15 Brain-Boosting Juices and Beverages

Everyone is looking for a way to increase their productivity and quality of life. And one of those ways is to increase brain function and things like memory and focus. In the interest of this pursuit, something called nootropics are growing in popularity. Nootropics are also known as smart drugs, and they are both natural and synthetic and have the ability to increase brain function. There are certain drinks that even naturally have nootropic compounds. To learn more, check out these 15 brain-boosting juices and beverages.

Coffee

Coffee is one of the most popular nootropic beverages, that most don’t know contain this benefit. Caffeine and compounds like chlorogenic acid all help brain function. It has also been shown to help prevent Alzheimer’s and increase focus, alertness, and memory. This is with 5 to 3 cups, and sources say can be safely consumed in up to 4 cups daily.

Green Tea

While it contains less caffeine, green tea is rich in other nootropic compounds like l-theanine and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These compounds promote relaxation and improve attention. They can also support memory and attention span. EGCG is also able to cross the blood-brain barrier, which can help to fight neurodegeneration.

Kombucha

Kombucha is a great fermented beverage containing probiotics that can heal your gut. Gut health is actually one of the most important ways to improve brain health. This is because research has shown that your gut is directly tied to your brain, and they communicate directly.

Orange Juice

Orange juice is beneficial for brain health because of its richness of Vitamin C, which has neuroprotective abilities. Studies have shown that people with higher levels of Vitamin C have better memory and attention. Orange juice is to be consumed with care because its high sugar levels are not the best.

Blueberry Juice

Ever tried blueberry juice? Well, give it a shot if you are looking to increase brain health. Blueberry juice contains antioxidants like anthocyanins which can help your brain operate better. It has been shown to improve both long and short-term memory.

Green Juice and Smoothies

While the results may vary based on ingredients, green juice and smoothies are great for brain health. They are typically very high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Try using ingredients like leafy greens, cucumbers, herbs, avocado, banana, and green apples.

Turmeric Latte

Turmeric is a powerhouse spice that contains the antioxidant curcumin. This compound helps increase production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which can fight against neurological disorders. Turmeric is easy to add to food and beverages, and makes a great latte. This can be made by combining milk, turmeric, honey or agave syrup, and optional toppings like cinnamon or black pepper.

Adaptogenic Lattes

Adaptogenic Lattes might contain something like mushrooms, maca root and ashwagandha. These drinks can help to adapt your body to stress and decrease fatigue on the brain. They have many unique ingredients that have all sorts of adaptogenic benefits. Components in this beverage may be easier to find in a premade powder or mix rather than in the natural form.

Beetroot Juice

Beets are great sources of nitrates and nitric oxide, which help increase cell oxygenation and blood flow. Studies have shown that nitric oxide can also influence decision making, language, and learning. So increasing your intake of nitric oxide through beetroot juice can give your brain a boost.

Herbal Teas

Herbal teas are a great all around beverage to consume, and include:

• Sage Tea

Sage is known to improve memory and mood.

• Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba has long been touted as a great memory booster. Studies have shown that it can also ease Alzheimer’s symptoms.

• Ashwagandha

This herb can help to fight against the development of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

• Rhodiola

Rhodiola has been shown to help ease mental fatigue and brain functioning.

• Ginseng

Studies have shown that ginseng can help the brain function as well.

Kefir

Kefir is also fermented and is loaded with probiotics. These probiotics work great to improve gut health, and thus, the communication channel between the gut and the brain. This is due to its ability to create healthy bacteria in the gut. You can either make this beverage yourself or buy it in stores.