Alpha Brain Review: Effective Or Just A Scam?

Welcome to my Alpha Brain review. I’m going to go over this highly popular nootropic supplement to see if it actually works for brain health and cognitive performance. 

With my background in holistic health and wellness, I can tell you that Onnit Alpha Brain does have a selection of well-researched nootropic ingredients. 

Granted, it’s not entirely definitive and I can’t say it will work for everyone.

But that’s really no different from most other nootropic formulas on the market today. What works for some people may not work for others; it’s just the way it is.

With that said, certain formulas are definitely better overall compared to others. The quality and dosing, for instance, can make a huge difference in how effective a supplement is compared to the competition.

So, keep reading my Alpha Brain review to see if it’s one of the best. I’ll go over the main features, ingredients, potential health effects, pricing, and other important factors.

About Onnit

The company behind Alpha Brain is Onnit, which was founded by Aubrey Marcus and co-founder Joe Rogan. Onnit is designed to help individuals optimize total human health, mentally, physically, and spiritually. 

Marcus creates supplements based on his holistic health philosophy. Onnit products claim to strengthen your weak points and become a better, fitter, more powerful version of yourself.

They hold their products to high standards, stating they only use ingredients backed by clinical research. Moreover, all ingredients are supposed to be naturally sourced and continually third-party tested for purity and potency.

In addition to supplements, Onnit also offers fitness equipment, apparel, workout programs, and more.

What is Alpha Brain?

Alpha Brain is one of the most popular supplements made by Onnit. It is advertised as a daily cognitive support supplement for memory, focus, and beyond.

Onnit Alpha Brain contains several nootropic ingredients meant to get you into that flow state by enhancing alpha wave and neurotransmitter production. Some of the standout ingredients in this formula are l-theanine, tyrosine, alpha-GPC, and bacopa.

One thing you won’t find in it is caffeine. Plus, it’s free from dairy, gluten, and nuts, while also being paleo and keto-friendly.

Who is Alpha Brain for?

Onnit Alpha Brain is for adults who want to enhance cognitive performance and brain power.

It’s targeted toward those who need to get “into the zone” on a regular basis, whether you’re an athlete, researcher, student, performer, or businessman. 

Alpha Brain is also meant for people who need to calm down an overactive brain to enhance mental clarity during stressful times. 

Is Alpha Brain safe?

Yes. Alpha Brain seems generally safe to take. All of the ingredients are considered safe to consume in appropriate dosages. Plus, it’s third-party tested to further ensure product quality.

Things To Consider Before Buying Alpha Brain

Alpha Brain is one of many nootropic supplements out there. All of these formulas are designed to enhance brain power and cognition. But there are some things to consider before buying Alpha Brain to determine if this particular nootropic is the right choice for you.

Proprietary Blends

Alpha Brain uses all-natural ingredients, but many of them are listed under proprietary blends. This makes it impossible to tell how much of each ingredient is in there and if it matches the dose used in clinical studies.

Using such blends isn’t always a turnoff, especially if the blend itself is dosed high. But it’s still not as beneficial as listing out each ingredient.

Caffeine

Onnit Alpha Brain doesn’t contain any caffeine. This likely eliminates the chance of any crash after using it. 

I know some individuals prefer caffeine in their nootropics, but caffeine is certainly not necessary, so I think it’s helpful to know that, too.

Pricing

The regular price of the 30-count bottle of Alpha Brain is over two dollars per serving. You can save money by buying a larger 90-count bottle and/or choosing the subscription option.

The prices seem to be relatively affordable for most people. But you’ll have to think about whether or not this is something you can take on a regular basis. 

Intended Effects 

I mentioned that nootropics have similar overall uses. However, they can certainly vary in terms of the specific intentions.

In the case of Alpha Brain, it is designed specifically to help you get in the flow state. This means that it’s primarily meant to enhance concentration, focus, and mental clarity. There may be other benefits, but those are the ones this product keys in on.

Alpha Brain Features

A critical part of this Alpha Brain review is an analysis of its main features. What aspects of Alpha Brain make it unique and possibly beneficial as a nootropic supplement?

Ingredients to Promote “Flow State”

Most people go about their day without ever getting into an optimal state of mind. We become distracted, tired, or stressed. All of this can make tasks seem harder than they need to be. 

Not to mention, it lowers overall productivity and performance. 

Onnit Alpha Brain claims to get you into a flow state, which they say is when everything becomes effortless. The formula in Alpha Brain uses ingredients such as l-theanine to get you into the zone and optimize your brain power. 

