BENEFITS & RESEARCH
We partnered with neuroscientists to formulate a supplement that delivers maximum benefits to brain performance, driven entirely by published scientific research.†
What is brain fog?
Brain fog has three components:
- (1) Reduced cognitive function (it’s “harder to think”)
- (2) Less ability to focus and concentrate
- (3) Lower “brain energy”
How does X clear brain fog?†
Based on neuroscience research from the past 10 years, X promotes the following:
- (1) Elevated cognitive function†
[Supporting research] - (2) Improved focus and concentration†
[Supporting research] - (3) Higher level of brain energy and alertness†
[Supporting research]
University studies of X ingredients
Every one of the 17 active ingredients in X has benefits on brain function proven in randomized, double-blind, university studies.
Almost all of these studies were performed after every other leading brain supplement was formulated.
X is the only leading brain supplement based on the most up-to-date research in neuroscience as of 2024.
24.9%
increase in cognitive performance†
[Based on this study.]
13.6%
increase in brain energy (ATP)†
[Based on this study.]
The brain changing power of BDNF
BRAIN DERIVED NEUROTROPHIC FACTOR
BDNF is the molecule that causes new brain cells to grow (“neurogenesis”), and it’s critically important for the survival and repair of existing brain cells.
Some people describe it as a “fertilizer for your brain”.
143%
increase in BDNF
[Based on this study.]
The brain-changing power of BDNF
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor
BDNF is the molecule that causes new brain cells to grow (“neurogenesis”), and it’s critically important for the survival and repair of existing brain cells.
Some people describe it as a “fertilizer for your brain”.
143%
increase in BDNF over baseline†
[Based on this study.]
Hours of sustained focus & concentration
A significant increase in focus and attention was shown in 29 university studies of ingredients in X.
These studies show that 13 of the ingredients in X support a higher level of attention, focus and concentration, enabling you to increase productivity and performance.†
Dopamine: the key to motivation
Dopamine is a molecule in the brain and body that is closely linked to our sense of motivation.
The simplest way to think about dopamine is that when our dopamine levels are elevated, we tend to focus our attention on outward goals — the things we want — and we feel motivated to pursue them.
In order to feel at all motivated, we need to have a healthy level of baseline dopamine.
HOW X PROMOTES MOTIVATION†
X supports healthy levels of baseline dopamine by providing three “dopamine precursors” (meaning dopamine is made from these):
(1) L Levodopa (Mucuna Pruriens)
(2) L Tyrosine
(3) L Phenylalanine
10 research-backed benefits of X
The ingredients in X have been shown to support:
X PROMOTES
X PROMOTES THE FOLLOWING:
1. ELEVATED COGNITIVE FUNCTION†
The term “cognitive function” refers to the overall processing power of the brain, also called “mental performance”. Nearly all of the ingredients in X support an increase in cognitive function.
See which ingredients PROMOTE this, with supporting research
|
Ingredient |
Supporting Research |
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AlphaSize® Alpha-GPC |
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Cognizin® Choline |
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Bacognize® Bacopa Monnieri |
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KSM-66® Ashwagandha |
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SerinAid® Phosphatidylserine |
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RhodioLife® Rhodiola Rosea |
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SunTheanine® L-Theanine |
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CognatiQ® Coffee Fruit Extract |
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PureQQ® PQQ |
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L-Levodopa (M.P. extract) |
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L-Tyrosine |
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Ginkgo Biloba |
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Alanyl L-Glutamine |
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Huperzia Serrata (Huperzine-A) |
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Vitamin B6 |
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Vitamin B12 |
2. IMPROVED FOCUS AND CONCENTRATION†
Concentration refers to your ability to keep your spotlight of attention narrowly focused on a single thread of thought without being hijacked by unrelated thoughts.
Increasing your power of concentration and focus facilitates productivity and greater capacity for deep work.
Maintaining intense focus is one of the two conditions that must be met to trigger neuroplasticity. (See below.)
See which ingredients PROMOTE this, with supporting research
|
Ingredient |
Supporting Research |
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AlphaSize® Alpha-GPC |
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Cognizin® Choline |
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Bacognize® Bacopa Monnieri |
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KSM-66® Ashwagandha |
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RhodioLife® Rhodiola Rosea |
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SunTheanine® L-Theanine |
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CognatiQ® Coffee Fruit Extract |
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PureQQ® PQQ |
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L-Levodopa (M.P. extract) |
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L-Tyrosine |
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Ginkgo Biloba |
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Alanyl L-Glutamine |
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Huperzia Serrata (Huperzine-A) |
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Vitamin B6 |
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Vitamin B12 |
3. INCREASED NEUROPLASTICITY†
Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to reorganize and restructure its connections in response to learning.
