Table of Contents
Vital Brain Booster Review Introduction
This is my honest Vital Vitamins Brain Booster review. The Vital Vitamins Brain Booster is a mostly natural nootropic stack that comes in capsule form manufactured by Vital Vitamins.
It contains natural and synthetic ingredients although it isn’t one of the best nootropic stacks we’ve seen but it is great for users looking for a specific effect of focus and clarity. The overall properties make it a very specific stack that is advertised as one which has multiple effects – which isn’t the case.
Ingredient wise, it is dosed well with the ones it has (even has a whole plant extract from Bacopa Monnieri) but it lacks some core nootropic ingredients present in most other stacks.
That ironically makes it a not so “vital” supplement but still, for the purpose we are reviewing it for, it is one of good value.
Vital Vitamins Brain Booster advertises to help:
Is this stack enough to satisfy the needs of some brain hackers and are the side effects too much of a risk for someone looking for his first stack? Let's find out.
The Lowdown - What to Expect
The course of taking the Brain Booster is 30 days, although some people who experience more severe ADHD symptoms can double it (always consulting their physician first, of course).
As a whole, the stack itself has a very subtle effect. Usually, this isn’t a good word to describe a nootropic effect but here it actually works for the benefit of the user. Other stacks include caffeine in them as well as other stimulants for very effective short bursts of energy and awareness, just like an artificial “wow” effect.
This, on the other hand, feels good and the effect isn’t sharp and sudden but more of a mild continuous one that gets stronger as time passes by.
At the end of your 30-day cycle you will feel more focused, refreshed, and healthier as a whole. The long-lasting effects include improved cognitive abilities, good long-term memory and a good concentration and motivation boost.
This is known as a “no-crash” effect in the neurohacking community. It is what people are after and the Brain Booster by Vital is the master of this effect all thanks to its all right dosage and nothing too shiny and flashy in terms of substances and substance combos.
Ingredients
Vitamin B12
Your body can’t make vitamin B12 so you have to get it from other sources. Vitamin B12 is found in foods, however, this B12 is a synthetic (lab-made) form of vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin).
Studies show B12 may play a role in preventing atrophy in the brain which is the loss of brain neurons. Atrophy has been associated with memory loss and dementia.[1]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4927899/
Studies also show vitamin B12 may elevate mood and decrease symptoms of depression. One study showed B12 deficiency was associated with twice the risk of depression.[2]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3874776/
Dosage: 500 mcg - 8,333% of daily allowance
Bacopa Monnieri
Bacopa Monnieri is loaded with antioxidants and studies have shown this ancient ayurvedic herb can boost brain health, mitigate depression, and relax the nervous system.
Bacopa benefits include improved memory and retention, reduce symptoms of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), reduce stress and anxiety.[3]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5075615/[4]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4690059/
Dosage: 300 mg
Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine is believed to have a role in keeping your memory sharp as you age.[5]https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jcbn/47/3/47_10-62/_article Animal studies show a decline in Phosphatidylserine with age. Phosphatidylserine is found naturally in certain foods and is derived from plants for supplement form.
Some of the believed benefits of Phosphatidylserine include helping with preserving memory, sleep, mood, depression, anxiety and Alzheimer’s disease.[6]https://www.pagepress.org/journals/index.php/mi/login?source=%2Fjournals%2Findex.php%2Fmi%2Farticle%2Fview%2F5647[7]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4237891/
Dosage: 100 mg
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is an herbal extract that has been associated to enhance brain function.
A handful of studies support ginkgo improved memory, focus and attention span.[8]https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12404671/[9]https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14602503/
However, a large review of research it was determined that the Ginkgo and memory relationship did not result in any measurable improvements in memory, executive function or attention capacity.[10]https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/hup.2259
There’s some research showing that ginkgo may help with anxiety, however, it is unlikely to have any effect considering the low dosage of 100mg. The participants in the research were taking either 240 or 480mg.
Dosage: 100 mg
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola Rosea extract is an adaptogen herb meaning it helps you adapt to stress. In numerous studies, Rhodiola Rosea has been shown to:
- Improve Memory and Learning[11]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6288277/
- Increase mental performance during mentally and physically stressful times[12]https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11081987/
- Reduce Depression
All signs point to Rhodiola Rosea being a effective herb but I question the dosage in Vital Brain Booster. It only contains 50 mg while most studies had participants taking 364+ mg.
Dosage: 50 mg
DMAE
DMAE is an acronym for Dimethylaminoethanol Bitartrate that is a compound that is commonly found in skincare products but is also a compound that can enhance memory, improve mood and brain function.[13]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8440802/
DMAE may trigger some side effects, including headaches, increased blood pressure, upset stomach, drowsiness and irritability.
The recommended dosage of DMAE is 100-300 mg a day and research studies used 500-1500 mg per dosage. Again, the dosage in Vital Brain Booster is low compared to what was used in research studies.
Dosage: 50 mg
Who’s it For
This stack feels like it’s geared towards people who are either new to the nootropics world or want that specific focus-boosting mild effect the Brain Booster contains. Generally, those are either people with attention deficit issues or ones that want a slight kick in their work output without having to deal with tons of excess energy coming from stimulants.
Side Effects
Since Vital Vitamins Brain Booster contains mostly natural ingredients except for B12 and low dosages of DMAE and Rhodiola Rosea, the chances of any side effects are minimal. Some of the known possible side effects include headaches, body aches, anxiety, dizziness, nausea or vomiting. Headaches tend to be the biggest side effect.
The following safety information is taken directly from Vital Vitamins Brain Booster: Possible Side Effects/Warnings: Headaches, body aches, anxiety, dizziness, nausea or vomiting. May also cause severe stomach upset or high blood pressure. Before beginning daily use, take 1 capsule and wait 48 hours to rule out any possibility of any potential side effects. We ask all individuals with a known medical condition should consult a physician before using this or any dietary supplement. Discontinue use immediately if any side effects occur and seek medical attention. Pregnant or nursing mothers, children under 18 or anyone who suffers from any of the afore mentioned side effects should consult a physician before using this or any dietary supplement. Do not exceed recommended dose.
Daily Dosage
1 capsule daily (30 capsules in a bottle) The serving size here is one capsule, unlike some others which have two or three which can be a nuisance for some people who have trouble swallowing them. There are 30 of those in a single container meaning the course will be 30 days.
Consumer Reviews
Review for Vital Vitamins Brain Booster are mixed. Some claim it has helped them with focus and clarity while others have complained it didn't do anything for them or they experienced headaches and/or nausea.
FAQ
One capsule a day preferably with food.
There is a 60 day money back guarantee if not satisfied.
There are possible side effects including headaches, body aches, anxiety, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
It should be 5 minutes to an hour.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Rating
overall
Ingredients
Side Effects
Effectiveness
Cost
Recommendation - Should You Buy?
My biggest complaint of Vital Vitamin Brain Booster is that the B12 is synthetic and not from natural sources. Your body does not recognize synthetic ingredients and doesn't know what to do with them. Synthetic ingredients still function but not like their natural counterparts. Also, two ingredients, DMAE and Rhodiola Rosea are in such small dosages that it may not make a noticeable difference.
Not every nootropic is going to have the same effect on everyone. What works for someone may not work for someone else. It all depends on your body’s chemistry.
Ultimate Beginners Guide to Nootropics
About
Taylor Bates
Taylor is a neurohacking expert who has been in the world of nootropics since it gained popularity almost 10 years ago. He overcame his ADD, procrastination and lack of focus with nootropics. Now, he is sharing his knowledge and experience here at NootroPicks.com to help others navigate the world of cognitive enhancement.
References
