Background Check
Brain Alert is not the most famous of supplement brands out there, but interestingly we have gotten a few customer requests on this product. Right as you look at the bottle and packaging, you can tell that the manufacturers are simple, straight to the point, and aren’t keen on coming up with ‘clever’ marketing practices. I personally would consider this a pretty good first impression, since a lot of new products these days are just playing around too much with their cool branding and their eye-catching colors. Brain supplements are meant to be cognitive supporters, so let’s just keep it that way.
In this review, we will go past the cover of the book by actually evaluating Brain Alert’s ingredients, benefits, side effects, and pricing options. We hope that by the end of this review you will be able to make an informed decision of whether Brain Alert is the right product for you. But before we begin, what is Brain Alert and what does it claim to do? Well, Brain Alert is a cognitive enhancement supplement manufactured by Health Center For Better Living. It contains a propriety blend of nearly 25 nootropic ingredients and claims to support mental energy, memory and concentration. Although their formula may seem impressive, we wonder whether the blend can synergize and achieve their goals.
Formula Highlights
Here is a screen capture of the official supplement facts sheet:
That’s a whopping formula with 24 ingredients…all in one tiny pill! This reminds me of the saying “quantity doesn’t necessarily mean quality”. Before jumping into conclusions, however, let’s go over the key ingredients to evaluate the potency of the formula.
Key Ingredients:
Acetyl-L-Carnitine: Helps with the formation of the learning neurotransmitter called acetylcholine.
DMAE: Substance banned by the FDA in the U.S., Canada and Australia for its potentially damaging properties. Long-term use may result in nerve cell deterioration.
Huperzine A: Stimulates Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and helps to improve memory formation and recall. Also works as a cholinesterase inhibitor, leading to an increase of acetylcholine levels in the brain. Huperzine A is also capable of providing higher amounts of blood flow through the brain and body. As a result, concentration and focus are improved.
Bacopa Monniera: An Ayurvedic herb that can get rid of brain fog and promote better memory function.
Ginkgo Biloba: Helps to enhance memory in the long-term without any negative side effects.
Brain Alert’s formula is not bad, particularly because it does contain some very esteemed nootropic ingredients. Compounds such as Ginkgo and Huperzine A have all been tested substantially to show that they are capable of bringing benefits effectively. At the same time, however, the blend does contain some red flags such as DMAE. This substance has been banned and should not be included in an over-the-counter supplement. Overall, we feel as though Brain Alert has attempted to fit in as many ingredients possible, just for the sake of beating all the other competitors in the market. The only way to tell whether their formula actually works is by taking a look at what other customers’ experiences have been like. This is available further down in the review.
Rating: 15/20
Effects and Benefits
Before conducting the experiment I went around the office to find which one of our workers would like to volunteer and try this product out. Fascinatingly enough, a few members of our team (4 to be specific) had already tried it and were familiar with the product. Instead of creating a hassle and starting the experiment from scratch, I decided to simply ask them about their experience and whether they could share their thoughts about the product.
Reports ranged from very good feedback to mediocre to negative ones. One tester has been so pleased with her experience that she continues to use the product until this day after 2 years. She said that the product really helps her stay on track and focused throughout the day. Without it, she says, “it would be way too difficult to fight my lazy urges”. Another 2 users said that they’ve been trying it for 4-5 weeks and would not mind ordering another bottle. Although results “haven’t been super impressive”, they realize that the effects are stacking and they hope to see significant changes with further use. Another tester completely stopped taking the product after only 3 days because it gave him headaches and nausea.
Rating: 16/20
Potential Side Effects
As mentioned above, side effects that have been seen through use of this product are headaches and nausea. Please be aware that this is not as fatal as it sounds. These types of side effects are quite common with nootropic supplements as they affect the brain. For some people, the substances can be too strong thus leading to reactions such as pain and inflammation. If you are concerned then please meet with your physician before taking the product.
Rating: 16/20
Pricing Options
One bottle contains 60 capsules and retails for $35. Since the recommended dose is 2 capsules a day, one bottle can last an entire month. At only a bit over $1 per day, we say that this product is definitely worth a shot.
Rating: 17/20
Online Reviews
“I have been taking Brain Alert an cannot see to much change. I don’t loose my keys as much an stopped taking it for a month that is were I experience a vast change not taking it. My wife even notice the down dude in my memory an energy. Now I am taking it again an in one week notice a vast improvement in energy an memory mostly. I was hoping that I would not have to take it anymore . It proved to me anyway it works. Money is tight but j will find a way to pay for it because without it no fun.”
- Sy Levin on SupplementCritique.com
“I simply don’t trust supplements like this one, that have 1000 ingredients in them. I’ve tried a few and none of them have worked HALF as well as single-ingredient ones.”
