What are Nootropics?
Our Guide to Types & Benefits
Ever wondered what gives your favourite Sneak energy drink that extra kick? The answer is nootropics. These cognitive enhancers are the secret sauce to the focus-boosting buzz you get. If you’re questioning ‘What are nootropics?’ - we’ve got you. Let’s explore exactly what they are and how they work.
What are Nootropics?
So, what are nootropics? They’re brain-boosting supplements that can be both natural and synthetic. Their main gig? Helping your cognitive functionality in everyday life. Think less stress, better motivation and laser-focused attention. Sounds good, right?
Nootropics definition
According to the National Library of Medicine, nootropics are “cognitive enhancers”.
Summarised as “a class of substances that can boost brain performance”, they’re essentially power-ups for your brain. The term ‘nootropic’ comes from the Greek words ‘nous’ (meaning mind) and ‘trepein’ (meaning to bend or turn). A clever way of saying that nootropics are substances that bend your brainpower to your will, which sounds pretty awesome if you ask us. And not so confusing when you break it down, is it?
The different types of Nootropics we use at Sneak
Now that we’ve nailed the nootropic definition, let’s go through the different forms of nootropics that we use in our products.
Natural nootropics
Natural nootropics include a variety of herbs, amino acids, vitamins and other naturally occurring compounds. They give you that extra edge without the synthetic stuff, and (importantly) they align with our ethos of clean and effective ingredients.
- Ginseng - This herbal legend has been used for thousands of years to help with mood and stress regulation, as well as brain fatigue. We use it in our energy drinks because we want to help you do what you love for longer - because we’re nice like that.
- Caffeine - Yes, that’s right, caffeine is indeed a natural nootropic. At Sneak, we want you to get the energy high without the crash landing. Unlike some energy brands who use synthetic caffeine (which triggers an unnaturally large spike in your energy levels), we use green coffee beans for a gentler and more sustained impact. So - you can have a longer lasting energy boost without the jitters. It’s a win win.
- Ashwagandha - This stress-busting superhero is a key player in our Hydrate range. Chronic stress is the ultimate buzzkill for your brainpower, which is why this natural nootropic is one of our favourites. Kicking stress to the curb, Ashwagandha sharpens your focus and enhances your mood.
- L-Tyrosine - A naturally- occurring amino acid found in meats, dairy, nuts and seeds, L-Tyrosine is all about boosting your brain power. This secret weapon helps you stay sharp and laser-focused.
- L-Carnitine L-Tartrate - The perfect addition for a pick-me-up, this amino acid is known for helping with fatigue and muscle recovery, and is often found in sports supplements thanks to its fast absorption rate.
- Taurine - Another powerhouse amino acid, Taurine is found naturally in meat and fish, as well as in your own body (and no, we can’t say it enough, it is NOT made from bull sperm). It boosts endurance, stamina and hydration - which is why we include it in all of our energy drinks.
Synthetic nootropics
L-Choline Bitartrate - The only synthetic nootropic that we use. Its core component, Choline, is naturally found in foods such as eggs, liver, fish, nuts and some vegetables. Essential for brain health, Choline helps with memory and muscle control. L-Choline Bitartrate in its synthetic form combines Choline with Tartaric Acid to enhance absorption, which is why we use it in this form.
That’s a lot of science-y words, but the long and short of it is that we only choose ingredients that will enhance your performance in every way. All of our products have no sugar and no nasties - as we believe the best (you lot) only deserve the best (our products).
We also use various other vitamins and minerals, not traditionally classified as nootropics, within our products to support overall brain health and cognitive function. For the full list, check out our ingredients.
Do Nootropics work?
The biggie: do nootropics actually work? Short answer: HECK YES.
Our brains are packed with around 100 billion neurons (that’s a lot). Nootropics allow our neurotransmitters (chemicals that send signals from one neuron to another) to work faster and more efficiently, boosting cognitive function.
Nootropics also help us to focus better by allowing blood and oxygen to flow to the brain more easily. Essentially, they’re like cheat codes for your brain.
The benefits of Nootropic supplements
We’ve already sussed out that nootropics truly are the real MVPs, but just to make it crystal clear, let’s go over their benefits:
- Supercharged focus - Say goodbye to procrastination and hello to laser-sharp concentration. Nootropics, especially caffeine, can boost your focus and attention span.
- Energy boost - One of the main reasons people love nootropics. At Sneak, the choice is yours when it comes to which form of energy you prefer - check out our classic tubs and convenient cans or, if you want a boost without the caffeine, our Hydrate range.
- Stress buster - Nootropics like L-Tyrosine and Ashwagandha can keep stress at bay, so you can stay as cool as a cucumber. Try our Island Punch flavour for that instant, stress-free holiday vibe.
- Memory enhancer - From remembering epic gaming strategies to just getting through your to-do list for the day, nootropics support your short-term memory like a boss.
Are Nootropics safe?
Yes, they are. Your health and safety are our top priorities, and our trusted community is our everything. We recommend if you have any underlying health issues or cause for concern, speak to a medical professional before consuming nootropic. Better safe than sorry.
Sneak products are designed to elevate your life. With zero sugar, zero nasties and zero crash, we’re here to let you do more of what you love. What’s more badass than an energy boost? A SNEAK energy boost (yes we brag, because we are the best).
Now you know all about nootropics. Want more info on how our energy drinks work? Take a look at this blog - it’s a blast (energy pun). And tell us - are you an OG Blue Raspberry lover? Or do you love the fruity kick of Raspberry Lemonade? Or maybe you walk on the wildside and love the nostalgic throwback taste of Breakfast Orange.
Our community gives us 99% taste satisfaction feedback (we don’t talk about the 1% of traitors). So, we’re pretty confident that you’ll love Sneak.