In turn, you may be able to become fully engaged in your work, studies, practice, or whatever else is most important to you.

Contains Natural Memory Enhancers 

Memory problems can negatively affect your studies, work obligations, or just household tasks that need to get done. 

From scheduling meetings to preparing for exams, you need to stay mentally sharp and retain important info. If you’re constantly forgetting things, you’re going to have a lot more trouble improving the areas of your life you care about most.

Alpha Brain is advertised to contain natural memory enhancers such as huperzine A and bacopa extract. They say that these compounds enhance neural connections in your brain and allow you to process, store, and remember information more effectively.

Helps Support Cognitive Functions

Do you ever feel that you aren’t as productive as you could be? Most of us have, after all. 

The modern world makes it particularly difficult to experience optimal cognitive function. There’s the distractions from social media and countless apps, processed food that can disrupt brain function, lack of sleep, and the list goes on.

Now, I always recommend adopting healthier lifestyle habits first. But supplementation can serve as an additional boost to that. 

Alpha Brain claims to support many different cognitive functions to help you reach your highest brain state. 

They include many compounds, from cat’s claw extract to phosphatidylserine, to potentially boost focus and enhance attention and information processing, among many other cognitive functions.

Reduces Brain Fog

Brain fog is a really annoying problem experienced by many. Trying to think or problem solve with brain fog can feel like driving a car in a snowstorm. You may get where you want to go, but it takes a lot longer and requires much more effort. 

Onnit Alpha Brain is promoted as a way to reduce brain fog. Several ingredients in Alpha Brain, such as alpha-GPC, are supposed to enhance mental clarity largely by increasing acetylcholine and other neurotransmitters (brain chemicals). 

This may help you shed off brain fog, whether that was from a poor night’s sleep, a dietary trigger, or simply on the days you wake up on the wrong side of the bed.

Includes Stress-Busting Compounds

Stress is definitely a barrier to optimal brain performance. While mild stress might be helpful, excessive stress can impair cognitive performance. Everything seems to take more effort and you can’t focus or remember as well.

Alpha Brain claims to reduce stress with several ingredients, such as l-theanine and l-tyrosine. This formula may banish anxiety and help you perform better under stress, whether that’s for an exam, work project, or athletic performance.

Does Alpha Brain really work?

Onnit Alpha Brain seems like it should work for cognitive performance. 

It’s important to remember that everyone experiences different results, especially with nootropic supplements.

That said, Alpha Brain contains some clinically-researched ingredients that may enhance brain power. But unfortunately, I can’t see the doses for most of these. 

I also took a look at some Alpha Brain reviews from real customers. Most people seem to experience benefits, but there are others who didn’t see any results. 

We’ll go over this in a minute, but for now, let’s drill down on the ingredients.

Alpha Brain Ingredients

Onnit Alpha Brain contains 11 active ingredients. It’s a mixture of amino acids, herbal extracts, and other compounds.

Here’s the list of all Alpha Brain ingredients:

• Onnit Flow Blend™
  • L-Tyrosine
  • L-Theanine
  • Oat Straw Extract
  • Phosphatidylserine
• Cat’s Claw Extract
• Onnit Focus Blend™
  • Alpha-GPC
  • Bacopa Extract
  • Toothed Clubmoss Extract
• Onnit Fuel Blend™
  • L-Leucine
  • Pterostilbene
• Vitamin B6

Onnit Flow Blend™ (650mg)

The Onnit Flow Blend™ is made up of l-tyrosine, l-theanine, oat straw extract, and phosphatidylserine. 

We’ll take a look at these four below. 

L-Tyrosine

L-tyrosine is an amino acid and precursor to dopamine and noradrenaline. These brain chemicals are involved in many processes related to motivation, alertness, arousal, and attention.

When you’re stressed, dopamine and noradrenaline become depleted. But tyrosine seems to slow down this effect. Research shows it may benefit cognitive performance during some stressful situations. 

Effective dosage according to Examine: 100 to 150 mg/kg of bodyweight, although lower doses such as 500 to 2,000mg may work, too.

L-Theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid from green tea leaves. I like to call it the calming amino acid because of its effects on the brain.

Theanine seems to increase alpha wave production, which is associated with a calm, yet alert, mental state. It also enhances serotonin and GABA, which may also improve mood and reduce stress.

Overall, there is evidence that l-theanine supplementation reduces stress and anxiety as well as boosts cognitive functions such as attention.

Effective dosage according to the Journal of Food Bioactives: 200 to 400 mg.

Oat Straw Extract

Oats are rich in healthy compounds such as polyphenols and minerals. These may protect the brain against inflammation and damage.

