Ginkgo Smart
Irwin Naturals
Ginkgo Smart
4.6
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(2247 ratings)
Ginkgo
Fish Oil 600 mg
Choline 30 mg
Acetyl-L-Carnitine 25 mg
Deanol 40 mg
Score 55.0
Ginkgo Smart offers a diverse blend of brain and general health ingredients, but most are present in sub-therapeutic dosages, limiting its effectiveness for specific, pronounced benefits. Its strength lies in its comprehensive approach rather than potent, high-dose efficacy.
Quantity: 60 Liquid(s)Servings size: 2 Liquid Softgel(s) (30 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Brain Health
Cognitive Support
Cardiovascular Support
Digestive Health
Muscle Gain
leaderboard Score 55.0
Ginkgo Smart offers a diverse blend of brain and general health ingredients, but most are present in sub-therapeutic dosages, limiting its effectiveness for specific, pronounced benefits. Its strength lies in its comprehensive approach rather than potent, high-dose efficacy.
insights Analysis
Irwin Naturals Ginkgo Smart aims to provide broad support for cognitive function, energy, and general well-being through a multi-ingredient formula. The product combines well-researched ingredients like Ginkgo Biloba extract, Fish Oil, Choline, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, DMAE, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, and BioPerine. While the inclusion of a standardized Ginkgo extract is a positive, the efficacy of several other compounds is compromised by their very low dosages. For example, Acetyl-L-Carnitine (25mg) and Choline (30mg) are present in amounts far below typical therapeutic levels (often 500-1500mg for ALCAR and 250-1000mg for Choline). Similarly, DMAE (40mg) and Alpha-Lipoic Acid (15mg) are also underdosed. The Fish Oil content (600mg) is moderate, but without specified EPA/DHA levels, its targeted benefits are less clear. Online reviews generally reflect positive user experience with Irwin Naturals products, but nutritionists and scientific literature would highlight the insufficient dosing for many of the claimed effects. The liquid softgel form might offer improved bioavailability for some fat-soluble ingredients, but this doesn't fully mitigate the low concentrations of active compounds. This product appears to be a 'jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none,' potentially offering mild general support rather than targeted, significant benefits.
- Contains a wide variety of ingredients targeting multiple health aspects, offering a broad-spectrum approach.
- Includes BioPerine, which can enhance the absorption of other nutrients.
- The liquid softgel form may contribute to better bioavailability for certain ingredients.
- Relatively affordable price per serving for a multi-ingredient formula.
- Many key ingredients like Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Choline, DMAE, and Alpha-Lipoic Acid are significantly underdosed compared to clinically effective amounts.
- The inclusion of non-standardized Ginkgo powder alongside the extract adds bulk but less reliable efficacy.
- Fish oil quantity is moderate, and specific EPA/DHA content, crucial for benefits, is not disclosed.
- Broad health claims are unlikely to be fully met due to the prevalent underdosing of active compounds.
- Individuals seeking significant, targeted benefits for specific health goals may find the dosages insufficient for desired outcomes.
- Ginkgo can have anticoagulant effects; individuals on blood thinners or with bleeding disorders should consult a healthcare professional before use.
- The small quantities of certain ingredients may lead to minimal noticeable effects despite their presence in the formula.
$14.99($0.49 per serving)
 Amazon | $ 14.99 | |
 iHerb | $ 19.99 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
Ginkgo biloba is commonly studied for its potential to support blood circulation, including to the brain, which may contribute to improved cognitive functions like memory and concentration. It also contains antioxidant compounds that can help protect brain cells from oxidative stress. These properties are thought to underpin its benefits for cognitive health.
Fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, which are essential structural components of brain cell membranes. These fatty acids are crucial for maintaining brain structure and function, supporting nerve cell communication and overall cognitive processes. DHA, in particular, is highly concentrated in the brain.
Toothed Clubmoss extract is a natural source of Huperzine A, an alkaloid known to inhibit acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. By preserving acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter for memory and learning, Huperzine A may support cognitive functions. This mechanism is thought to enhance neural communication.
Ginkgo biloba supports healthy blood flow and provides antioxidant protection. Huperzine A helps maintain levels of acetylcholine by inhibiting its breakdown, while Choline serves as a precursor for this neurotransmitter. This combination aims to support multiple aspects of cognitive function, including memory, learning, and overall neural efficiency.
BioPerine is a patented extract derived from black pepper fruit, known for its ability to enhance the bioavailability of various nutrients and compounds. In a supplement containing multiple beneficial ingredients, its inclusion is intended to improve the absorption and utilization of these substances, potentially increasing their effectiveness in the body.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
Typical daily dosages for standardized Ginkgo Biloba leaf extract often range from 120 mg to 240 mg, divided into two or three doses. The extract is usually standardized to contain 24% flavone glycosides and 6% terpene lactones. The amount may vary based on the specific formulation and desired effects.