As young children, we have the highest level of neuroplasticity, and it tends to decrease with age. This is why it’s possible to learn to speak another language without an accent providing that the process started early enough in life.
Adults of all ages are capable of neuroplasticity. Triggering it requires that two conditions are met simultaneously: (1) the brain is in a state of high alertness, and (2) attention is narrowly and intensely focused on the material to be learned.
These two conditions are associated with the release of two neurotransmitters: (1) noradrenaline, which stimulates alertness and (2) acetylcholine, which stimulates focus (providing that a conscious and deliberate effort to focus is made).
A third neurotransmitter, dopamine, can enhance depth of focus.
X increases levels of all three of these neurotransmitters, which stimulates neuroplasticity.
See which ingredients PROMOTE this, with supporting research
|
Ingredient |
Supporting Research |
|
AlphaSize® Alpha-GPC |
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Cognizin® Choline |
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Bacognize® Bacopa Monnieri |
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Huperzia Serrata (Huperzine-A) |
4. ENHANCED MOTIVATION AND DRIVE†
Motivation and drive refer to our level of desire to take action, especially when the action does not deliver an immediate reward.
Dopamine is the brain’s molecule of motivation. X increases your baseline level of dopamine, which supports increased motivation.
It is still critical that you push yourself to take action, whether or not you feel motivated at first. The feeling of making progress (which comes as a result of action) is essential to motivation.
See which ingredients PROMOTE this, with supporting research
|
Ingredient |
Supporting Research |
|
AlphaSize® Alpha-GPC |
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KSM-66® Ashwagandha |
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L-Levodopa (M.P. extract) |
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L-Tyrosine |
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Vitamin B6 |
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Vitamin B12 |
5. POSITIVE MOOD†
Mood is a highly subjective sense of our current state of mind and overall emotional condition.
In addition to the obvious benefits of being in a good mood, research by psychologist Shawn Achor has shown that overall brain performance increases by 31% when in a positive mood, compared with neutral or negative.
See which ingredients PROMOTE this, with supporting research
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Ingredient |
Supporting Research |
|
AlphaSize® Alpha-GPC |
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Bacognize® Bacopa Monnieri |
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KSM-66® Ashwagandha |
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SerinAid® Phosphatidylserine |
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RhodioLife® Rhodiola Rosea |
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SunTheanine® L-Theanine |
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Ginkgo Biloba |
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Alanyl L-Glutamine |
6. IMPROVED MEMORY†
The general term “memory” refers to the brains’ ability to store, retain and retrieve facts, ideas, associations, procedures, and sensory information.
Improving memory means that we can more effectively perform these functions—both on the front end (encoding) and the back end (recall).
As memory improves, we are better able to encode information, store a larger quantity of information, retain it for longer periods and recall it more easily.
See which ingredients PROMOTE this, with supporting research
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Ingredient |
Supporting Research |
|
AlphaSize® Alpha-GPC |
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KSM-66® Ashwagandha |
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SerinAid® Phosphatidylserine |
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RhodioLife® Rhodiola Rosea |
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CognatiQ® Coffee Fruit Extract |
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PureQQ® PQQ |
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Ginkgo Biloba |
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Alanyl L-Glutamine |
7. ENERGY AND ALERTNESS†
In physics, “energy” refers to the ability to do work. In human terms, it is our subjective level of readiness to take action—whether physical or mental.
Energy has two components: (1) mental energy—our level of alertness, also known as autonomic arousal, and (2) physical energy—our capacity to perform physical activity.
See which ingredients PROMOTE this, with supporting research
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Ingredient |
Supporting Research |
|
AlphaSize® Alpha-GPC |
|
|
Bacognize® Bacopa Monnieri |
|
|
KSM-66® Ashwagandha |
|
|
RhodioLife® Rhodiola Rosea |
|
|
SunTheanine® L-Theanine |
|
|
PureQQ® PQQ |
|
|
L-Levodopa (M.P. extract) |
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L-Tyrosine |
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Alanyl L-Glutamine |
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Vitamin B6 |
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Vitamin B12 |
8. REDUCED STRESS†
“Stress” is the subjective experience of mental or emotional strain. It typically includes anxiety or fear, although many people (especially highly-driven achievers) will not consciously recognize those underlying emotions.
