Onnit Alpha BRAIN stands as one of the most widely recognized nootropic supplements on the market. However, some people may not be convinced by the brand’s promises. We crafted this Onnit Alpha BRAIN review to give you a better understanding of whether Alpha Brain is worth it.
In this article, we will explore the proposed benefits of this product and how they compare to the current scientific data. Moreover, we will give a brief overview of various factors such as potential side effects, dosage, and pricing that may help you to make an informed decision.
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How did we evaluate Onnit Alpha BRAIN nootropics?
The main objective of this article is to provide a better understanding of this product both from scientific and customer perspectives. Below are some of the criteria we used to evaluate Onnit Alpha BRAIN:
- Current research data. We compared information available on Onnit’s website to current scientific data to assess the potential advantages it may offer.
- Customer experience. To better understand the merit of this product, we analyzed customer reviews. Moreover, we examined Onnit refund policies and pricing.
- Transparency. We analyzed available information regarding Onnit manufacturing and sourcing practices to better understand the commitment to quality and safety. We also looked for information regarding third-party testing and supplement purity.
What is Onnit Alpha BRAIN?
Alpha BRAIN by Onnit is a caffeine-free nootropic supplement that is promoted to support cognitive function. This product contains 3 unique blends — all aimed at increasing peak brain performance. It is one of the most popular nootropic supplements that has been clinically tested for its effectiveness.
Enhance your cognitive function, mental speed and focus with a powerful Onnit Alpha BRAIN® nootropics blend.
However, it is worth keeping in mind that the effectiveness of nootropics will vary from person to person. They are not used to cure or treat any disorders, illnesses, or conditions. Moreover, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Unveiling Alpha BRAIN ingredients
Alpha BRAIN contains three trademarked ingredient blends — meaning there is no information on the precise amount of individual ingredients. Below, we will provide a brief overview of these blends. Keep in mind that due to the lack of information regarding the exact amounts of active ingredients, evaluating the product's effectiveness becomes more challenging.
Onnit Flow Blend
According to the manufacturer's assertion, the objective of this blend is to promote alpha brain wave production
The blend consists of 4 components:
- L-theanine. Linked to increased alpha brain wave activity, thus may promote relaxation.
- L-tyrosine. May enhance cognitive function, especially during times of stress.
- Phosphatidylserine. May be beneficial for memory and have neuroprotective properties.
- Oat straw extract. Although the evidence is limited, oat straw extract is linked to improved working memory and multitasking.
Onnit Focus Blend
Focus blend aims to support the maintenance of optimal acetylcholine levels, a neurotransmitter crucial for various brain functions, including memory.
The focus blend features 3 ingredients:
- Alpha-GPC. Acetylcholine precursor.
- Huperzia serrata. A moss that contains Huperzine A which may help to maintain acetylcholine levels.
- Bacopa monnieri. A herb that may influence acetylcholine levels.
Onnit Fuel Blend
According to the manufacturer, the fuel blend may promote brain health, contributing to optimal neural communication.
It is made from two ingredients:
- Pterostilbene. May offer neuroprotective benefits due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
- L-leucine. A branched-chain amino acid that may contribute to neuron regeneration.
How does Alpha BRAIN work?
Onnit suggests that Alpha BRAIN may enhance cognition through three key mechanisms targeting brain activity.
Promotes alpha brainwave production
Brainwaves occur when neurons in the brain send electrical signals to each other. Scientists distinguish 5 types of brainwaves; alpha waves falling in the middle of the spectrum. Moreover, alpha brainwave is associated with relaxed alertness, thus Alpha BRAIN may be
When it comes to the Alpha BRAIN supplement, it contains one active ingredient that has substantial scientific evidence supporting its ability to stimulate Alpha BRAIN waves: l-theanine. For this reason, the Alpha BRAIN supplement is often positioned as one of the best nootropics for anxiety.
Optimizes acetylcholine levels
Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in various functions within the central nervous system (e.g. memory) and the body (muscle movement). Low levels of acetylcholine are associated with memory issues.
Acetylcholine is not available as a supplement, however, there are a few substances that may help to optimize the levels of this neurotransmitter.
Alpha BRAIN includes four ingredients associated with acetylcholine levels: Alpha-GPC, Huperzia serrata, and Bacopa monnieri.
Neuroprotection
Certain substances in supplements and foods may have protective effects and help prevent brain cell deterioration.
In this Alpha BRAIN supplement, a few ingredients are associated with neuroprotection: Bacopa monnieri, l-leucine, phosphatidylserine, and pterostilbene.
For instance, pterostilbene possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, meaning it may offer neuroprotective benefits.
How can Alpha BRAIN nootropics help you?
As Onnit suggests, Alpha BRAIN may offer a wide range of benefits. In the following section, we have delineated a select few of these benefits.
Improvement in memory
One of the most sought-after benefits of nootropic supplements is the enhancement of memory. Onnit Alpha BRAIN includes several ingredients known for their potential to support memory such as Bacopa monnieri, phosphatidylserine, and L-tyrosine.
