NATURAL BOOSTERS

‘Nootropics are natural or synthetic substances that can boost brain performance – these can be incorporated into our diet to help cognitive function, including memory, focus and attention span,’ says nutritionist Salma Dawood for plant-based nootropic brand Nu:tropic. Try these natural options…

Lion’s mane

‘This mushroom can improve focus, mental clarity, memory and verbal fluency,’ says nutritionist and chartered psychologist Dr Naomi Newman-beinart (thelondondispensary.com). ‘Active compounds – namely hericenones and erinacines – are thought to be responsible for this mushroom’s brain-boosting effects. Studies suggest that lion’s mane can help slow the progress of cognitive decline, such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.’ Buy fresh, grow your own, or take a supplement.

Ginseng

‘This is a complex nootropic compound that’s effective in memory improvement and in the prevention of degenerative brain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s,’ says Dr Newman-beinart. ‘Its neuroprotective effect may also be useful in the prevention of depression.’ You can take ginseng in supplements or tea.

Iodine

‘This is a fast-acting nootropic that can help prevent brain degeneration later in life,’ says Dr Newman-beinart. ‘It’s essential for brain development, and deficiency results in hypothyroidism. Symptoms of iodine deficiency include fatigue, depression, anxiety, brain fog, headaches, hair loss, weight gain and sensitivity to cold.’

Green tea

‘It may have health benefits such as improving brain function,’ says Krisi Smith, founder of Bird & Blend Tea

Co. ‘One compound found in a tea leaf is theanine; theanine compounds – in particular L-theanine – are said to have a positive effect when absorbed.’

Add these to your diet… Avocados, berries,

broccoli, coffee, eggs, leafy greens, nuts and seeds, oily fish, spices,

wholegrains