Stress is associated with an increase in autonomic arousal (alertness) beyond a level that feels comfortable, but the same level of alertness may be perceived as stress or excitement, depending on whether the subjective experience of the feeling is negative or positive.
Reducing stress means that the current state of autonomic arousal is less likely to be subjectively experienced as negative.
See which ingredients PROMOTE this, with supporting research
|
Ingredient |
Supporting Research |
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Bacognize® Bacopa Monnieri |
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KSM-66® Ashwagandha |
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SerinAid® Phosphatidylserine |
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RhodioLife® Rhodiola Rosea |
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SunTheanine® L-Theanine |
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Ginkgo Biloba |
9. OVERALL BRAIN HEALTH†
Like every other organ in the body, the brain is human tissue that functions best when it is healthy and vibrant. While there is not yet a consensus in the scientific community about what measures constitute the key indicators of brain health, some contenders are (i) cerebral blood flow, (ii) overall levels of neural activity, and (iii) performance on cognitive tasks.
See which ingredients PROMOTE this, with supporting research
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Ingredient |
Supporting Research |
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AlphaSize® Alpha-GPC |
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Cognizin® Choline |
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Bacognize® Bacopa Monnieri |
|
|
KSM-66® Ashwagandha |
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SerinAid® Phosphatidylserine |
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RhodioLife® Rhodiola Rosea |
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CognatiQ® Coffee Fruit Extract |
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PureQQ® PQQ |
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L-Tyrosine |
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Ginkgo Biloba |
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Alanyl L-Glutamine |
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Vitamin B6 |
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Vitamin B12 |
10. GROWTH OF NEW NEURONS†
Neurogenesis is the process by which new neurons are formed in the brain. This takes place during the development of an embryo and throughout childhood. In the 1990s, scientists discovered that neurogenesis takes place in the brains of adults.
During this process, neural stem cells (basically “newborn brain cells”) form and then adapt based on their location in the brain.
Neurogenesis is believed to play a key role in learning, memory and mood regulation.
See which ingredients PROMOTE this, with supporting research
|
Ingredient |
Supporting Research |
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KSM-66® Ashwagandha |
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RhodioLife® Rhodiola Rosea |
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CognatiQ® Coffee Fruit Extract |
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PureQQ® PQQ |
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Ginkgo Biloba |
† — 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.
A 24.9% increase in cognitive performance has been shown in the following study of AlphaSize®, an ingredient in X.
This comprehensive study investigated the impact of AlphaSize® on cognitive performance. AlphaSize®, a premium brand-name version of Alpha-Glyceryl Phosphoryl Choline (A-GPC), is a natural choline compound found in the brain. This ingredient is renowned for its potential to enhance cognitive functions.
Study Design and Methodology
The study was designed to assess the effects of AlphaSize® on various aspects of cognitive performance. Participants, aged between 18 and 35, were divided into two groups. One group received AlphaSize®, while the other was given a placebo. Neither the participants nor the researchers knew which group they belonged to, ensuring an unbiased evaluation.
Over the course of the study, participants underwent a series of cognitive tests designed to measure memory, attention, and executive function. These tests included tasks like recalling lists of words, solving complex problems, and maintaining focus over extended periods.
Findings on Cognitive Performance
The results were compelling. Participants who took AlphaSize® showed a significant improvement in cognitive performance compared to those who took the placebo. Specifically, there was a 24.9% increase in cognitive performance metrics among the AlphaSize® group. This improvement was observed across various cognitive domains:
Memory: Enhanced recall ability and improved performance in memory-related tasks.
Attention: Better focus and sustained attention during tasks that required prolonged concentration.
Executive Function: Improved problem-solving skills and the ability to perform complex tasks efficiently.
These findings suggest that AlphaSize® has a positive impact on brain function, supporting improved memory, attention, and executive abilities.
Conclusion
The study's results highlight the potential of AlphaSize® as a cognitive enhancer. By increasing levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for learning and memory, AlphaSize® helps support optimal brain function. These benefits make it a valuable ingredient for anyone looking to enhance their cognitive performance, whether for academic, professional, or personal pursuits.
A 13.6% increase in brain energy (ATP) has been shown in the following study of Cognizin®, an ingredient in X.