Moreover, this nootropic may help to maintain optimal acetylcholine levels. As acetylcholine is crucial for memory, having optimal levels can potentially enhance memory.
Executive function support
The term executive functions refers to various cognitive abilities used to control and coordinate behaviors in oneself. These functions include tasks such as planning, organizing, focusing, multitasking, and adapting to new situations.
One clinical study on Alpha BRAIN has provided preliminary evidence suggesting that it may offer support for executive function.
Increased focus
Onnit Alpha BRAIN could be considered one of the best nootropics for studying as it contains a few active ingredients that may provide a boost in alertness and focus such as l-theanine, and L-tyrosine.
On the other hand, Alpha BRAIN does not contain caffeine and typically requires sustained use of the supplement to observe noticeable benefits.
Neuroprotection
Certain Alpha BRAIN ingredients may have neuroprotective benefits, including pterostilbene, l-leucine, Bacopa monnieri, and phosphatidylserine.
These neuroprotective properties could be valuable for individuals seeking long-term cognitive well-being.
Alpha BRAIN side effects and potential drawbacks
Although seen as generally safe, Alpha BRAIN can cause certain side effects. Below, we analyzed the most commonly reported side effects of this supplement. It is important to mention that as of now there are not enough clinical trials to know all the side effects of this particular product.
Upset stomach
Some individuals may experience an upset stomach when taking this nootropic. Some customer reviews have also mentioned more serious side effects such as nausea. To minimize the risk of such adverse effects, it is advisable to take Alpha BRAIN with a light meal.
Irritation
Irritability is also one of the possible side effects associated with Onnit Alpha BRAIN. Some people may also experience restlessness.
Dizziness
Dizziness is also sometimes reported as a side effect of the Onnit Alpha BRAIN supplement. Moreover, some individuals may experience headaches as reported in the customer reviews.
If you experience any of these side effects, it is best to discontinue using the product and consult your primary healthcare provider.
Research behind Onnit supplements
With the increasing popularity of nootropics, researchers are paying more attention to certain ingredients within these products. However, research studies on commercially available supplements are not common. Consequently, the purported benefits of nootropic supplements are often described using the data extracted from studies that inspect individual active components.
Onnit stands as a company that features a few supplements that have been studied clinically — Alpha BRAIN being among them. Below we will present the data found in these studies.
The first study on Onnit Alpha BRAIN was conducted in 2016 and showed significant results regarding participants' cognitive function. Participants using this nootropic for 6 weeks showed improvement in verbal memory compared to the placebo group. Moreover, they scored higher than the placebo group in terms of executive function, which includes such mental processes as flexible thinking, information processing speed, and working memory. However, the study was relatively small, as it involved only 63 participants.
The later 2018 study on Alpha BRAIN showed no notable improvements in marksmanship performance among active-duty U.S. soldiers. This research spanned 31 days and involved 43 participants.
Enhance your cognitive function, mental speed and focus with a powerful Onnit Alpha BRAIN® nootropics blend.
As there are only two studies on this nootropic supplement available, it is impossible to conclude its effectiveness. However, the data of the first study may implicate that Onnit Alpha BRAIN has the potential to improve performance on executive functioning and memory tasks. To fully understand the effectiveness of this product, more studies are needed.
Customer feedback about Onnit Alpha BRAIN
Alpha BRAIN is one of the most popular Onnit products featuring over 6000 reviews on their website alone. While it's essential to approach online reviews with a degree of skepticism due to their varying reliability, we examined them as one of the criteria to gain deeper insights into the customer experience.
On their website, Alpha BRAIN has over 6k reviews averaging to 3.5 stars out of 5. Similar things could be said about Walmart reviews: the product is rated 3.6 with over 6k reviews as well.
Positive Alpha BRAIN reviews highlight a noticeable improvement in focus after taking this supplement regularly. Others have also commonly mentioned increased mental clarity, energy levels, and memory. Several of the reviewers also mentioned that this product did not give them jitters similar to what some individuals may experience with coffee. However, this also seems to highly depend on individuals because some people claim otherwise.
Negative Alpha BRAIN reviews are often focused on side effects associated with this nootropic, including dizziness, upset stomach, nausea, headaches, and irritation. Some customers have also said that the nootropic did not have any significant effect on them.
Trustpilot reviews
At the moment, Onnit has over 15,000 reviews on Trustpilot, with an average of 2.2 stars out of 5.
Happy customers note Onnit to be a reliable brand. Several of the customers appreciate the fast delivery and great customer service.
Some reviews on their Trustpilot were regarding Alpha BRAIN itself. These reviews claimed the product to be beneficial for their memory, focus, and alertness.
The main complaints about the brand on this platform are regarding the effectiveness of their products, including Alpha BRAIN. Some also noted having side effects from this particular product, including nausea. Other complaints on Trustpilot are related to subscriptions, refunds, and other customer service-related issues.
Reddit reviews
There are a few reviews for Alpha Brain on Reddit as well.
According to several Redditors, the main benefits of this product include improved memory and focus. In addition to this, anxiety management has been noted in the reviews. Some mentioned the product to be helpful for gym performance as well.
