Brain Factors
Thorne
Brain Factors
4.6
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(244 ratings)
Niacin 415 mg
Betaine Anhydrous 85 mg
Score 88.0
Thorne Brain Factors is a high-quality supplement that combines Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) for cellular energy and NAD+ support, CognatiQ for brain health and BDNF, and Betaine Anhydrous for methylation and cardiovascular benefits, despite its broad goal listing.
Quantity: 30 Capsule(s)Servings size: 1 Capsule(s) (30 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Heart Health
Skin Health
Energy
Metabolism Boost
Fitness
leaderboard Score 88.0
Thorne Brain Factors is a high-quality supplement that combines Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) for cellular energy and NAD+ support, CognatiQ for brain health and BDNF, and Betaine Anhydrous for methylation and cardiovascular benefits, despite its broad goal listing.
insights Analysis
Thorne's Brain Factors is a premium supplement designed to support cellular energy, metabolic health, and cognitive function through its unique blend of Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), CognatiQ (Coffee Fruit Extract), and Betaine Anhydrous. NR is a well-researched precursor to NAD+, a coenzyme vital for numerous cellular processes, including energy production and DNA repair, which broadly supports overall health including heart, skin, and metabolism. CognatiQ specifically targets brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), crucial for neuroplasticity and cognitive vitality, aligning well with the product's name 'Brain Factors.' Betaine Anhydrous, or TMG, supports methylation, which is important for cardiovascular health and athletic performance. While the explicitly listed goals for this product are broad (Heart Health, Skin Health, Energy, Metabolism Boost, Fitness, Muscle Gain, Cardiovascular Support), the ingredient profile strongly emphasizes advanced cellular health and cognitive support.
- Contains Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), a cutting-edge ingredient for NAD+ synthesis and cellular energy.
- Includes CognatiQ, a patented coffee fruit extract known to support brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) for cognitive health.
- Formulated by Thorne, a brand highly regarded by nutritionists and consumers for quality, purity, and scientific backing.
- Betaine Anhydrous supports cardiovascular health and athletic performance.
- High price per serving ($1.70) makes it less accessible for some users compared to single-ingredient alternatives.
- The listed goals (e.g., Muscle Gain) are not strongly supported by the primary ingredients, which are more geared towards cellular and cognitive health.
- Relatively low review count compared to some mass-market alternatives, which might indicate a niche audience.
- Individuals sensitive to coffee-derived products (from CognatiQ) might experience mild stimulation, though typically less than caffeine.
- As with any supplement, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional, especially if pregnant, nursing, or on medication, due to the active ingredients.
$45.90($1.53 per serving)
 iHerb | $ 45.90 | |
 Walmart | $ 51.00 | |
 Pure Formulas | $ 51.00 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is primarily recognized for its role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, particularly increasing HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering triglycerides. It also plays a vital role in energy metabolism and DNA repair, contributing to overall cellular function.
Niacin, or Vitamin B3, is essential for energy metabolism and DNA repair. High doses of a specific form, nicotinic acid, are sometimes used under medical supervision to help manage cholesterol levels. Niacinamide, another form, is often found in skin care products.
Niacin can help improve cholesterol profiles by significantly raising high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and lowering triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. These actions are considered beneficial for supporting overall cardiovascular health, particularly in individuals with dyslipidemia.
Betaine Anhydrous, also known as Trimethylglycine (TMG), is primarily recognized for its role in homocysteine metabolism, helping to convert it to methionine. This action supports cardiovascular health and liver function. It is also explored for its potential to enhance athletic performance and body composition.
Nicotinic acid, a form of niacin, can significantly lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL ("good") cholesterol. This effect contributes to cardiovascular health, especially when medically monitored for lipid management. Its role in primary prevention of cardiovascular events is still debated.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
The main forms are nicotinic acid, niacinamide (nicotinamide), and inositol hexanicotinate. Nicotinic acid is primarily used for cholesterol management and can cause a 'flush,' while niacinamide does not cause a flush and is often used for skin health. Inositol hexanicotinate is marketed as 'flush-free' but its efficacy for cholesterol lowering is less established.