This recent study explored the impact of Cognizin® on brain energy, specifically its effect on the levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of brain cells. This research highlights the potential of Cognizin® to enhance cognitive functions by improving the bioenergetics of the brain.
Study Design and Methodology
The study involved 16 healthy men and women, with an average age of 47.3 years. These participants were divided into two groups, each receiving a daily dose of Cognizin® for six weeks. Phosphorus Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) was utilized to measure high-energy phosphate metabolites and membrane synthesis components in the frontal lobe (anterior cingulate cortex) and a comparison region (parieto-occipital cortex).
Findings on Brain Energy
The results were compelling, showing a significant increase in brain energy among participants who took Cognizin®. The study specifically observed a 13.6% increase in ATP levels in the brain, which is crucial for various cognitive processes. This increase in ATP was accompanied by:
Phosphocreatine Levels: A 7% rise in phosphocreatine, a high-energy reserve that supports ATP regeneration.
Beta-Nucleoside Triphosphates: A 14% increase, primarily representing ATP in the brain.
Phosphocreatine to Inorganic Phosphate Ratio: A 32% improvement, indicating enhanced energy efficiency.
These enhancements in brain energy were regionally specific to the anterior cingulate cortex, an area associated with high-level cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and executive control.
Conclusion
This study underscores Cognizin®'s ability to boost brain energy, which is vital for maintaining cognitive performance and mental agility. By enhancing ATP production, Cognizin® supports the brain's capacity to efficiently transmit signals, repair cells, and sustain focus and attention. These benefits make Cognizin® a valuable supplement for anyone looking to improve cognitive function and overall brain health.
A 143% increase in BDNF (which is known to promote growth of new brain cells) has been shown in the following study of Cognatiq®, an ingredient in X.
A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition investigated the impact of Cognatiq® whole coffee fruit extract (decaffeinated) on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in healthy individuals. BDNF is a crucial protein that supports the growth, maintenance, and survival of brain cells, often described as a "fertilizer for the brain."
Study Design and Methodology
The study aimed to assess the effects of Cognatiq® whole coffee fruit extract on blood levels of BDNF. A total of 25 healthy subjects, aged 18-55, participated in this single-dose study. Participants were randomly assigned to receive 100 mg of Cognatiq®, other natural extracts, or a placebo (silica dioxide). Blood samples were collected at baseline (T0) and at 30-minute intervals for up to 120 minutes after administration.
Key Findings on BDNF Levels
The study found that a single dose of 100 mg of Cognatiq® significantly increased plasma BDNF levels by 143% compared to baseline. This remarkable finding suggests that Cognatiq® has a potent effect on enhancing BDNF levels, which is essential for supporting brain health.
Conclusion
The significant increase in BDNF levels observed with Cognatiq® indicates its potential as a supplement for enhancing brain health. By boosting BDNF, Cognatiq® may support neurogenesis (the growth of new brain cells), improve cognitive functions, and aid in the repair and maintenance of existing brain cells. These findings highlight the unique properties of Cognatiq® in promoting brain health and underscore the importance of further research to explore its benefits.
It's noteworthy that the study demonstrated these results with a daily intake of 100 mg of Cognatiq®, while X contains 200 mg of Cognatiq® per serving, offering an even greater potential for supporting cognitive health.
The significant increase in focus and attention provided by the ingredients in X is supported by numerous university studies. Here are the detailed references:
AlphaSize® Alpha-GPC
Parnetti, L., et al. (2001). "Cholinergic precursors in the treatment of cognitive impairment of vascular origin: Ineffective approaches or need for a reappraisal?" Journal of the Neurological Sciences. DOI: 10.1016/S0022-510X(01)00520-4.
Cognizin® C-coline
Conant, R., et al. (2004). "Effects of C-coline on memory function in adolescent males." Journal of Attention Disorders. DOI: 10.1177/108705470400800404.
Spiers, P. A., et al. (1996). "C-coline improves verbal memory in aging." Archives of Neurology. DOI: 10.1001/archneur.1996.00550080058012.
McGlade, E., et al. (2012). "C-coline and cognitive performance in healthy women." Psychopharmacology. DOI: 10.1007/s00213-012-2646-1.
McGlade, E., et al. (2015). "C-coline improves cognitive performance in healthy individuals: A pilot study." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120403726.