However, side effects were also mentioned in the Reddit reviews. These include nausea, jitters, stomach pain, and even vomiting. Others note experiencing no noticeable impact upon taking Alpha Brain even for prolonged periods.
Alpha BRAIN dosage and user guidelines: how to use it?
The recommended dose of Alpha Brain is 2 capsules per day. Moreover, as recommended by the manufacturer, this product should be taken with a light meal.
As with every supplement, it is advisable to consult your doctor before incorporating Alpha BRAIN into your routine, especially if you have or suspect any medical condition, take medications, or other supplements.
Where to buy and pricing information
Onnit supplements can be acquired through their official website as well as some secondary retail websites. Purchasing from the official website may offer the best savings and comes with the added benefit of being covered by their Keep-It money-back guarantee.
Keep-It money-back guarantee ensures you can receive a refund for an item that did not meet your needs. If you're a first-time buyer and you're dissatisfied with a product within 90 days of purchase, notify the Onnit team and get a full refund without the need to return the product. Please note that this guarantee applies exclusively to the purchase of entry-size supplements.
If you decide to purchase Onnit through their website, a bottle containing 30 capsules (totaling 15 servings) is currently available for $34.95 (or $2.33 per serving). A bigger bottle of 90 capsules (45 servings) is priced at $79.95 (or $1.77 per serving).
You also have the option to buy Alpha BRAIN with a subscription that can be canceled at any time to save 15% of the total price.
Comparing Alpha BRAIN with other nootropics
Alpha BRAIN stands as a one of the best nootropic supplements in the market. Below we compared Alpha BRAIN with other nootropics to give a better understanding of Alpha Brain's pros and cons.
Product | Cost per serving | Caffeine | Main ingredients | Number of ingredients |
Alpha BRAIN | $2.33 | No | L-tyrosine, L-theanine, phosphatidylserine, oat straw extract, Bacopa monnieri | 9 + Vitamin B6 |
Vyvamind | $2.50 | Yes | L-tyrosine, L-theanine, citicoline | 4 + B-group vitamins |
NooCube | $2.17 | No | LUTEMAX® 2020, L-tyrosine, L-theanine, cat’s claw extract, resveratrol | 10 + B-group vitamins |
Oweli | $2.00 | No | Phosphatidylserine, Bacopa monnieri, inositol | 7 + Vitamin complex |
Quality, transparency, and safety of Alpha BRAIN
When picking supplements, it is important to check certain factors that may impact the quality and safety of the product.
When it comes to the Onnit Alpha BRAIN, it stands as a solid choice as the company follows important aspects ensuring safety and quality. Below we went into more detail regarding Onnit transparency.
- Sourcing. Onnit does not display information regarding its sourcing practices on its website. However, the company itself is based in the United States.
- Manufacturing. Onnit products are made in cGMP-certified facilities ensuring strict compliance with safety regulations.
- Third-party testing. As Onnit claims, every batch of their products is tested for label accuracy and purity. However, there is no further information regarding that and their website does not display testing certificates.
While this doesn't necessarily imply that the product is unsafe to consume, in terms of transparency Onnit could be more forthcoming.
Our verdict — does Alpha BRAIN really work?
If you are considering trying nootropics, Alpha BRAIN is a reliable option to consider. It contains various ingredients that have been well researched and showed benefits for the brain such as memory support and neuroprotective properties.
Moreover, the Alpha BRAIN supplement itself has been clinically tested and showed positive results such as improved verbal memory and enhanced executive function.
However, this product may cause side effects, some of them including nausea and headaches. In addition, the product contains proprietary blends and does not display the exact amounts of active ingredients within the product.
FAQ
Does Alpha BRAIN really work?
Yes, Alpha BRAIN may provide certain benefits. Although individual effects may differ, this supplement is known for its potential to support cognitive function, including memory and focus.
What are the downsides of Alpha BRAIN?
Alpha BRAIN supplement includes a wide range of active ingredients and some of them may cause side effects or interact with other substances, medicines, or supplements. Moreover, as with most supplements, the scientific research data is still limited.
Is Alpha BRAIN good for anxiety?
Preliminary, yes. Some of the ingredients in this product may help manage anxiety, for example, l-theanine. Moreover, l-theanine is also linked to increased alpha brainwave activity which is associated with an alert yet calm mind.
7 resources
- Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental. A randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, parallel group, efficacy study of alpha BRAIN® administered orally.
- Nutrients. Acute and Chronic Effects of Green Oat (Avena sativa) Extract on Cognitive Function and Mood during a Laboratory Stressor in Healthy Adults: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study in Healthy Humans.
- Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. The effects of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, caffeine or placebo on markers of mood, cognitive function, power, speed, and agility.
- Rejuvenation Research. Neuropharmacological Review of the Nootropic Herb Bacopa monnieri.
- The FASEB Journal. L-leucine promotes axonal outgrowth and regeneration via mTOR activation.
- Journal of Functional Foods. Effects of l-theanine on attention and reaction time response.
- Food Science and Human Wellness. How does the tea L-theanine buffer stress and anxiety.
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