, is found in the brain – influencing where new neurons grow, and creating denser networks of brain cells. It also helps your brain cells connect with one another, building new neural pathways.
Is Your Brain Growing… Or Shrinking?
As we age, many of us normally begin to lose this key protein that supports our brains. In a study of adults between the ages of 59 and 81, lower levels of BDNF were associated with age-related hippocampal shrinkage and memory decline. (source)
Brain health made simple
We specifically formulated NeuroMaster™ to boost naturally occurring BDNF, and support brain health, memory and focus.
Naturally Sourced From Coffee Berries
All ingredients in NeuroMaster™ are laboratory-extracted from high-quality Arabica coffee fruit. One of these extracts alone has been shown in two separate double-blind, placebo-controlled studies to increase levels of BDNF. The other extract has 100% natural caffeine to jump-starts your day.
This Is Your Edge
Bulletproof™ supplements are backed by the most cutting-edge research, science, and technology to kick performance into overdrive. Sourced from the best, most bioavailable ingredients possible — all Bulletproof supplements are 100% non-GMO, soy, and gluten-free, with no artificial colors, added preservatives, or any other junk. They undergo strict lab testing to ensure they meet the rigorous quality standards of the Bulletproof Process™ — ensuring purity and potency. So you can focus on being more awesome, in every way.
Bulletproof
Bulletproof - Brain Octane 60 x Softgels
£16.95
Brain Octane Oil, when encapsulated, slows the digestion of Caprylic acid and spends more time in your gut, balancing beneficial bacteria and helping maintain normal yeast levels. Studies have shown that Caprylic fatty acids have gut biome balancing and potent microbial balancing effects that help to support healthy digestion and immune function.
Travel friendly Brain Octane Softgels go with you everywhere to support healthy digestion, cognitive function and provide a boost of energy from Bulletproof fats.
Brain Octane Softgels were created using the most upgraded methods and ingredients.
Made with Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil, our most effective C8 medium chain triglyceride found in the heart of the coconut. Brain Octane Oil undergoes the rigorous Bulletproof Process® and is extracted, cleaned and refined without the use of harsh chemicals.
Brain Octane Softgels contain the lowest particle size possible to support optimal absorption. The Caprylic fatty acid particles do not separate, but because it is a fat particle, it will change size and translucency depending on its temperature. It will be solid white at cool temperatures, and liquid clear in warmer temperatures. A cloudy or whiter appearance can be normal depending on environmental temperatures.
Optimum storage conditions for Brain Octane Softgels is 59 to 86 °F (15-30°C). Protect from extreme temperatures. Freezing & excessive heat may damage softgels.
Brain Octane Softgels Ingredients: Caprylic Acid Triglycerides (Brain Octane Oil), Bovine Gelatin, Glycerin, Oleic Acid (Derived from Olive Oil), Vitamin E (TPGS), Purified Water, Natural Flavor.
Natural Stacks
Serotonin Brain Food™ - 60 Capsules (Natural Stacks)
£39.95
Serotonin Brain Food™ highlights:
● Happier, more stable moods● Improved gut health, digestion and physical wellbeing● No artificial ingredients, no GMOs, no gluten.
What is “brain food”?
Neurochemistry - the chemical patterns and processes that cause your brain to function as it does - is highly complex. It varies significantly between individuals, and is heavily influenced by a large range of factors. Your diet, exercise habits, sun exposure, social group and genetics all have a role to play in your brain’s chemical behaviour.
Most of us do not get enough of everything we need every day to keep our brain function 100% optimized. That’s why supplementing with brain food can give you such an edge.
Brain food are natural nutrients that act as fuel for specific neurotransmitters in the brain. They can be taken daily to boost various states of optimal performance.
By addressing any deficiencies or imbalances in the delicate neurological system, you can increase your ability to concentrate, regulate your energy, and balance your mood.
The importance of Serotonin
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is associated with a sense of wellbeing and happiness, as well as a healthy appetite and digestive system, constricting smooth muscles, and transmitting impulses between nerve cells.
Abnormal serotonin levels can cause serious problems, such as osteoporosis, poor libido, nausea, migraines, obesity and Parkinson’s disease. Low levels are associated with depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive behavior.
Getting your serotonin levels balanced and in an optimal range can have a profound influence on your health and quality of life. When your serotonin is being produced at the optimal pace, you will feel calm and healthy. Your mood will be positive, stable, and well balanced.
Complete Neurotransmitter Support
The best way to optimize serotonin levels is to ensure that the necessary precursors and cofactors are available. These precursors and cofactors pave the way for your brain to produce and then use serotonin at an optimal rate for your particular physiology.
Serotonin Brain Food™ provides these essential compounds. It contains an amino acid precursor (L-Tryptophan), serotonin metabolism cofactors (Vitamin B-3, Zinc, & Magnesium), and an herbal extract to reduce cortisol (Rhodiola Rosea).
For A Positive Mood
SUGGESTED USE: Take a serving of 2-3 capsules to support a positive mood, during situations of stress or irritability, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner. Avoid use in the evening. Do not exceed 2 servings per day.
