Safe Nootropics

With a wide range of nootropics available on the market and many of them posing a severe risk to human health, it can be difficult for a beginner to identify a suitable nootropic agent. This article is intended to outline the potential dangers of nootropic agents and to provide a starting point for those who wish to safely boost their memory function and cognitive abilities.

Nootropic Risks

Dangers of unregulated nootropics include:

Seratonin Syndrome

A condition resulting from reaction to or overdose of certain psychoactive drugs. Seratonin syndrome affects cognitive abilities, involves potentially severe physical symptoms and can even result in death.

Physical Effects of Seratonin Syndrome:

• High blood pressure
• Increased heart rate
• Tremors
• Twitching
• Hypothermia
• Death

Mental Effects of Seratonin Syndrome:

• Mental confusion
• Hallucinations
• Delirium
• Coma

Other possible reactions to various chemical and natural nootropic agents include organ failure, psychosis and of course, death.

Are ‘Natural’ Nootropics Safer?

When choosing a suitable nootropic, be aware that ‘natural’ or ‘herbal’ nootropics may not always be safer than chemical drugs. Some unapproved nootropic agents are even marketed as being ‘nutritional supplements’ in an attempt to avoid regulation. Be sure to research any nootropic agent carefully prior to starting treatment. It is also wise to consult with your GP, especially if you suffer from any pre-existing medical conditions.

Safe Nootropics

As illustrated above, the potential for disaster when using nootropics is very real, so it pays to be safe when it comes to selecting a nootropic. The following nootropic agents have all been approved as safe by regulatory bodies such as the FDA. Please note that this is not intended to be an exhaustive list, rather a starting point for those seeking safe, proven substances to improve their cognitive abilities.

Piracetam

A common and effective nootropic, Piracetam is used to treat Alzheimer’s and Downs Syndrome. Though there are potential side effects, and Piracetam is not suitable for people with kidney failure, liver impairment and cerebral haemorrage, Piracetam is generally regarded as being safe.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a psychotropic nootropic agent which is used around the globe to increase alertness and ward off drowsiness. Caffeine is addictive, and if ingested in extremely large quantities can be deadly, however reasonable use is considered to be safe. Users should be aware that regular use will result in a mild addiction which can be responsible for withdrawal symptoms such as headaches and nausea if the regular caffeine dose is missed.

Vitamin B5

An essential nutrient, Vitamin 5 (also known as pantothenic acid) is considered to have nootropic effects. These nootropic effects arise from its role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters which facilitate cognitive functions.

If Vitamin B5 is not present in required amounts, a person may experience impaired cognitive abilities, not to mention unpleasant physical symptoms. Vitamin B5 is essential for good health, both mental and physical. It can be found in broccoli, avocado and meat. It is also available as a supplement.

Vitamin B5 has no known toxicity level and is therefore regarded as being an extremely safe nootropic agent.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Found in fish, Omega 3 fatty acids are another essential nutrient. Omega 3 fatty acids have been proven to boost cognitive functions and memory recall. In reasonable amounts, Omega 3 fatty acids pose no risk to human health, though in large amounts they can increase cholesterol, reduce glycemic control in diabetics and, if taken in very large doses, can lead to hemorrhagic strokes.

Green Tea

It may surprise you to learn that the popular beverage, tea, is actually something of a miracle drink. Studies have shown that elderly adults who drink two cups of tea per day are 50% less likely to experience degeneration of their cognitive abilities when compared to similarly elderly people who do not drink tea. Tea is a source of anti oxidants, which have the ability to lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. It also contains a plethora of other beneficial chemicals which promote health on all levels.

Those wishing to slow mental aging would do well to drink tea as part of their regular cognitive health regimen.

,