Taking Ginkgo Biloba supplements with food is often recommended to minimize the potential for mild stomach upset. Food can also aid in the absorption of certain fat-soluble compounds or other ingredients present in a multi-ingredient formula. Always refer to the specific product's instructions.
Many people prefer to take cognitive support supplements, including Ginkgo, in the morning or early afternoon to align with periods of mental activity. This timing may also help avoid any potential stimulating effects interfering with sleep if taken too late in the day. Consistency in timing is often key for observing benefits.
The frequency of intake for complex cognitive support supplements typically depends on the total daily recommended dose and the ingredient profile. Some formulations are designed for a single daily dose, while others suggest splitting the intake into two servings, such as morning and evening. Always follow the specific product's instructions for optimal use.
BioPerine, an extract from black pepper, is often included in supplements to enhance the bioavailability of other ingredients. It is believed to improve the absorption of various nutrients by increasing their uptake in the digestive tract. This can lead to more efficient utilization of the active compounds in the formula.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Ginkgo biloba may have antiplatelet effects and could increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications such as warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before combining them. Your doctor can assess the potential risks.
Ginkgo biloba may interact with certain antidepressant medications, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). This could potentially lead to adverse effects or alter the effectiveness of the medication. Discuss any concerns with your doctor.
The Toothed Clubmoss extract in this product contains Huperzine A, which affects acetylcholine levels. Combining it with medications for Alzheimer's disease (like donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) or other cholinergic drugs could lead to additive effects or adverse reactions. Professional medical advice is recommended.
Velvet Bean seed extract naturally contains L-Dopa, which can interact with medications for Parkinson's disease, certain antidepressants (MAOIs), and blood pressure-lowering drugs. These interactions could potentially cause adverse side effects or affect medication efficacy. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.
Fish oil, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, can have mild blood-thinning effects. When combined with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, it could theoretically increase the risk of bleeding. Consult your doctor if you are on such medications.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 15 Calorie(s) |
| Total Fat | 1 Gram(s) |
| Cholesterol | 5 mg |
| Protein | 1 Gram(s) |
| Choline (Choline Bitartrate) | 30 mg |
| Fish Oil (Fish) | 600 mg |
| Ginkgo, Powder (Ginkgo biloba, Powder) | 400 mg |
| Ginkgo Leaf Extract | 120 mg |
| Dimethylaminoethanol Bitartrate | 40 mg |
| Trimethylglycine Hydrochloride | 40 mg |
| Acetyl-L-Carnitine (Acetyl-L-Carnitine Hydrochloride) | 25 mg |
| Alpha-Lipoic Acid | 15 mg |
| Velvet Bean seed extract | 10 mg |
| Toothed Clubmoss Leaf Extract | 1 mg |
| BioPerine Complex | 6 mg |
Categories
Ginkgo 65.0
Ginkgo Smart includes a decent dose of Ginkgo Leaf Extract (120mg), which is typically standardized for active compounds. While the additional 400mg of Ginkgo powder is less reliably potent, the combined amount offers a reasonable, though not exceptional, concentration of Ginkgo compared to single-ingredient Ginkgo products.
Fish Oil 40.0
The product contains 600mg of Fish Oil. While a source of beneficial omega-3s, this is a moderate dose and the crucial specific amounts of EPA and DHA (the primary active compounds) are not listed. Many dedicated fish oil supplements offer higher total omega-3 content and clearly state their EPA/DHA concentrations, providing more robust cardiovascular and brain support.
Deanol 30.0
The product contains Dimethylaminoethanol Bitartrate (DMAE) at 40mg. This dosage is on the lower end for DMAE, with many dedicated DMAE supplements or comprehensive nootropic formulas providing 100mg to 500mg for more pronounced cognitive or mood effects.
Goals
General Health 50.0
As a multi-ingredient formula, Ginkgo Smart offers a modest array of compounds that generally contribute to overall well-being. Ingredients like fish oil, BioPerine, and antioxidants provide some general health benefits, but the widespread underdosing of many active components limits its effectiveness as a comprehensive general health supplement compared to more robust formulations.
Brain Health 45.0
While Ginkgo Biloba extract is well-regarded for brain health and is adequately dosed (120mg extract), other brain-supportive ingredients like Choline (30mg), DMAE (40mg), Acetyl-L-Carnitine (25mg), and Alpha-Lipoic Acid (15mg) are present in minimal, often ineffective, amounts. The overall contribution to significant brain health improvement is therefore limited to primarily the Ginkgo component.
The product provides 600mg of Fish Oil, which contributes beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids for cardiovascular health, although specific EPA/DHA content is not detailed. Ginkgo also supports circulation, and TMG can help with homocysteine levels, offering moderate support, but more potent effects would require higher dosages or standardized omega-3 content.
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