Below are some of the best and most popular nootropics and nootropic stacks used by students. By combining different nootropics students can increase their learning capacity, memory and concentration, whilst preventing high levels of stress. However, these nootropics also work really well as individual ingredients. We present nootropic stacks based on your experience level in the nootropics world.
This is an ideal stack for beginners. Caffeine and L-theanine are two natural nootropics, found in coffee and tea, respectively. Although, each of these substances is effective on its own, it is very common to use them together.
Caffeine acts as an adenosine-receptor antagonist. In other words, caffeine binds to these receptors whilst maintaining the neural activity. Adenosine is usually the cause for inhibitory effects in the central nervous system (CNS). By stopping the receptors that correspond to adenosine from activating, caffeine can prevent the propagation of inhibitory signals.
If adenosine receptors do not bind, neural activity does not slow down. Therefore, this is the main mechanism that makes caffeine so popular and effective, which primarily includes an improvement in alertness and concentration. Caffeine has some potential side effects, such as jitters and sleep pattern disturbances. This can be prevented by using L-theanine alongside it.
Interestingly, L-theanine lessens the side effects of caffeine. That is why L-theanine is synergistic with caffeine in improving cognition and attention. The recommended ratio of these two natural nootropics is 1:2 (e.g., 50 mg of caffeine and 100 mg of L-theanine).
“Caffeine and L-theanine is an effective, cheap, safe and easily obtainable nootropic stack.”
The best nootropic stacks for intermediate users:
Pramiracetam & Alpha GPC
This is the first nootropic stack for those users who have a longer history of using nootropics. In terms of cognitive functions, Pramiracetam is believed to be the most balanced and versatile racetam. Similar to many other racetams, the way it functions is not yet completely understood. However, it is known that it increases the choline uptake and enhances acetylcholine neurotransmission in the brain.
“These are the processes responsible for cognitive functions, such as learning, concentration and memory formation.”
That is why it is a popular nootropic among students who are looking to increase their productivity. Taking Alpha GPC with Pramiracetam ensures that the deficit of choline (which is caused by Pramiracetam and its increase in cholinergic activity) does not occur and both compounds can function optimally.
There are many users who also find it useful to use L-Theanine with this stack because of its positive effects on mood. Therefore, not only do they experience cognitive benefits they also remain calm and optimistic, especially when under pressure of exams and deadlines.
Prices:
Pramiracetam
Key Benefits
- Improved long term memory formation
- Higher concentration
- Better Mood
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Alpha GPC
Key Benefits
- Memory formation and development
- Improved mood
- Cognitive enhancer
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Phenylpiracetam & Choline
This is the second nootropic stack for the intermediate users. Phenylpiracetam is a very strong nootropic derived from Piracetam. It is believed to be up to 60 times stronger than its precursor. Phenylpiracetam is a cognition-enhancing nootropic with neuroprotective effects but also psychostimulatory properties. It crosses the blood-brain barrier with a higher efficiency than other racetams. Interestingly, some users compare its effects to Adderall but without experiencing any adverse side effects.
Phenylpiracetam works by increasing the acetylcholine levels in the hippocampal brain region. This is the main centre that helps us process memories and emotions. One of the consequences of increased demands of acetylcholine is reduced levels of choline.
Choline is a molecule crucial for normal functioning of all cells. It plays a very important role in many physiological pathways and processes. For instance, choline is a precursor of acetylcholine neurotransmitter.
“In order to maximise the cognitive effects provided by Phenylpiracetam and prevent the unnecessary headaches you should simultaneously take a choline supplement, such as Alpha GPC, Choline Bitartrate or Citicoline.”
For a starting dosage combine 100 mg of Phenylpiracetam with 250 mg of Alpha GPC (or your preferred source of choline). Give it a few days to observe its effects and adjust the dosage accordingly.
There is a possibility of developing tolerance to Phenylpiracetam. Therefore, Phenylpiracetam & Choline stack is a great choice during the important periods of intensified studying (e.g. exam weeks) as it gives a needed boost to focus, concentration and learning capacity. You should not use it on a regular basis though. Pramiracetam & Alpha GPC stack offer a good alternative to cycle it.
Prices:
Phenylpiracetam
Key Benefits:
- Increased alertness
- Improved focus
- Improved memory
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Choline Bitartrate
Key Benefits
- Greater focus
- Neuroprotective properties
- Improved cognative function
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The best nootropic stack advanced users:
Aniracetam, Alpha GPC, Huperzine A & Vinpocetine
This is another well-rounded combination of nootropics that have different functions. The main cognitive enhancing benefits within this stack are provided by Aniracetam.
