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What supplements are for boosting focus and concentration skills?

The specific benefits of brain vitamins and supplements can vary, such as increased focus and memory boost, and the benefits don’t yet have strong scientific backing towards them. Nevertheless, these supplements are called nootropics, and they’re natural supplements or drugs that may boost memory, motivation, creativity, alertness and general cognitive function. Those with ADHD and older adults may need supplement boosts for better cognitive function and there is some research suggesting supplements may also help reduce age-related decline in brain function.

Caffeine is the most obvious stimulant for making people more alert and less tired — it’s also been linked to improving memory, reaction times and brain function — but this can be easily taken through coffee, tea and dark chocolate. B vitamins are also known to improve overall cognitive function, with some studies showing improvements in focus or concentration specifically, which can help when studying. Fish oil supplements are a rich source of two types of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to improved brain health. One type, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), in particular, plays a vital role in maintaining our brain’s structure and function.

Resveratrol has been suggested to prevent the deterioration of the hippocampus, the part of the brain associated with memory, while creatine, a supplement commonly taken by fitness enthusiasts for its role in energy metabolism, may also improve memory and thinking skills, especially for those who don’t eat meat.

For improved thinking skills and memory, phosphatidylserine supplements can be taken, while acetyl-L-carnitine supplements have been claimed to make you feel more alert and can increase learning capacity. Rhodiola rosea, a herbal supplement, is thought to also reduce fatigue and improve brain function.

When searching for supplements for focus and concentration, remember that while some do show promise for improving brain function, there isn't enough conclusive research on them at this juncture and many may only be effective for people who have a mental condition or are deficient in the nutrient taken.