It’s all in the mind

Nootropics, aka brain power boosting supplements and foods, seem to be the latest fad for fitness freaks. Experts tell us the best ways to get a fit body with a fitter brain

In the quest to ace the race in this competitive world, many are exploring various ways to get an upper hand both physically and mentally. In all this, several fad diets are marketed as being beneficial to the body and mind. Nootropics is one such term that is being heavily used these days. Whether it is via prescriptions drugs or through herbs in recipes, most fitness-oriented folks want to make the most of them.

So what exactly are they? “Nootropics, in simpler form, are called smart drugs or memory enhancers. They are natural chemical compounds or synthetic compounds that enhance cognitive functions such as memory, creativity, attentiveness, and alertness,” says Pooja Thacker, dietician, Bhatia Hospital.

However, there are multiple facets to nootropics that one should be aware of. Luke Coutinho, holistic lifestyle coach - integrative medicine, says, “The problem with using a blanket term like nootropics is that it includes a variety of nootropics that are natural, synthetic or natural, but with high risk. The right nootropics are the ones naturally available and safe, too.”

WHY THE NEED?

Our brain constitutes 3% of our body weight and about 15% of blood is pumped to it. Brain cells use only glucose for metabolism and lack of it can damage these cells.

Sedentary lifestyle, foods that are highly inflammatory, persistent worry and other habits that induce anxiety, sleeplessness, lack of sleep, poor digestive health, following fad diets, and nutritional deficiencies are some of the leading root causes of poor brain and mental health. They are also the problems for which people are seeking solutions. Even if the problems are not great, general inability to focus on simple tasks and increasing absent mindedness ring alarm bells, especially among those fulfilling leadership roles.

Using supplement leads to more blood being pumped towards the brain. So more oxygen, nutrients and glucose are directed to it. This causes the brain to be more attentive.

NOT A MAGIC BULLET

Herbs having neuroprotective effects are used in treatment of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, anxiety and dementia. “The problem begins when the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries attempt at selling packaged nutrients in isolation. Our bodies are simply not meant to take these nutrients this way,” says Pune-based nutritionist Rita Date.

She instead suggests making long-term lifestyle changes to maintain cognitive health. These include solving challenging puzzles, reading, keeping up with current events and having meaningful dialogues and relationships. “Eat a balanced meal with plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and nuts. Sleep well, and most importantly, exercise. Exercise has been proven to help brain function, and watching more than a few hours of television has proven to decrease it. Follow all these proven methods to help your cognitive function before looking for a pill,” says Date.

BEWARE OF HARM

Experts say that side effects are mostly a concern for synthetic nootropics. These include headaches, insomnia, dehydration, digestive discomfort, mood swings, light headedness, lucid dreams, rapid heart rate and anxiety. While some have a high potential for tolerance, others are prone to addiction and withdrawal symptoms. Megadosing on natural nootropics can also overwhelm the brain and body.

With inputs from Veena Salvi, professor - department of botany, Somaiya Vidyavihar and Dr Pettarusp Wadia, neurologist, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre.

The problem with using a blanket term like nootropics is that it includes a variety of nootropics that are natural, synthetic or natural, but with high risk. The right nootropics are the ones naturally available and safe

LUKE COUTINHO , HOLISTIC LIFESTYLE COACH