“Aniracetam is known to able to enhance memory, improve learning and the speed of cognitive processing.”
Aniracetam also protects against stress and anxiety, which can be of much value when it comes to reducing nervousness associated with important tests/exams.
The Huperzine A in this stack acts as an acetylcholinesterase (AChe) inhibitor, and helps to stop the breakdown of the acetylcholine neurotransmitter. High levels of this neurotransmitter are believed to improve memory, particularly information recall, which again is very important in different scenarios (e.g., during the process of studying and actual test/exam/presentation). On the other hand, low levels of acetylcholine are often associated with cognitive decline and impairment.
Alpha GPC is the most effective cholinergic that works synergistically with Huperzine A and support its functions. Alpha GPC improves the overall health of the brain as it reduces the depletion of choline as a result of Aniracetam use. Sufficient levels of free choline in the blood are required to maintain acetylcholine production. Otherwise there may be a decrease in cognitive functions.
Vinpocetine is the final ingredient of this stack. Vinpocetine is a strong vasodilator that causes the dilation of blood vessels. Improved blood circulation leads to a greater amount of oxygen and glucose delivered to the neurons. Vinpocetine is also known for its neuroprotective effects as it reduces neural inflammation. This helps to keep the neurons healthy so they can function effectively. Such neuroprotective effects are important in young and old alike.
Prices:
Aniracetam
Key Benefits:
- Improved creativity
- Better holistic thinking
- Enhanced memory
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Alpha GPC
Key Benefits:
- Memory formation and development
- Higher concentration
- better mood
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Huperzine A
Key Benefits:
- Enhanced mental functions
- Improved memory
- Improved mood
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Vinpocetine
Key Benefits:
- Boosts brain energy
- Enhanced cognative capacity
- Improved memory function
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The best nootropic formula for expert users:
iQuzil
“iQuzil is the first ever learning accelerator specifically designed for expert users who are still looking for that competitive advantage.”
iQuzil is a cognitive enhancer that was carefully formulated using many highly effective supplements to amplify cognition and improve productivity. Below is a brief description of each ingredient used in iQuzil formula.
Picamilon improves the blood flow and circulation in the brain. As a result, delivery of all important nutrients and oxygen is enhanced. Huperzine A is a cholinergic nootropic that works by inhibiting an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine neurotransmitter. Therefore, Huperzine A has been added to the formula to prevent the further breakdown of acetylcholine. Adrafinil is a well-known synthetic nootropic used to promote alertness and wakefulness.
Pramiracetam is a powerful racetam that improves the ability to store and retrieve large amounts of complex information. Alpha GPC is considered as one of the best sources of choline. Choline is a very important micronutrient involved in various functional and structural roles in cells. Plus, it works synergistically with Pramiracetam. N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine (NALT) is an amino acid derived from the non-essential amino acid called L-Tyrosine. NALT has been shown to increase the synthesis of dopamine. Dopamine is a very important neurotransmitter associated with improved memory formation, learning capacity, analytical skills and overall mood.
DMAE maintains a healthy brain by providing neuroprotective effect. Vinpocetine is a good natural vasodilator that increases the blood flow and oxygen to the brain. An improved blood circulation in the brain brings important nutrients and energy and removes unwanted toxins. Vincamine – a natural nootropic also included in the formula to increase the cerebral blood flow thereby improving the metabolism of essential nutrients and oxygen utilisation in the brain.
Caffeine is the most popular psychoactive stimulant that probably does not need further introduction. Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is the acetylated form of L-Carnitine, which is an amino acid naturally present in the body. L-Carnitine plays an important role in a number of different processes, such energy metabolism, mitochondrial protection and learning. Finally, Bioperine is the black pepper extracts has been added to enhance the absorption of other compounds in this formula. Other ingredients used in the formula are ZMA complex, B vitamins (B3, B5, B6 and B12), and taurine.
iQuzil users praise it as the best nootropic stack and cognitive enhancer currently on the market. They experience drastic improvements in learning, memory, focus and concentration whilst maintaining good mood. Please read more reviews by clicking on the link below.
iQuzil™
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- Increased learning, including the ability to process more information
- Improved motivation and focus
- Increased cognitive speed and energy
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Summary:
Modern life puts a lot of pressure on us. Take students as an example. They constantly feel under pressure to perform well in their course so they can achieve academic qualifications. Sometimes, this is not possible without the help from cognition enhancing supplements. There is an ongoing debate about nootropics and whether or not it is ethical to use them. Despite these debates it is very clear that students will always seek something that gives them an academic edge. If you are among those seeking to gain academic advantage, you should try one of the aforementioned nootropic stacks.