- Gabriella on BrainOpinions.com
“I have always thought that the lack of concentration and memory are signs of aging, but now I believe that these symptoms may be kept under control. Luckily I have found my methods and I additionally use BrainAlert, which is the best remedy I have tried so far!”
- Marta N. on BrainOpinions.com
“I take BrainAlert as they say with 2 day pauses every week in order to prevent tolerance development. But after 3 months treatment I am not noticing any positive results. So, I guess that this works only for some people and definitely not for me…”
- Ingram on BrainOpinions.com
“I’m a healthcare specialist and I’ve recommended BrainAlert to many of my patients. It really is a good supplement, but for healthy persons only in my opinion. I mean if you feel like your energy levels are low because of chemotherapy or a medical condition you know you have, than BrainAlert is not the best option for you.”
- Arlene P. on BrainOpinions.com
Rating: 15/20
RECAP: Pro’s vs Con’s
Positives
- Price is inexpensive
- Has been very beneficial for some in improving memory and focus
- Contains some very good nootropic ingredients
Negatives
- Too many ingredients, potency is low
- May not work for everyone
- May cause minor side effects such as headaches and nausea
Our Verdict
The pro’s and con’s for this product essentially balance each other out. Although there are some very good ingredients included in Brain Alert’s formula, we feel as though there are far too many substances stacked into each pill. When this is the case, what typically happens is a lack of effectiveness because the ingredients cancel each other out. The reviews on this product also vary from very positive to very negative. In conclusion, we must say that there is no guarantee that this product will work for you. Depending on your age, diet, medical history, this product could do you wonders or simply throw your money down the drain. If you are curious to try the product, however, we advise that you consult with your physician beforehand.
The Best Brain Supplements: Your Complete, Personalized Guide
In such a busy, harried world, people look for all the help they can get.
They’ve got problems remembering things, concentrating in school or focusing on a big work project, or being in the best energy and mood level for family and their personal goals.
Nootropics - also known as “smart pills” and brain enhancement supplements - are designed to help address these cognitive issues and improve memory and learning, focus and concentration, problem solving, and overall energy and vibrancy. These supplements are a potential fit for students (usually college students), professionals and business executives, and the elderly who want to enhance their brain power and performance.
Check the Best Smart Pills
The question, though, is…
Do you know the best brain-enhancing supplement for you?
Our product reviews will answer exactly this. By presenting accurate, up-to-date product information, conducting weeks-long product trial, and raising the alarm on fillers and low-quality ingredients, we’re about to guide you in your decision-making.
We take a long, hard look at the manufacturer, where they manufacture the pill, the website, pricing, customer testimonials, and different authoritative websites that point to how safe and effective a smart pill is.
At the end of it all, we present our Top 5 rated smart pills for your easy reference.
How Do Nootropics Work?
Known by many different names, nootropics act as brain enhancement aids and brain boosters that don’t leave your cognitive wellness to fate.
There are two kinds of nootropics: (1) pharmaceutical cognitive enhancers made up of chemicals believed to have a clear effect on the brain and nervous system, and (2) natural cognitive enhancers, which are mostly herbal or nutrient-based in their composition. Our reviews focus on the second group, which don’t require a prescription, not considered drugs, and thus are allowed to be sold the counter and online via vitamin retail shops like Amazon.
Are natural nootropics actually the savior they’re painted to be?
These plant-based extracts promise improved mental functioning, no less. Their surging popularity, particularly in recent years, can be attributed to their high overall safety value and few and minor side effects compared with their pharmaceutical counterparts.
If you’ve heard of the term “nootropic stack,” it means different herbal or nutrient-based nootropics “stacked” together to achieve your own cognitive targets.
Types of Natural Nootropics
- Neurotransmitter enhancers - These increase the activity of brain chemicals responsible for mental sharpness. Examples are acetylcholine, and other neurotransmitters.
- Vasodilators - Boost blood flow to the brain via widening the blood vessels.
- Antioxidants - Preserve and protect brain cells from the damage caused by free radicals roaming in the body
A high-quality nootropic can change your brain wellness and make you limitless in many different ways. These include enhanced memory, increased attention to detail, outrageously good focus, increased alertness, better mental and visual acuity, improved learning and thinking, managed stress, better mood and energy, and a generally renewed sense of life and brain performance.
This is why this product review guide will help you in so many ways to know a nootropic inside and out. From the ABCs of the product formula to the overall verdict, you will have an informed choice of what to choose for your next nootropic bottle or product.
What Should You Look For In A Top-Rated Nootropic?
Offers essential vitamins and nutrients - Your brain gobbles up an unbelievable amount of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and nutrients for it to properly function for life’s everyday demands. The nootropic you deserve provides these crucial components and more. Ginkgo biloba, Bacopa monnieri, Panax ginseng, and more - the list is endless, but only a few good ones deserve your attention. Click here for the top-rated ingredient list for a smart pill.
