A deep dive review
Knowing what’s inside your supplements is key! It helps you understand how they work in your body and be prepared for any unexpected reactions.
Plus, learning about the extra benefits of each ingredient is like finding hidden treasure. You might discover some surprising ways your supplements can improve your overall health.
Now, let’s delve deeper into Brain Actives! Let’s explore the specific ingredients that make this product so special and effective.
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List of Ingredients
- Theacrine – TeaCrine® – 125.00 mg
- Natural Caffeine Anhydrous – 150.00 mg
- Ashwagandha Root Extract [5% Withanolides] – KSM-66® – 300.00 mg
- Bacopa Monnieri Herb Extract [50% Bacosides] – Bacopin®– 150.00 mg
- Gotu Kola Leaf Extract [8% Triterpenes] – Centellin® – 50.00 mg
- Black Pepper Fruit Extract [95% Piperine] – BioPerine® – 5.00 mg
- Vitamin B6 – 14.00 mg
- Vitamin B12 – 25.00 µg
- Pantothenic Acid – 15.00 mg
- Magnesium – Aquamin™ Mg – 75.00 mg
Theacrine
What it is: Theacrine is a purine alkaloid naturally found in plants like Camellia kucha tea leaves and cupuaçu fruit. Structurally similar to caffeine, it is often included in supplements designed to enhance energy and focus. Commercially, it is available as a patented form known as TeaCrine®
Indications:
- Increased energy levels
- Improved focus and mental clarity
- Reduced fatigue
Benefits:
- Potential cognitive enhancement
- May support weight loss efforts
- Possible mood-boosting effects
Possible Side Effects:
- Rare side effects include insomnia, mainly due to its long half-life (~20 hours), or overstimulation when combined with caffeine.
- It is advised to avoid consumption close to bedtime
Dosage:
The 125 mg dose is considered effective and safe, particularly when combined with caffeine, as in your supplement. Studies suggest this dose provides optimal benefits without significant side effects.
Caffeine Anhydrous
What it is: Caffeine anhydrous is a dehydrated and concentrated form of caffeine derived from natural sources like coffee, tea, or cocoa beans. It offers precise dosing and higher potency compared to naturally caffeinated beverages.
Indications:
- Enhancing physical performance, including strength and endurance.
- Improving alertness, focus, and fatigue reduction.
- Supporting thermogenesis and fat burning, aiding in weight control.
- Used in pre-workout supplements for an energy boost
Benefits:
- Increases cognitive alertness by blocking adenosine, a neurotransmitter responsible for drowsiness.
- Improves athletic performance, especially in aerobic and anaerobic activities.
- Reliable dosing eliminates variations seen in natural caffeine sources
Possible Side Effects:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Increased heart rate
- Upset stomach
- Headaches
Dosage:
The 150 mg dose is considered moderate and safe for most healthy adults, aligning well with the FDA’s daily caffeine limit of 400 mg. For optimal physical performance, individual requirements may range from 3-6 mg/kg body weight. Adjusting the dose based on tolerance and avoiding combinations with other stimulants is recommended.
Combined Effects:
When combined, theacrine and caffeine can potentially offer synergistic effects, leading to:
- Enhanced energy and focus
- Reduced fatigue
- Improved mood
However, it’s essential to consider individual tolerance and potential side effects. If you’re sensitive to stimulants, it’s advisable to start with lower doses and monitor your response.
Ashwagandha Root Extract (300mg, 5% Withanolides)
What it is: Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.
Benefits:
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved cognitive function
- Enhanced mood
- Potential support for immune function
Possible Side Effects:
- Upset stomach, diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Allergic reactions
Dosage:
300mg dosage is within a common range.
Bacopa Monnieri Herb Extract (150mg, 50% Bacosides)
What it is: Bacopa monnieri is a herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve cognitive function.
Benefits:
- Enhanced memory and learning
- Reduced anxiety
- Improved focus and concentration
Possible Side Effects:
- Upset stomach, diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Potential interactions with sedative medications
Dosage:
150mg dosage is within a common range.
Gotu Kola Leaf Extract (50mg, 8% Triterpenes)
What it is: Gotu kola is a herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
Benefits:
- Improved cognitive function
- Enhanced wound healing
- Reduced anxiety
Possible Side Effects:
- Upset stomach, diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Potential interactions with sedative medications
Dosage:
50mg dosage is within a common range.
Black Pepper Fruit Extract (5mg, 95% Piperine)
What it is: Black pepper extract, primarily containing piperine, is often added to supplements to enhance the absorption of other nutrients.
Benefits:
- Improved bioavailability of other nutrients
- Potential anti-inflammatory effects
- Potential pain-relieving effects
Possible Side Effects:
- Upset stomach, heartburn
- Potential interactions with certain medications
Dosage:
5mg dosage is within a common range.
Vitamin B6 (14mg)
What it is: An essential B-complex vitamin.
Benefits:
- Supports brain function and nerve health
- Helps in the production of neurotransmitters
- Aids in the metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates
Possible Side Effects:
In high doses, may cause nerve damage
Dosage:
14mg dosage is within a common range.
Vitamin B12 (25µg)
What it is: An essential B-complex vitamin.
Benefits:
- Supports nerve function and brain health
- Aids in the production of red blood cells
- Boosts energy levels
Possible Side Effects:
Generally well-tolerated
Dosage:
25µg dosage is within a common range.
Pantothenic Acid (15mg)
What it is: Also known as Vitamin B5, it’s involved in various metabolic processes.
Benefits:
- Aids in the production of energy
- Supports healthy skin and hair
- Helps in the production of hormones
Possible Side Effects:
Generally well-tolerated
Dosage:
15mg dosage is within a common range.
Magnesium (75mg)
What it is: An essential mineral involved in numerous bodily functions.
Benefits:
- Supports muscle and nerve function
- Helps regulate blood pressure
- Aids in sleep quality
Possible Side Effects:
In high doses, may cause diarrhea or stomach upset
Dosage:
75mg dosage is within a common range.
Editor’s note:
Many studies suggest daily supplementation of approximately 400mg of elemental magnesium to better utilize its benefits and optimize regulation of all bodily functions. It is known, for example, that magnesium acts as a cofactor in more than 100 enzymatic reactions, that is, all reactions that involve the use and transfer of ATP, generating energy.
If desired, additional magnesium supplementation can enhance the benefits of this supplement.
Final Notes:
While these ingredients in Brain Actives are generally safe when used as directed, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Individual responses to supplements can vary.
Always follow the recommended dosage on the product label.
If you experience any adverse side effects, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.