There are a few studies which show that oat extract may enhance cognitive functions, such as information processing speed. But more research is likely needed to confirm this. 

Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid, which is a compound somewhat similar to dietary fats. It’s found in high amounts in the brain, where it plays many roles. 

For example, phosphatidylserine is required for healthy brain cell function, neural communication, and more.

Research shows that phosphatidylserine supplementation may slow down brain damage and support various cognitive functions such as short-term memory, memory retrieval, long-term memory, and concentration.  

Effective dosage according to Nutrition: 300 to 800mg

Cat’s Claw Extract (350mg)

One of two ingredients not included in proprietary blends is cat’s claw extract. This uniquely-named compound comes from a vine found in the Amazon.

Cat’s claw contains antioxidant compounds such as proanthocyanidins. Early research suggests that this extract may decrease brain inflammation and oxidative stress.

In theory, this could improve cognitive function where brain damage is concerned. But human trials are needed. 

Effective dosage according to Examine: 250 to 350 mg, although this isn’t specifically for cognition.

Onnit Focus Blend™ (240mg)

The Onnit Focus Blend™ is formulated with alpha-GPC, bacopa extract, and toothed clubmoss extract.

Alpha-GPC

Alpha-GPC (alpha-glycerophosphocholine) is a choline-based compound. As a result, it may increase acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter involved in cognitive functions such as focus and memory.

Most of the research has been done on cognitively impaired patients, with positive results for attention, memory, and other cognitive functions. But more studies are needed in healthy subjects to see if it enhances their brain function, too.

Effective dosage according to research: 1,200mg

Bacopa Extract

Bacopa is an herbal medicine that has been used traditionally for many years, usually to enhance cognition.

This herb contains bacosides and other bioactive compounds that reduce brain inflammation and stimulate neuron (nerve cell) growth. 

Research shows that bacopa supplementation may improve memory and other cognitive functions, although it’s not 100% conclusive. 

Effective dosage based on data: 300mg (assuming 55% bacoside concentration)

Toothed Clubmoss Extract

Toothed clubmoss extract (which many refer to as huperzia) is a plant most known for its huperzine A content.

Huperzine A may prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, which allows more of it to have effects in the brain. 

Toothed clubmoss/huperzine A seems to enhance cognitive functions in people with Alzheimer’s or other cognitive impairments. Still, it’s not entirely clear if it improves cognition in already-healthy individuals. 

Effective dosage according to research: 50 to 200 mcg (of Huperzine A)

Onnit Fuel Blend™ 

The Onnit Fuel Blend™ is composed of l-leucine and pterostilbene. The next two sections will describe their possible benefits.

L-Leucine

L-leucine is a branched-chain amino acid (BCAA). It is typically used to enhance muscle recovery and growth due to its roles in protein synthesis.

There isn’t any evidence that it enhances cognitive function. 

Pterostilbene

Pterostilbene is a derivative of resveratrol, which is a potent antioxidant compound found in grapes and some other foods. 

This compound seems to decrease inflammation and helps prevent brain damage. It may also enhance brain plasticity. 

More clinical trials are needed, but it has the potential to enhance cognitive performance. 

Effective dosage according to research: 5.5 to 18mg (tentative)

Vitamin B6 (10mg)

The last ingredient in Alpha Brain is vitamin B6, which is a B-complex vitamin. Among its many actions, vitamin B6 is involved in energy metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis.

Theoretically, vitamin B6 could improve energy levels and increase brain function due to these roles. But it doesn’t seem to have any major benefits unless maybe someone is deficient. 

Clinical Research on Alpha Brain 

One other interesting thing to note regarding the ingredients in Alpha Brain is that this exact formula was used in a clinical research study. This may provide better evidence of its effects.

In the study, researchers found that Alpha Brain significantly improved verbal memory and other cognitive functions. 

Alpha Brain Pros/Cons

To sum up a lot of what we’ve covered so far in this Alpha Brain review, take a look at the many positive things about this product and the ways it needs improvement. 

As I see it, here are the main Alpha Brain pros and cons.  

Pros

• Several clinically-studied ingredients 
• Effective dose of cat’s claw extract
• Caffeine-free
• Free of dairy, gluten, and nuts
• Paleo, keto-friendly
• Third-party tested
• May benefit several cognitive functions

Cons

• Uses proprietary blends
• Some ingredients are underdosed
• Pretty high priced
• Possible side effects

How To Use Alpha Brain

Onnit Alpha Brain comes in capsule form. You are supposed to take two capsules daily, preferably with a light meal. 

