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Brain Essentials
Swanson
4.6
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(781 ratings)
Ginkgo
Vitamin B6 25 mg
Vitamin B5 25 mg
Vitamin B12 250 mcg
Tyrosine 100 mg
Deanol 25 mg
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
Score 65.0
A budget-friendly multi-ingredient brain support supplement offering a wide range of components. While comprehensive in scope, the low dosages of several key nootropic ingredients may limit its overall efficacy for significant cognitive or mood improvements.
Quantity: 60 Capsule(s)Servings size: 1 Veggie Capsule(s) (60 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Brain Health
Cognitive Support
Cardiovascular Support
Energy
Mood Support
leaderboard Score 65.0
A budget-friendly multi-ingredient brain support supplement offering a wide range of components. While comprehensive in scope, the low dosages of several key nootropic ingredients may limit its overall efficacy for significant cognitive or mood improvements.
Swanson Brain Essentials aims to support multiple facets of brain function and general well-being through a blend of B vitamins, amino acids, and herbal extracts. It combines ingredients like Ginkgo biloba, known for improving cerebral blood flow, with essential B vitamins (B5, B6, B12) that are vital for neurotransmitter synthesis and energy metabolism. The inclusion of Phosphatidylserine and DHA is beneficial for brain cell structure and communication, though their dosages are significantly below typical therapeutic levels. L-Tyrosine and DMAE are included for mood and focus, while Alpha-Lipoic Acid provides antioxidant support. Gotu Kola is added for its traditional cognitive and stress-relief properties, and L-Glutamine for general health. The product's main appeal lies in its comprehensive ingredient list for its price point. However, the efficacy of certain compounds is severely hampered by their minimal quantities, leading to a 'dusting' effect rather than a substantial contribution to the stated goals. Online reviews often praise its affordability and general feeling of well-being, but specific dramatic improvements linked to individual low-dosed ingredients are less commonly reported. Nutritionists would likely recommend higher, more targeted supplementation for individuals with specific cognitive or mood concerns.
- Contains a wide array of ingredients targeting multiple brain health aspects.
- Very affordable price per serving, making it accessible.
- Includes essential B vitamins (B5, B6, B12) at adequate levels for general metabolism and nerve function.
- Ginkgo biloba is included at a reasonable dose, known for circulation support.
- Many crucial nootropic ingredients (Phosphatidylserine, DMAE, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, DHA, L-Tyrosine, L-Glutamine) are severely underdosed, likely limiting their individual effectiveness.
- The Cyanocobalamin form of Vitamin B12 is less bioavailable than Methylcobalamin, which some individuals may prefer.
- The overall impact on specific cognitive or mood goals might be subtle due to low ingredient concentrations.
- Lack of detailed standardization for some herbal extracts beyond Ginkgo.
- Individuals taking blood thinners should consult a doctor due to Ginkgo biloba's potential anti-platelet effects.
- While dosages are low, potential interactions with other medications should be considered given the wide range of ingredients.
- The low dosage of some key ingredients means individuals with significant deficiencies or specific therapeutic needs might not experience adequate benefits.
$10.49($0.17 per serving)
 Amazon | $ 14.37 | |
 Walmart | $ 14.37 | |
 iHerb | $ 10.49 |
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) | 25 mg |
| Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) | 250 mcg |
| Pantothenic Acid (D-Calcium Pantothenate) | 25 mg |
| Gotu Kola extract (Asiaticosides) | 150 mg |
| L-Glutamine | 100 mg |
| L-Tyrosine | 100 mg |
| Soy Lecithin (Phosphatidylcholine) | 100 mg |
| Ginkgo biloba leaf extract (Terpene Lactones, Flavone Glycosides) | 60 mg |
| Docosahexaenoic Acid | 30 mg |
| Alpha-Lipoic Acid | 25 mg |
| DMAE Bitartrate | 25 mg |
| Phosphatidylserine | 1 mg |
Categories
Vitamin B6 85.0
With 25mg of Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, the product delivers a robust dose of Vitamin B6, significantly exceeding the RDA. This supports various metabolic processes and neurotransmitter synthesis efficiently.
Vitamin B5 85.0
The 25mg of Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) is a good dose, supporting the production of coenzyme A, essential for energy metabolism and the synthesis of neurotransmitters, contributing effectively to these functions.
Vitamin B12 80.0
The product provides 250mcg of Vitamin B12, which is an ample amount for daily needs and well above the recommended daily allowance, supporting energy and nerve function. However, it uses Cyanocobalamin, a synthetic form, rather than the more bioavailable Methylcobalamin found in some alternatives.
Goals
General Health 75.0
The inclusion of essential B vitamins, a general antioxidant (ALA), and basic amino acids provides a good base for overall bodily function and general wellness, contributing to foundational health beyond specific brain targets.
Energy 70.0
The product contains adequate doses of B vitamins (B5, B6, B12) which are essential for cellular energy production. L-Tyrosine and DMAE, though at lower doses, can also contribute to mental energy and alertness, providing a decent foundational support.
Metabolism Boost 65.0
B vitamins (B5, B6, B12) are critical cofactors in metabolic pathways, and their doses are sufficient for general metabolic support. Alpha-Lipoic Acid, an antioxidant involved in metabolism, is present but at a minimal dosage, limiting its contribution.
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