7 Best Nootropics for Wakefulness & Alertness 2023

Updated on June 29, 2023
 by — reviewed by Jason Williams, PhD (Contributor: George Collins / Editor: Yoko Hill)
best nootropics for wakefulness

What are the best nootropics for wakefulness?

Do you often feel lethargic or drowsy throughout the day, leading to a lack of productivity?

If so, you're not alone. Many people struggle with staying awake and alert during the day, especially if they have a hectic schedule or aren't getting enough sleep at night. Fortunately, there are several supplements called nootropics that can give you a boost of wakefulness and alertness without the negative side effects of coffee or energy drinks.

In this article, we'll explore seven of the best nootropics for wakefulness and alertness, and how they work to improve your cognitive function.

Best Nootropic for Wakefulness

1. Vyvamind

If you're looking for an alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals that boosts your focus and improve your cognitive abilities, Vyvamind may be the perfect nootropic supplement for you. Made from ingredients like Citicoline, a potent nootropic compound that boosts mental energy, focus, and speed, it also has a nootropic effect that promotes creativity.(1) With its combination of natural ingredients, Vyvamind has a wide range of positive effects, including improved mood and increased energy.

Unlike some other nootropics, Vyvamind provides long-term support for the brain cells, helping to reduce stress and support positive mood. One of its key ingredients is caffeine anhydrous, which increases alertness and mental energy. It also contains L-Theanine, which counteracts the negative effects of stimulants.(2)

Pros:

  • Enhances cognitive performance and mental clarity
  • Supports brain health and neurogenesis
  • Boosts mood and motivation
  • Reduces stress and anxiety
  • Improves memory and learning

Cons:

  • Contains caffeine, which may cause jitteriness or insomnia in some people
  • May interact with certain medications or supplements
  • May cause headaches or nausea in high doses

Vyvamind is safe, legal, and highly effective, and many users feel its effects within an hour of taking their first dose. While it may not be as effective as Adderall, Vyvamind offers the same effects without any of the risks or side-effects associated with traditional pharmaceuticals.

2. Feedamind

Feedamind is another nootropic that made it to the list of the best nootropics for wakefulness and alertness. It's a great choice for those who need a natural energy boost without the jitters that come with caffeine.

Feedamind contains a unique blend of natural ingredients, including Bacopa Monnieri, Alpha-GPC, and Cat's Claw extract, which work together to improve cognitive function, reduce stress, and boost alertness. Bacopa Monnieri is a powerful adaptogen that helps the body cope with stress and anxiety, while Alpha-GPC is known for its ability to increase mental and physical endurance. Cat's Claw extract is a traditional natural medicine that stimulates the central nervous system and improves memory and concentration.

Pros:

  • Promotes brain health and optimum mental performance
  • Helps reduce obsessive-compulsive tendencies
  • Helps regulate brainwave patterns

Cons:

  • Has potential side effects such as headaches and drowsiness
  • May interact with certain medications such as lithium
  • Limited research on effectiveness for long-term use

Feedamind is a great option for those who are looking for a natural and effective way to boost their mental clarity and energy levels without experiencing the adverse side effects that come with traditional stimulants.

3. Modafinil

Modafinil is a powerful nootropic that is widely used to promote wakefulness and alertness. It is considered by many to be the best alternative to Adderall due to its effectiveness and safety. Modafinil helps boost cognition, motivation levels, and maintain focus for extended periods of time.(3) It doesn't make you crash when the effects have worn off, as it's not actually a stimulant. Its stimulating effects are encouraged rather than forced.

A lot of people buy Modafinil online, although it's best to consult your doctor first. It's important to note that Modafinil is a prescription drug and should never be taken without proper medical supervision. In addition, it's not recommended for people with heart problems, high blood pressure, or other health concerns.

Pros:

  • Enhances wakefulness and promotes alertness
  • Improves cognitive function and focus
  • Increases motivation and productivity
  • Helps combat fatigue and sleep deprivation
  • Helps in treatment for narcolepsy and other sleep disorders

Cons:

  • Possible side effects include headaches, nausea, and nervousness
  • May disrupt normal sleep patterns if taken late in the day
  • May cause mild-to-moderate dependency or withdrawal symptoms

Modafinil is a potent nootropic that can significantly enhance wakefulness and alertness, making it an ideal choice for those who want to stay focused and productive throughout the day.

4. Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea is a great natural nootropic supplement for mind-body performance. It’s an ancient herb used in Ayurvedic medicine to enhance cognitive and physical performance. Supplements of Rhodiola Rosea speed up information processing in your brain, reduce reaction times, and improve memory.

The active compounds in Rhodiola Rosea called rosavins and salidrosides protect your brain from oxidative stress and improve signalling in your hippocampus—an area of your brain in which memories are processed.(4) Rhodiola Rosea supplements are not felt immediately. Therefore, doses of 300‒600 mg should be taken for several months for maximum benefit. Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb that helps your body handle stress more effectively. It improves mood, reduces feelings of burnout in both anxious and highly stressed individuals.

Pros:

  • Boosts mental and physical performance
  • Increases energy levels and combats fatigue
  • Helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation
  • Enhances mood and overall well-being
  • Supports immune system function

Cons:

  • May cause mild digestive issues, such as stomach upset
  • Can interfere with certain medications
  • Not recommended for individuals with bipolar disorder
  • May induce restlessness or irritability in some people

With its many benefits, Rhodiola Rosea has been shown to reduce mental fatigue and increase feelings of well-being in college students during stressful exam periods. More research is needed to determine optimal dosing and better understand how the herb causes these effects.

5. N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (NALT)

N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine, or NALT for short, is a nootropic that has been praised for its ability to promote mental clarity, alertness, and performance. This compound is a form of L-Tyrosine, an amino acid that is used by the body to produce important neurotransmitters such as dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.(5) These neurotransmitters play crucial roles in cognitive function, including mood regulation, memory formation, and attention.

NALT is particularly effective at promoting cognitive function under stressful conditions, helping to restore depleted neurotransmitter levels and reducing the adverse effects of stress on mental performance. This makes NALT an ideal ingredient for supplements that target stress-related cognitive decline. NALT has also been shown to have neuroprotective effects, promoting the formation of new synapses and neurons and supporting healthy brain function.

Pros:

  • Enhances mental focus and alertness
  • Boosts cognitive function, memory, and learning abilities
  • Supports the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine
  • Improves mood and reduces symptoms of stress
  • Helps combat fatigue and improve physical performance

Cons:

  • May interact with certain medications or supplements
  • Not recommended for individuals with hyperthyroidism
  • Should be used cautiously by pregnant or breastfeeding women

Overall, N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine is a powerful nootropic that helps support mental clarity, focus, and performance, making it a valuable addition to any cognitive enhancement regimen.

6. Citicoline

Citicoline is a potent nootropic that is believed to be the best for energy and top overall nootropic for healthy brain function and peak cognitive performance. This cognitive enhancer works by powering up the brain on a cellular level, specifically within brain cells’ mitochondria, and boosting alertness and mental performance without the crash of a stimulant or a smart drug.(6)

Studies have shown that Citicoline improves brain energy production by 13.6% and accelerates brain cell formation by 26%, boosting many aspects of brainpower. This nootropic substance improves cognitive function related to attention and has neuroprotective properties.

Pros:

  • Enhances brain function
  • Supports memory, attention, and learning abilities
  • Protects and repairs brain cells
  • Benefits individuals with age-related cognitive decline

Cons:

  • Possible side effects include headaches and gastrointestinal issues
  • May interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners
  • Not recommended for individuals with low blood pressure

Citicoline is safe to take at recommended doses and is backed by human research studies. As a clean and effective mental energizer, Citicoline is considered a top nootropic and a must-have for those seeking peak cognitive performance and healthy brain function.

7. Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid nootropic that is often considered as the best nootropic for memory. It is commonly used in brain cell genesis, repair, and maintenance, and plays an important role in nerve-protecting myelin and the outer membranes of brain cells. Additionally, it helps in brain chemicals and energy metabolism.

Phosphatidylserine is particularly effective in enhancing cognitive functions related to memory such as formation and storage of short-term memories and recall. It also has additional anti-stress effects and cognitive benefits that help with competitive performance. Research suggests that this nootropic supplement helps improve cognitive function related to attention and reduce cognitive decline caused by aging.(7)

Pros:

  • Supports cognitive function and memory recall
  • Enhances learning abilities and information processing
  • Reduces symptoms of depression
  • Beneficial for individuals with ADHD and stress-related disorders

Cons:

  • May have side effects like insomnia and digestive issues
  • Long-term effects and safety are not yet fully understood

Overall, Phosphatidylserine is an excellent nootropic supplement that provides numerous cognitive benefits. It is a great option for people who are looking for a natural way to enhance their memory and cognitive performance.