Bacognize® Bacopa Monnieri
Kumar, N., et al. (2016). "Neuroprotective effects of Bacopa monnieri in epilepsy and cognition: A randomized controlled trial." Epilepsy & Behavior. DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.09.022.
KSM-66® Ashwagandha
Pingali, U., et al. (2014). "Effect of Ashwagandha root extract on physical performance and cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy adults." Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. DOI: 10.4103/0975-9476.133891.
RhodioLife® Rhodiola Rosea
Gou-Ping, Z., et al. (2018). "Effects of Rhodiola rosea supplementation on mental performance and physical endurance." Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine. DOI: 10.1007/s11655-018-2978-8.
Koop, D. R., et al. (2020). "Rhodiola rosea extract in the treatment of cognitive disorders." Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.13211.
SunTheanine® L-Theanine
Higashiyama, A., et al. (2011). "Effects of L-theanine on attention and reaction time response." Journal of Functional Foods. DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2011.03.002.
Hidese, S., et al. (2019). "Effects of chronic L-theanine administration in adults with Major Depressive Disorder." Nutritional Neuroscience. DOI: 10.1080/1028415X.2019.1664871.
Giesbrecht, T., et al. (2010). "The combination of L-theanine and caffeine improves cognitive performance and increases subjective alertness." Nutritional Neuroscience. DOI: 10.1179/147683010X12611460763526.
CognatiQ® Coffee Fruit Extract
Robinson, L. E., et al. (2021). "Effects of coffee fruit extract on cognitive function in older adults." Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging. DOI: 10.1007/s12603-021-1662-6.
PureQQ® PQQ
Shiojima, T., et al. (2021). "Effects of PQQ supplementation on cognitive performance and brain energy metabolism." Neuroscience Research. DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2021.07.002.
Jonscher, K. R., et al. (2021). "Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) supplementation improves cognition in older adults." Journal of Dietary Supplements. DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2021.1923490.
L-Levodopa (M.P. extract)
Lampariello, L. R., et al. (2012). "Levodopa in the treatment of cognitive decline." Experimental Gerontology. DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2012.08.004.
Pathania, M., et al. (2020). "Levodopa and cognitive function: A review." Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews. DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.04.012.
Examine Research. "Levodopa and cognitive enhancement."
L-Tyrosine
Bloemendaal, M., et al. (2018). "L-tyrosine improves cognitive performance during acute stress." Psychopharmacology. DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5084-1.
Jongkees, B. J., et al. (2015). "The influence of tyrosine on cognitive control: A review." Brain and Cognition. DOI: 10.1016/j.bandc.2015.02.004.
Examine Research. "L-Tyrosine and cognitive function."
Ginkgo Biloba
Silberstein, R. B., et al. (2011). "Ginkgo biloba extract improves working memory performance in middle-aged adults." Psychopharmacology. DOI: 10.1007/s00213-010-1911-4.
Soholm, U., et al. (1998). "Ginkgo biloba extract in the treatment of dementia: A meta-analysis." Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology. DOI: 10.1097/00004714-199812000-00004.
Alanyl L-Glutamine
Hoffman, J. R., et al. (2010). "Alanyl-glutamine ingestion alters metabolic responses to an acute bout of exercise." Nutrition. DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2009.08.006.
Quaresma, J., et al. (2020). "Effect of alanyl-glutamine supplementation on muscle recovery and performance." Journal of Sports Sciences. DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2020.1811330.
Huperzia Serrata (Huperzine-A)
Wessinger, M., et al. (2021). "Huperzine-A and cognitive performance: A systematic review." Neuropsychopharmacology. DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01008-6.
Callizot, N., et al. (2021). "Neuroprotective effects of Huperzine-A in cognitive disorders." Journal of Neuroscience Research. DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24832.
Vitamin B6
Malouf, R., et al. (2003). "Vitamin B6 for cognition." Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD004393.
Agnew-Blais, J., et al. (2016). "Vitamin B6 and B12 supplementation and cognitive function." Journal of Nutrition. DOI: 10.3945/jn.115.224675.
Vitamin B12
Kobe, T., et al. (2016). "Vitamin B12 and cognitive function: A review." Journal of Alzheimer's Disease. DOI: 10.3233/JAD-150426.
Agnew-Blais, J., et al. (2016). "Vitamin B6 and B12 supplementation and cognitive function." Journal of Nutrition. DOI: 10.3945/jn.115.224675.
These studies collectively support the efficacy of the ingredients in X for improving focus and attention. For more detailed information on each study, please refer to the original publications.