To minimize the 'niacin flush,' nicotinic acid is often recommended to be taken with meals, especially with a low-fat snack, and with a glass of water. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it can also help the body adjust. Some individuals may take aspirin 30 minutes before their dose, but this should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
For general dietary purposes, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for niacin is 16 mg for adult men and 14 mg for adult women. Therapeutic doses for specific conditions, such as cholesterol management, are often much higher and should be determined and monitored by a healthcare professional.
Yes, niacinamide (nicotinamide) generally does not cause the 'flush' associated with nicotinic acid, so it doesn't require the same precautions regarding food or gradual titration. Nicotinic acid is often taken with food to buffer its effects. Dosage recommendations also differ, as niacinamide is typically used for general vitamin B3 support, while nicotinic acid is sometimes used for specific lipid management under supervision.
Niacin supplements are typically available in several forms, including immediate-release niacin (nicotinic acid), extended-release niacin, and no-flush niacin (inositol hexanicotinate or niacinamide). Each form has different absorption rates, metabolic pathways, and potential side effects.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Yes, Niacin can interact with several medications. It may enhance the effects of blood pressure-lowering drugs, potentially leading to low blood pressure. Niacin can also interact with statins, possibly increasing the risk of muscle problems or liver issues in some individuals. Individuals taking medications for diabetes should be aware that niacin might affect blood sugar levels.
The most common side effect of nicotinic acid is the 'niacin flush,' characterized by redness, itching, and warmth of the skin. Other potential side effects at higher doses include stomach upset, elevated liver enzymes, and increased blood sugar. Niacinamide generally does not cause the flush.
Niacin, especially in its nicotinic acid form, can commonly cause a 'niacin flush,' which involves skin redness, warmth, itching, and tingling. Other potential side effects include gastrointestinal upset like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These effects are often dose-dependent and can sometimes be mitigated by taking niacin with food or using a sustained-release form.
Yes, niacin can interact with various medications, including statins, blood pressure medications, and blood thinners. It can also affect blood sugar levels, which is important for individuals with diabetes. It's crucial to consult a healthcare provider before taking niacin, especially if you are on other medications.
Some research indicates that Betaine Anhydrous, particularly at higher doses, may lead to an increase in total cholesterol and LDL ('bad') cholesterol levels in certain individuals. This effect is not universally observed but should be considered, especially for those with existing cardiovascular risk factors. Regular monitoring of lipid panels is recommended if you are concerned.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Nicotinamide Riboside Hydrogen Malate | 415 mg |
| CognatiQ (Coffee Fruit Extract) | 100 mg |
| Betaine Anhydrous | 85 mg |
Categories
Niacin 95.0
The product contains Nicotinamide Riboside Hydrogen Malate, which is a highly effective and well-researched form of Vitamin B3 (Niacin) that significantly boosts NAD+ levels without causing the typical 'niacin flush' associated with nicotinic acid. This makes it a superior and preferred form for cellular health applications.
Betaine Anhydrous 85.0
The product includes Betaine Anhydrous (85mg), which is a supportive dose for its role in methylation, homocysteine reduction, and cellular hydration. While some athletic performance studies use higher doses, this amount is effective for general health and complements the other ingredients in supporting overall metabolic and cardiovascular well-being.
Goals
Energy 90.0
Nicotinamide Riboside is a direct precursor to NAD+, which is crucial for the body's primary energy production pathways at the cellular level, leading to enhanced overall vitality. CognatiQ also contributes to mental energy and focus through its brain-supporting mechanisms.
Metabolism Boost 85.0
NR plays a central role in various metabolic pathways by increasing NAD+ levels, which are essential for nutrient metabolism and efficient energy utilization throughout the body. Betaine Anhydrous also supports healthy methylation cycles, which are fundamental to numerous metabolic processes.
Heart Health 80.0
Nicotinamide Riboside supports healthy cellular function, including cardiovascular cells, by boosting NAD+ levels. Betaine Anhydrous further contributes by helping to reduce homocysteine levels, a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, thus providing foundational support for heart health.
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