Ideally, take it in the morning to reap the benefits over the course of the day.

Recommended Dosage

The recommended dosage is one serving (two capsules) daily. Due to the use of proprietary blends, I recommend not exceeding this dosage to ensure you’re not going overboard on any particular ingredient.

Real Customer Alpha Brain Reviews

Now we’re going to look at some Alpha Brain reviews from real customers. This feedback can really help in determining if a product actually works. 

Alpha Brain is rated 3.7 out of 5 on the Onnit website, which is based on roughly 5,000 customer ratings.

This supplement is really popular on Amazon, too. It’s rated 4.1 out of 5 based on over 30,000 reviews. 

Alpha Brain buyers have several positive things to say about this product: 

• Customers said it improved mental focus and clarity
• Some people claimed that it gave them more energy
• Several buyers said it helped improve their memory
• Some customers noticed general increases in mood and well-being
• Several night-shift workers said it was helpful for them to stay productive
• Various students and workers claimed it increased their efficiency

Not all reviews were positive, however. There were multiple negative comments too:

• A small amount of customers didn’t feel any different.
• Some users said it was a little expensive.

For more detail on this product, here are some full-length Alpha Brain reviews: 

“I’m a college student and find it much easier to focus in my classes and complete tasks throughout the day. Not only does it help me with productivity and focus, but I also feel a sense of elevated mood through the day and feel that even conversations and interactions with others are easier and more enjoyable. Highly recommend.” -Ty W. 

“There is a noticeable improvement in my focus when I take Alpha Brain. I am able to better concentrate on one project at a time. I am not distracted by things around me. Alpha Brain has been exceedingly beneficial in helping me get my deadline-oriented work done on time. I’d recommend it for anyone looking to lock their focus in.” -Anonymous

“Alpha brain does wonders.. My work performance, focus, and drive has increased. I am able to focus and complete tasks in half the time it would usually take me. Great product!” -Boyd J.

“I noticed I was able to focus and stay on task way more when I took it, and I know this sounds weird but my conversations [seemed] more fluid. I wasn’t stumbling over words or trying to think of how to explain things, it would just come out naturally.” -Ian M.

“I take it with breakfast and about 20 minutes later I find quiet and clarity in an unceasingly busy mind. I’m able to plan my day and focus on each task without distractions being overwhelming. No jitters, no side effects and no ‘doped up’ feeling. When taking Alpha Brain I find my thoughts to be more effective yet subtle enough to not hijack my efforts.” -Tyler R. 

“I’m going on week two. I see a small difference but not sure if that is the placebo effect. Going to give it a fair chance and finish the 3 bottles I purchased. Guess I was hoping for a little more at this point.” -Lee R.

Here are some video reviews as well:

Alternatives to Alpha Brain

If there’s something about Alpha Brain you don’t like, I’ve chosen some alternatives. Other nootropic products worth looking into are Bulletproof Unfair Advantage, Organifi Pure, and Mind Lab Pro. 

Bulletproof Unfair Advantage

Unfair Advantage is advertised as a brain and body energy enhancer made by Bulletproof. This supplement is crafted with several ingredients designed to support optimal energy levels at the cellular level, such as CoQ10 and MCT oil. 

It’s made without caffeine, so you don’t have to worry about jitters, either. Taking it every day is meant to finally give you the energy you need while also enhancing brain performance.

Pros

• Caffeine-free
• Good mix of healthy ingredients
• Moderately priced
• Vegan

Cons

• Only three active ingredients
• Can be pretty pricey depending on how much you take

Organifi Pure

Organifi Pure is a superfood-based supplement designed to optimize brain health and function. It includes several ingredients for brain power, such as lion’s mane mushroom and coffee fruit extract. 

They say this supplement protects the brain from brain damage, supports cognitive functions, and helps your brain make better connections. Not to mention, some ingredients are meant to enhance digestion and overall wellness.

Pros

• USDA organic, non-GMO
• Gluten-free, glyphosate free
• Multiple effective compounds for brain health
• Includes superfoods

Cons

• Uses proprietary blends
• Priced on the higher end
• Not many “pure” nootropic ingredients

Mind Lab Pro

Mind Lab Pro makes a bold claim as the world’s best all-in-one nootropic formula. It’s filled with 11 research-backed brain boosters, such as citicoline, bacopa extract, theanine, and lion’s mane mushroom. 

There are several advertised benefits of Mind Lab Pro, such as enhanced focus and clarity, improved memory, and better creativity. Plus, it’s 100% stimulant-free.