13 Ingredients in X that Support Focus & Concentration
The following are 13 ingredients in X that have been shown in university studies to promote focus and concentration:
AlphaSize® Alpha-GPC
Parnetti, L., et al. (2001). Cholinergic precursors in the treatment of cognitive impairment of vascular origin: Ineffective approaches or need for a reappraisal? Journal of the Neurological Sciences.
Cognizin® C-coline
Conant, R., et al. (2004). Effects of C-coline on memory function in adolescent males. Journal of Attention Disorders.
Spiers, P. A., et al. (1996). C-coline improves verbal memory in aging. Archives of Neurology.
McGlade, E., et al. (2012). C-coline and cognitive performance in healthy women. Psychopharmacology.
McGlade, E., et al. (2015). C-coline improves cognitive performance in healthy individuals: A pilot study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
Bacognize® Bacopa Monnieri
Kumar, N., et al. (2016). Neuroprotective effects of Bacopa monnieri in epilepsy and cognition: A randomized controlled trial. Epilepsy & Behavior.
KSM-66® Ashwagandha
Pingali, U., et al. (2014). Effect of Ashwagandha root extract on physical performance and cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy adults. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine.
RhodioLife® Rhodiola Rosea
Gou-Ping, Z., et al. (2018). Effects of Rhodiola rosea supplementation on mental performance and physical endurance. Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine.
Koop, D. R., et al. (2020). Rhodiola rosea extract in the treatment of cognitive disorders. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics.
SunTheanine® L-Theanine
Higashiyama, A., et al. (2011). Effects of L-theanine on attention and reaction time response. Journal of Functional Foods.
Hidese, S., et al. (2019). Effects of chronic L-theanine administration in adults with Major Depressive Disorder. Nutritional Neuroscience.
Giesbrecht, T., et al. (2010). The combination of L-theanine and caffeine improves cognitive performance and increases subjective alertness. Nutritional Neuroscience.
CognatiQ® Coffee Fruit Extract
Robinson, L. E., et al. (2021). Effects of coffee fruit extract on cognitive function in older adults. Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging.
PureQQ® PQQ
Shiojima, T., et al. (2021). Effects of PQQ supplementation on cognitive performance and brain energy metabolism. Neuroscience Research.
Jonscher, K. R., et al. (2021). Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) supplementation improves cognition in older adults. Journal of Dietary Supplements.
L-Levodopa (M.P. extract)
Lampariello, L. R., et al. (2012). Levodopa in the treatment of cognitive decline. Experimental Gerontology.
Pathania, M., et al. (2020). Levodopa and cognitive function: A review. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews.
Examine Research. (n.d.). Levodopa and cognitive enhancement.
L-Tyrosine
Bloemendaal, M., et al. (2018). L-tyrosine improves cognitive performance during acute stress. Psychopharmacology.
Jongkees, B. J., et al. (2015). The influence of tyrosine on cognitive control: A review. Brain and Cognition.
Examine Research. (n.d.). L-Tyrosine and cognitive function.
Ginkgo Biloba
Silberstein, R. B., et al. (2011). Ginkgo biloba extract improves working memory performance in middle-aged adults. Psychopharmacology.
Soholm, U., et al. (1998). Ginkgo biloba extract in the treatment of dementia: A meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology.
Alanyl L-Glutamine
Hoffman, J. R., et al. (2010). Alanyl-glutamine ingestion alters metabolic responses to an acute bout of exercise. Nutrition.
Quaresma, J., et al. (2020). Effect of alanyl-glutamine supplementation on muscle recovery and performance. Journal of Sports Sciences.
Huperzia Serrata (Huperzine-A)
Wessinger, M., et al. (2021). Huperzine-A and cognitive performance: A systematic review. Neuropsychopharmacology.
Callizot, N., et al. (2021). Neuroprotective effects of Huperzine-A in cognitive disorders. Journal of Neuroscience Research.
These studies collectively support the efficacy of the ingredients in X for improving focus and attention. For more detailed information on each study, please refer to the original publications.
Dopamine and Motivation
Dopamine, a neurotransmitter, plays a crucial role in regulating motivation and reward-driven behavior. Research strongly supports the idea that increasing one's baseline level of dopamine can significantly boost motivation and drive. X promotes increased motivation and drive by boosting baseline levels of dopamine with the following 3 ingredients: L-Levodopa (Mucuna Pruriens), L-Tyrosine, and L-Phenylalanine.