Backed by clinical data and experts - The best nootropics have a solid scientific basis through independent, third-party research data on their effectiveness and benefits.
There’s no reason for a credible health care expert not to endorse a well-created supplement for brain enhancement.
Superior manufacturing standards - It’s not just about the ingredients, but also creating the product with the highest standards of production. The best supplements are manufactured in the United States, in a laboratory registered by the FDA. The manufacturer should be GMP certified as well!
Independent reviews (Not just Amazon!) - Reviews can be bought and unverified, so keep an eye out for them. Our reviews, for instance, maintain their independence through a circle of product testers that really get to the bottom of things and assess individual product performance and quality.
What Should You Avoid In A Brain Enhancement Supplement?
Improper dosage - Incorrect levels of each active ingredient - yikes! This leads you to believe that you’re getting optimum value and not the cheaper, over-hyped product that it actually is.
Insufficient return policy and fraud - Reputablecompanies offer 100% money-back guarantee since they are confident enough that their product works. Read the fine print and don’t just trust what you see on the surface.
“Free trial” offers - Does it seem too good to be true? Then it probably is. If you have to enter your credit card details to get to try a product for a month for free, then it’s not free.
Let’s combine your due diligence in research and our honest, in-your-face product reviews that won’t leave you guessing and wanting more information.
The Best Smart Pills On The Market In 2022
We have dutifully compiled the top 5 brain enhancement supplements based on our independent review, product trial, and well-vetted product information. Here’s what we’ve come up with to help you make a smart decision on smart pills today.
Our Winning 5 Brain Boosting Supplements for 2024
#1 LumUltra
Pros
- Incredible results from a potent, fast-acting formula
- Effects are very well-rounded: improvements to memory, focus, mood, energy
- Formula is a fantastic combination of potent Noopept and many other natural nootropics
- Information online is very detailed and simple to understand, love their design and content
- Premium ingredients at a great price (daily cost is cheaper than a cup of coffee!), we suspect this won’t last long, they might be trying to reach a certain market share then raise their price.
- 90-day return policy!
Cons
- They communicate everything via ticketing for quality assurance reason, so if you don’t know how to place order online, then you are out of luck
- Might want to supplement with a multivitamin (only contains B12)
Why It’s TCE-Approved:
Avanse Nutraceuticals’ LumUltra (New and Improved) blows all our editors away with an innovatively new formula utilizing the potent Noopept, in combination with select key natural nootropics. Hands down, LumUltra is the best cognitive enhancer we’ve ever reviewed, and will probably top our list for a very long time.
#2 Brain Pill
Pros
- Good market presence, or product recall
- Availability of scientific studies delving on ingredient and product levels
- Proprietary ingredients for uniquely positioned benefits
- Discounts and savings for bulk orders
Cons
- Relative shortage of customer testimonials
- Lacking imagery around supplement facts and product labeling
Why It’s TCE-Approved:
We are impressed by the speed and precision at which BrainPill responds to brain enhancement needs – and without unwanted effects that could turn off first-time users. The benefits are sustained and evident from the first dose, and this doesn't happen every time with nootropic products.
#3 Alpha Brain
Pros
- Good for focus
- Great customer service team
- Could be great as a workout supplement
Cons
- Effects are a bit limited
- New formula might actually be less potent due to new focus on fitness and health
#4 Prevagen
Pros
- Unique formula and ingredient “Apoaequorin”
- Website is rich in information and resources for further reading
- Clear video on website that explains Prevagen in simplistic way
Cons
- Little to no effects on focus and mood
- Poor value at $59.95 (better nootropics available at that price)
- Studies on Apoaequorin are still quite limited today.
#5 Neuriva
Pros
- Low to no side effect potential
- Offers targeted benefits for five areas of brain function
- GMO and caffeine free
- Vegan-friendly supplement
Cons
- Contains only two major ingredients, which are relatively standard in nootropics
- Lack of ample clinical research presented
- Soy lecithin content is a potential allergen
Sources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2690227/
- https://www.pharmaceutical-journal.com/news-and-analysis/cognitive-enhancers-what-they-are-how-they-work-and-what-is-in-the-pipeline/11117394.article?firstPass=false
- https://health.usnews.com/wellness/mind/articles/2018-09-27/what-are-nootropics
- https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/peak-nootropics-llc-aka-advanced-nootropics-565256-02052021
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/features/fortifying-your-memory-with-supplements
- https://www.webmd.com/balance/features/natural-brain-boosters
- https://www.managedhealthcareconnect.com/article/role-nutrition-prevention-cognitive-decline
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- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3423755/
- http://theconversation.com/the-economics-of-the-money-back-guarantee-80876
- https://ispe.org/initiatives/regulatory-resources/gmp
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- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/caffeine-side-effects
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