A Beginner's Guide to Nootropics and Adaptogens

what are nootropics?

Nootropics are substances that have the remarkable ability to enhance cognitive function. Cognition encompasses our memory, focus, mood, learning ability, and concentration.

G Spot only uses natural nootropics in their drinks. Natural nootropics are herbs or mushrooms; which include Bacopa, L-Theanine, B vitamins, Lion's Mane mushroom, cordyceps mushroom, Ginseng, and Ginkgo Biloba. 

Each of these natural nootropics has a unique application in shaping our cognition, which is what makes them so fascinating. 

For example, Bacopa, (found in Lift) is a herb from Southeast Asia, which has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries for its memory-enhancing properties. It has been shown that inflammation in the brain, leading to the release of inflammatory cytokines, can result in memory loss and reduced overall cognition. Bacopa has demonstrated its ability to inhibit the release of these inflammatory markers in the brain, thereby aiding cognition.

what are adaptogens?

Adaptogens are a class of substances with a unique quality—they help the body adapt to stress, whether it's environmental or internal. G Spot uses natural adaptogens found in plants, herbs or mushrooms in all their drinks. 

For instance, when we experience stress, our bodies release the stress hormone cortisol. Prolonged elevated levels of cortisol can wreak havoc on our system, affecting hormones, inflammation, immune responses, and digestion. This is where adaptogens, such as Reishi mushroom, Chaga, and Maca found in G Spot's Lift, Protect, and Soothe drinks, come into play. 

They play a pivotal role in helping us manage stress and restoring balance to our stress responses, and effectively lowering cortisol levels.

In Traditional Chinese medicine, Reishi has earned the title of the 'mushroom of eternal life' due to its adaptogenic properties, as stress has been found to be the leading cause of early ageing.

why would you introduce them?

Nootropics and adaptogens are incredibly powerful additions to our daily lives. In our increasingly stressful and fast-paced lives, more people seek alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs, actively choosing to look after their well-being. 

Nootropics and adaptogens may be able to enhance cognition and calm our central nervous systems. Nootropics and adaptogens have been used for centuries in both TCM, Ayurveda, and other traditional practices, and recently people are becoming more aware of these ancient practices and honouring these traditional ingredients. However, it is essential to remember that there's no magic mushroom or herb that can compensate for neglecting your overall nutrition and lifestyle. It's all about balance!

Adaptogens and Nootropics in G Spot drinks

G Spot Lift:  Red Berries and Sarawak, boosted with Adaptogens & Nootropics

• Adaptogen: Maca
• A 3000-year-old herb from Peru, Maca contains antioxidants and nutrients that have been used for many symptoms, including fatigue, hormone regulation, libido, and cognition. Maca has been found to improve energy and reduce symptoms of stress by calming the central nervous system.
• Nootropic: Cordyceps
• Known as the energy mushroom, cordyceps directly impacts cellular energy (ATP). It may also increase oxygen uptake in the brain, improving energy and reducing mental fatigue

G Spot Protect: Meadowsweet and Ginger, boosted with Adaptogens & Nootropics.

• Adaptogen: Chaga
• Chaga is a fungus that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is packed full of powerful antioxidants, which help to fight inflammation and infection. It contains a high amount of D-beta-glucans that contribute to supporting the immune system, and acts as an adaptogen because of its role in inflammation.

G Spot Arouse: Passionfruit and Habanero, boosted with Adaptogens & Nootropics

• Nootropic: Vitamin B6
• B6 is a nootropic-vitamin. Vitamin B6 plays a pivotal role as a cofactor for essential neurotransmitters like dopamine, our motivation neurotransmitter. B6's involvement in energy, mood, and its interaction with serotonin and dopamine makes it crucial in maintaining focus and concentration. Low mood, anxiety, and depression also influence memory, focus, and concentration .

G Spot Soothe: Scarlet Apple and Sage, boosted with Adaptogens & Nootropics 

• Nootropic: L-Theanine
• A naturally occurring amino acid found in plant and fungal species. It has been found to impact brain function by improving sleep, maintaining mood, reducing the impact of stress, and increasing energy.

Are G Spot drinks suitable for everyone?

G Spot drinks are suitable for people interested in incorporating functional beverages into their daily routine or anyone who loves great unique flavours. We recommend seeking advice from a GP if you are taking medication, pregnant or breastfeeding before consuming.

References:

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