How Do Nootropics for Wakefulness Work?

Nootropics for wakefulness work by targeting different neurotransmitters in the brain to increase alertness and mental clarity. Some nootropics stimulate the production of dopamine and norepinephrine, which are essential neurotransmitters for sustaining focus and motivation. Other nootropics improve blood flow to the brain, allowing it to use more oxygen, which can also contribute to heightened alertness and wakefulness.

In contrast, eugeroics, a class of nootropics that promote wakefulness and alertness, stimulate the body's adrenaline levels, similar to the effects of caffeine. When used correctly, nootropics can help mask fatigue and boost energy levels, making them an attractive option for people who want to improve their cognitive performance. However, it is important to note that nootropics have potential side effects, so it is best to consult with a medical practitioner before incorporating them into your daily routine.

Overall, nootropics work by targeting the brain's chemistry, helping individuals feel more alert, focused, and energized.

How We Picked the Top Nootropics for Wakefulness

Our selection process for the best nootropics for wakefulness was comprehensive, taking into account factors such as effectiveness, component quality, brand integrity, product transparency, manufacturing procedures, user testimonials, cost, and value. We scrutinized each of these elements to deliver a reliable and thorough list of the most effective wakefulness-enhancing nootropics.

Effectiveness

We delved into clinical studies and user feedback to measure wakefulness enhancement, honing in on alertness, attention, focus, and cognitive speed.

Components

We carefully examined each nootropic blend, giving preference to scientifically supported, natural, and premium quality ingredients that boost wakefulness.

Research-Based Proof

We relied on scholarly articles and systematic reviews to confirm the effectiveness of key ingredients in promoting wakefulness.

Dosage

We evaluated the ideal dosages and component ratios, making sure they correspond with documented research for optimal results.

Safety

We confirmed the safety of each component, considering possible side effects and conflicts, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. We prioritized ingredients approved by the FDA.

Brand Integrity

We assessed the reliability and authenticity of brands using customer feedback, expert recommendations, and the company's track record.

Product Transparency

We appreciated full disclosure of ingredients, including their origins and quantities, to facilitate informed purchasing decisions for consumers.

Manufacturing Procedures

We scrutinized manufacturing protocols, favoring products produced in accredited facilities that comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

User Testimonials

We sifted through genuine customer reviews, valuing accounts that specify enhancements in wakefulness and cognitive performance.

Cost

We compared the prices of various products, ensuring that they were competitive and reflected the quality and potency of the nootropic.

Value

We evaluated the overall value, considering the balance of cost, quality, and efficacy to guarantee the best possible return on investment.

Summary

Feeling lethargic and lacking productivity during the day is a common issue for many individuals. Thankfully, there are natural supplements known as nootropics that can provide a boost of energy and mental clarity without the drawbacks of coffee or energy drinks. In this article, we explored seven of the best nootropics for wakefulness and alertness.

Vyvamind is a powerful nootropic stack that enhances mental awareness and supports brain health. Feedamind promotes overall mental health and cognitive function while reducing stress. Modafinil is widely used to promote wakefulness and focus, making it a popular alternative to prescription drugs. Rhodiola Rosea is a natural energy booster that enhances cognitive performance and reduces mental fatigue. N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine improves mental clarity and performance under stressful conditions. Citicoline is a potent nootropic for energy and overall brain function. Phosphatidylserine, known for its memory-enhancing properties, also provides cognitive benefits.

These nootropics work by targeting neurotransmitters, improving blood flow to the brain, and stimulating the body's adrenaline levels. However, it is important to consult with a medical professional before incorporating them into your routine to ensure safety and proper usage.

In conclusion, if you're looking to increase wakefulness and alertness, these top-rated nootropics offer effective and natural solutions to enhance cognitive performance and boost energy levels throughout the day.

FAQs

Are nootropics safe for people with attention deficit?

While some nootropics have been extensively researched and are regarded as safe, others have limited studies and may have potential side effects. It's always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement or medication.

How long does it take for nootropics to work for wakefulness and alertness?

The onset of effects can range from 30 minutes to a few weeks, depending on the specific nootropic and the individual's physiology.

Can I use nootropics for wakefulness and alertness every day?

While some nootropics may be safe for daily use, others should be cycled to prevent tolerance build-up. Always follow package instructions.

Can nootropics replace a good sleep?

No, nootropics should not be used as a substitute for adequate sleep. They can enhance alertness, but they can't replace the restorative benefits of sleep.

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