U.S.A manufactured in a cGMP facility. Natural Stacks proudly uses only the highest quality ingredients.
L-Tryptophan
As a precursor to serotonin, this essential amino acid is directly converted into 5-HTP. It’s found in many foods such as egg whites, soybean, and turkey.
Vitamin B-3 (Niacinamide)
An essential vitamin that is also a necessary cofactor for the proper catabolism of fat, carbohydrate, protein, and alcohol. It’s also closely involved in cell signaling and DNA repair. It’s used most extensively in the brain, gut and skin, which have a high cellular turnover rate. Our Vitamin B-3 source is a niacinamide, which has been carefully selected to be non-flushing - many other Vitamin B-3 sources are niacin, which can cause uncomfortable skin flushing.
Magnesium (Magnesium Glycinate)
Magnesium glycinate has a positive impact on attention, memory, and stress reduction. Utilizing the essential amino acid glycine, this form of magnesium has a calming effect on the brain.
Zinc (Zinc Glycinate)
Zinc glycinate is a critical factor in maintaining a healthy immune system. It supports optimal cell division and replication, improves healing times, and ensures proper growth patterns and sensory development.
Rhodiola Rosea
An herb native to the Arctic and northernmost parts of Europe and Central Asia, Rhodiola Rosea has been used in herbal medicine for many years. It’s associated with improvements in mood, reduced stress and depression, and overall increases in physical and mental well being and performance.
Serotonin Metabolism, by Abelard Lindsay
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter responsible for mood[1], fear[2], aggression[3] and anxiety[4]. It plays a large part in the digestive process as it interacts with neurons present in the gut[5]. Healthy serotonin levels allow one to be in the moment instead of becoming drawn into negative thought patterns.
Where does serotonin come from? It starts with tryptophan. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is a precursor to serotonin. It is found in many foods such as egg whites, soybean and turkey and is also available as a nutritional supplement[6].
It is converted into 5-HTP by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase(TH). TH is a key rate limiting enzyme that controls the production of 5-HTP in the body. TH comes in two variants. TPH1, which is present in the gut and the peripheral nervous system, and TPH2, which is primarily expressed in the central nervous system[7].
Serotonin outside the CNS is not particularly interesting for cognitive enhancement. It is however suspected that a lack or excess of serotonin in the digestive tract can lead to irritable bowel syndrome. Some drugs with antidepressant effects are actually used to control certain intractable digestive problems, presumably by having an effect on the neurochemical aspects of digestion[8].
Serotonin is an agonist for many different serotonin receptors in the brain. Many antidepressant drugs developed over the past 30 years, known as SSRIs, have been developed in order to keep serotonin active in the synaptic cleft by reducing the activity of the SERT enzyme[9].
The theory behind this is that stimulating serotonin receptors via increased synaptic serotonin will improve and alleviate depression[10]. Exercise, a well studied treatment for depression[11], has been investigated as a serotonin production enhancer through various mechanisms[12].
Serotonin is broken down and then processed into melatonin via methylation[13]. Melatonin is crucial for sleep. Methylation is also active in the dopamine system and breaks down norepinephrine to epinephrine. Supplementation of melatonin has been shown to increase serotonin in animal models[14].
Seasonal affective disorder, a form of depression caused by lack of sunlight in winter months, is tied to serotonin deficiency[15]. This is possibly due to excess melatonin production from serotonin as melatonin production is controlled by light exposure and the circadian rhythms[16].
Another system that has a profound effect on serotonin metabolism is regulated by the hormone cortisol.
Cortisol pathways, which are induced by stress, cause an increase in serotonin reuptake, possibly contributing to depression[17]. Increased cortisol also may increase the production of N-formyl-L-kynurenine by increasing the activity of tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase[18]. This pathway uses up L-Tryptophan in the eventual production of niacin instead of serotonin. Niacin is produced from tryptophan in competition with the serotonin pathway[19]. Supplementing niacin thus may free up tryptophan to be processed into serotonin.
Magnesium is important in processing serotonin[20]. A correlation has been shown between low magnesium levels and depression[21]. Experimental evidence has also shown that magnesium is needed as a cofactor of tryptophan hydroxylase, which converts tryptophan into 5-HTP, a serotonin precursor, and magnesium is also needed for binding serotonin[22]. It also increases activity at the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor.[23]
Zinc also enhances outcomes in unipolar depression[24]. The mechanism of action on serotonin is that it modulates uptake of serotonin into cells[25].
Herbs that have exhibited serotonin reuptake inhibition activity like St. John’s Wart[26] and herbs with observed MAO-A inhibition activity like resveratrol[27] are powerful increasers of serotonin and should only be used in situations where there is a significant deficiency. Berberine heavily influences the 5-HTT transporter[28] while having positive health benefits and being well tolerated over long periods of time.
Serotonin is a regular and reliable system that responds to supplementation and has positive effects on mood and energy. There’s a huge difference between low levels of serotonin and optimal levels in how you think, feel and perform.