Pros

• Fully transparent label
• Several well-researched nootropic ingredients
• Gluten-free, soy-free, non-GMO, caffeine-free
• Big subscription savings

Cons

• Higher priced
• Some ingredients are dosed a bit low

Health Benefits of Alpha Brain

Users who take Onnit Alpha Brain may enjoy several benefits, including:

• Increased Processing Speed
• Flow State Activation
• Mood Improvement & Stress Reduction
• Better Focus
• Enhanced Memory

Increased Processing Speed

Alpha Brain may increase your information processing speed, which is an important part of cognitive function. This may occur by increasing your mental clarity and ability to stay focused on the task at hand. 

Flow State Activation

One of the more unique benefits of Alpha Brain is flow state activation. Flow state is a mental state in which you’re fully engaged and aware, yet your perceived effort is low. 

Going into this state has been shown to improve brain function and overall cognitive performance. 

Think of those times where you’re fully immersed in a project, and you look up to see that somehow, three or four hours have gone by. It’s a place of effortless ease. 

Alpha Brain may achieve this by using l-theanine and other ingredients that lead to a calm, alert state of mind. 

Mood Improvement & Stress Reduction

Alpha Brain could also improve mood and mental well-being. This is mainly due to various ingredients that reduce stress and increase mood-boosting neurotransmitters such as l-tyrosine and l-theanine. 

In turn, reduced stress and greater energy may lead to elevated mood and better mental well-being in general. 

Better Focus

Onnit Alpha Brain may also enhance focus due to alpha-gpc, Huperzine A,  and other ingredients that may enhance acetylcholine.

This may help you increase mental clarity and fight past brain fog to get dialed in on whatever is most important to you.

Enhanced Memory

Onnit Alpha Brain has a few ingredients that may enhance memory, such as bacopa extract and alpha-GPC.

Alpha Brain may increase memory by reducing brain damage and oxidative stress, increasing acetylcholine, and upregulating neural connections in the brain. 

Potential Side Effects of Alpha Brain

Alpha Brain appears relatively safe for most people. However, there were several side effects mentioned by Alpha Brain customers, such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating, hot/cold flashes, and increased heart rate.

The ingredient that could be behind most of those effects is cat’s claw. If you’re unsure or concerned how you may react, it’s best to speak with your doctor before trying a new supplement.

Alpha Brain Price

Onnit Alpha Brain is available in a 30-count or 90-count bottle. Keep in mind that the serving is two capsules, so these bottles have 15 and 45 servings, respectively.

With each option, you can choose either a one-time purchase or the Subscribe & Save option, which cuts off 15%. 

Here are the prices:

• 30-Count
  • One-Time Purchase: $34.95 ($2.33/serving)
  • Subscribe & Save: $29.71 ($1.98)

• 90-Count
  • One-Time Purchase: $79.95 ($1.78/serving)
  • Subscribe & Save: $67.96 ($1.51/serving)

You can get the subscription delivered every 7, 15, 20, 30, 45, 60, or 90 days.

This is a pretty high priced supplement overall. The subscription can save you quite a bit, but all options are still over $1.50/serving.

Where To Buy Alpha Brain

Alpha Brain is available on the Onnit website and other online retailers such as Amazon.

However, I recommend buying it right from the Onnit website to ensure product legitimacy and get the money-back guarantee. 

Alpha Brain Shipping and Returns

Onnit ships to the United States and several international countries, which you can find on this page. 

They offer free shipping on orders over $150. 

Onnit also has a Keep-It™ Money-Back Guarantee. On the first purchase of the 30-count size of Alpha Brain, you have up to 90 days after the purchase date to request a refund if it doesn’t work out for you. 

You must try the product for at least two weeks before submitting a request.

Company Details

Onnit is a US-based company out of Austin, Texas. 

You can contact customer support with any questions, comments, or concerns at [email protected].

Alpha Brain Verdict

That’s the end of my Alpha Brain review. 

Onnit Alpha Brain is one of many nootropic supplements out there. I can see why people want to use such supplements. After all, many people struggle with brain fog, poor focus, and memory problems, among other things.

Alpha Brain has the potential to reduce these problems and enhance cognitive performance. Many ingredients in Alpha Brain may enhance various cognitive functions, such as focus, attention, memory, and mental clarity. 

I also like the fact that the benefits of this exact supplement were demonstrated in clinical research.

However, not everyone will experience positive results. And the use of proprietary blends is one main way Onnit Alpha Brain could be better. 

But all things considered, Alpha Brain seems worth trying if you want to enhance cognitive performance and brain function. You can click to buy Alpha Brain here.

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