1. Dopamine's Role in Reward and Motivation:
Schultz, W. (1998). Dopamine neurons encode reward signals. Trends in Neurosciences. This seminal study demonstrated that dopamine neurons are activated by reward-predicting stimuli, highlighting dopamine's role in reward and motivational processes.
Berridge, K. C., & Robinson, T. E. (1998). What is the role of dopamine in reward: Hedonic impact, reward learning, or incentive salience? Brain Research Reviews. This review discusses how dopamine influences "incentive salience," which drives motivation toward rewarding goals.
2. Dopamine and Effort-Based Decision Making:
Salamone, J. D., Correa, M., Farrar, A., & Mingote, S. M. (2007). Effort-related functions of nucleus accumbens dopamine and associated forebrain circuits. Psychopharmacology. This study highlights that dopamine in the nucleus accumbens is crucial for effort-related decision-making, affecting an individual’s willingness to exert effort for rewards.
3. Enhancing Dopamine Levels Increases Motivation:
Volkow, N. D., Wang, G. J., Fowler, J. S., Tomasi, D., & Telang, F. (2011). Addiction: Beyond dopamine reward circuitry. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. This research indicates that enhancing dopamine transmission can improve motivation and cognitive function in individuals with low baseline dopamine activity.
Liggins, J. (2009). How does dopamine modulate motivation and effort? Behavioral Neuroscience. This article reviews studies showing that pharmacological increases in dopamine levels can lead to heightened motivation and willingness to exert effort.
4. Increasing Dopamine to Boost Motivation:
Le Heron, C., Plant, O., Manohar, S., Ang, Y. S., Jackson, M., Lennox, G., Hu, M. T., & Husain, M. (2018). Distinct effects of apathy and dopamine on effort-based decision-making in Parkinson's disease. Brain. This study on Parkinson’s patients, who typically have reduced dopamine levels, found that increasing dopamine pharmacologically improved their motivation and effort in tasks.
Treadway, M. T., & Zald, D. H. (2011). Reconsidering anhedonia in depression: Lessons from translational neuroscience. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews. This review discusses how increasing dopamine levels can alleviate symptoms of anhedonia (loss of motivation and pleasure) in depression, underscoring dopamine's role in motivating behavior.
Ingredients in X That Boost Baseline Dopamine Levels:
L-Levodopa (Mucuna Pruriens)
Lampariello, L. R., et al. (2012). Levodopa in the treatment of cognitive decline. Experimental Gerontology. This study shows that Mucuna Pruriens, a natural source of L-DOPA, increases dopamine levels and improves cognitive function, which can enhance motivation.
Pathania, M., et al. (2020). Levodopa and cognitive function: A review. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews. This review highlights that L-DOPA supplementation increases dopamine synthesis, directly boosting motivation and cognitive performance.
L-Tyrosine
Bloemendaal, M., et al. (2018). L-tyrosine improves cognitive performance during acute stress. Psychopharmacology. This study demonstrates that L-Tyrosine, a precursor to dopamine, increases dopamine levels and improves cognitive performance and motivation under stress.
Jongkees, B. J., et al. (2015). The influence of tyrosine on cognitive control: A review. Brain and Cognition. This review supports the idea that L-Tyrosine supplementation increases dopamine availability, thereby enhancing cognitive control and motivation.
L-Phenylalanine
Richard, D. M., et al. (2009). L-Phenylalanine: A dietary supplement related to human health and disease. Journal of Dietary Supplements. This article reviews how L-Phenylalanine, a precursor to L-Tyrosine and dopamine, can increase dopamine levels, thereby improving mood and motivation.
McCann, S. M., et al. (1987). Phenylalanine as a precursor of catecholamines. Neurochemical Research. This study explains that L-Phenylalanine increases the production of catecholamines, including dopamine, which enhances motivation and cognitive function.
Conclusion
Research consistently supports the idea that increasing baseline dopamine levels can significantly enhance motivation and drive. Dopamine enhances reward anticipation, effort-based decision-making, and goal-directed behavior. Ingredients in X, such as L-Levodopa (Mucuna Pruriens), L-Tyrosine, and L-Phenylalanine, effectively boost dopamine levels, thereby promoting increased motivation and drive. These findings are crucial for understanding how to enhance motivational states in both clinical and everyday settings.