At SOMA Analytics we are always keen to examine new nootropic supplements when they are released. With doubts over the formulations in NeuroQ we held back – but now, having tested the NeuroQ Memory and Focus supplement for 5 weeks – we have our verdict in this full NeuroQ review.
NeuroQ claims to enhance cognitive function, improve memory, and increase focus. But does it live up to the hype? In this review, I’ll give you my personal experience and detailed analysis of NeuroQ.
Quick Verdit: NeuroQ
NeuroQ is a nootropic supplement developed by neurologist Dr. Dale Bredesen and is designed to enhance cognitive function, promote memory retention, and increase focus. It contains some brain boosting ingredients, but at the doses offered, there is not enough scientific evidence supporting the claims of NeuroQ.
I would opt for a more well-rounded nootropic supplement such as Mind Vitality Focus, which includes 17 well-dosed ingredients at a lower price point when saving 20% on their money back guaranteed subscription plans.
What Is The NeuroQ Supplement?
At the core of our reasoning, learning, and perception capabilities lies our brain – the most sophisticated and complex organ that we have.
As someone constantly in search of ways to enhance cognitive capabilities, I’m always on the lookout for something new to give me the edge. Enter NeuroQ – a line of nootropic supplements designed to boost brain health and performance. Developed by reputed neurologist Dr. Dale Bredesen, NeuroQ aims to improve your cognitive faculties that empower you to think, learn and focus.
Unlike most nootropic supplements, NeuroQ has a range of different variations – similar to what you might find with Alpha Brain or Thesis.
The product line of NeuroQ presents fairly comprehensive formulas that primarily aim to promote memory retention and focus, with others that offer faster thinking and sleep benefits (NeuroQ Sleep Now).
I tested the original formula which promises to push blood flow to the brain, which if successful could essentially fuel and re-energize your brain cells for optimum cognition.
They also offer an Extra Strength variant that includes huperzine A, a herb extract renowned for its brain-protective properties. Not only does it shield long-term brain health but also it mitigates symptoms of brain fog whilst offering energy production in the brain. Unfortunately, when I see ‘extra strength’ options it always makes me question why the doses are not higher in the ‘standard’ formulas, but let’s give NeuroQ the benefit of the doubt for now – and see how I got on with it.
NeuroQ Natural Ingredients
Each version of NeuroQ has slightly different ingredients, but if we take a look at NeuroQ Memory and Focus Extra Strength which is the one I tested, it will give us a good idea of what brain-boosting elements it has. Each ingredient is supposedly chosen to improve cognitive function, support long-term neurological health, improve memory and promote sharpness of thought.
Let’s take a closer look.
Gotu Kola Aerial Extract
Gotu Kola Aerial Extract is a plant extract revered for its potential cognitive benefits. In several studies, I’ve seen its use linked to improved memory, increased focus, and better overall cognitive function. It’s also believed to support brain health and protect against age-related cognitive decline. So it makes sense why it would be included for in a supplement aimed at improving memory and mental clarity.
Turmeric Rhizome Extract
Another key ingredient is Turmeric Rhizome Extract, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. These are critical in combating oxidative stress and inflammation, two silent culprits contributing to brain aging and cognitive decline. Regular consumption of this ingredient may support brain health and improve memory although it’s impact on memory support is limited in its research.
Ginkgo Leaf Extract
Ginkgo Leaf Extract is a highly potent ingredient often found in memory-supporting supplements. Its primary function is to increase blood flow to the brain, which in turn enhances memory and concentration. A massive bonus for anyone looking to gain that competitive edge mentally.
Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine is another effective component in NeuroQ’s formula and one that I’m a big fan of. As a phospholipid, it upholds the structure and function of brain cell membranes, promoting healthier brain function. In turn, this supports enhanced cognitive performance and may potentially slow cognitive decline.
NeuroFactor Coffee Fruit Extract
NeuroFactor Coffee Fruit Extract is a unique ingredient exclusive to NeuroQ’s formula. It’s rich in polyphenols, which stimulate brain function and memory. Think of this ingredient as a healthy alternative to a cup of coffee, giving you a dose of 100mg caffeine without the jitters, working to keep your brain sharp throughout the day.
Huperzine A
The last noteworthy component in the NeuroQ formula is Huperzine A. It naturally boosts the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for learning and memory. For those seeking to expand their learning capability or retain more information, the presence of Huperzine A in NeuroQ is indeed an architecture for cognitive excellence. This is strangely not found in the standard NeuroQ formula and is reserved for the extra strength version – which to me, already renders the standard version as redundant.
NeuroQ’s Claims
Let’s investigate into NeuroQ’s clear-cut, bold claims and the scientific truth behind them. These claims revolve around improving memory, focus, enhancing blood flow to the brain, and boosting brain function.
1. “A powerful formula to improve memory, focus, and mental sharpness.”
Here, NeuroQ is stepping up to the challenge of cognitive enhancement. The powerhouse ingredients such as Ginkgo biloba, Phosphatidylserine, and NeuroFactor Coffee Fruit Extract cited by LifeSeasons to back this claim do have research suggesting cognitive benefits. But, my analysis reveals the dosages could potentially be underdosed, lacking the punch required for substantial impact.
2. “Fuel. Gets the blood pumping to your brain so it can fire on all cylinders.”
NeuroQ promises to enhance cerebral circulation with the inclusion of Ginkgo biloba. This plant extract, known to improve blood circulation, is believed to pump fresh blood to our brains. Still, at 120mg per NeuroQ dose, that’s lower than the typically recommended effective dosage range of 120-240mg.
Scientific Assessment of NeuroQ’s Claims
The scientific veracity of NeuroQ’s claims hinges on the supplement’s ingredient profile. From my research and existing knowledge, I would say that certain components do show potential in fulfilling some of these claims. But, the dosages of these ingredients are too low to have an optimal effect. Additionally, there are some key nootropic ingredients that I would like to see included in their stacks that are simply lacking.
As such, the effectiveness of NeuroQ’s formula depends largely on individual user response and although for beginner nootropic users it will likely have some impact, it probably won’t go far enough and for users who have supplemented for a while with other nootropics, there will likely not be enough here to make it worth it.
NeuroQ Ingredients: Scientific Evidence
Phosphatidylserine (PS) Analysis
There is 100 mg per serving or PS in NeuroQ, which is in line with what we see in other nootropics such as Hunter Focus and Mind Vitality Focus.
This ingredient supports clear thinking, increases blood flow to the brain, and has further potential to rejuvenate the brain for enhanced memory function through the increase of BDNF. The International Society of Sports Nutrition recognizes Phosphatidylserine as a safe nutrient that can potentially increase cognitive functioning and capacity, especially in high-stress contexts.
Turmeric and Brain Health
NeuroQ attributes the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of Turmeric as a means to energize brain cells with oxygen for better memory and cognition. But, it’s important to note, while Turmeric is celebrated for its numerous health benefits, the specific impact on brain function requires further investigation and is certainly not clear.
It is not found in most nootropic supplements and is easy and inexpesnive to supplement separately if you wanted to. This feels like something of a filler ingredient in NeuroQ.
Evaluating Ginkgo Biloba
With 120 mg of Ginkgo Biloba, this ingredient aims to improve recall, promote faster thinking, enhance memory, and sharpen mental activity. It has been widely researched for its neuroprotective effects and potential to improve cognitive functions. Although it comes in a relatively low doses in NeuroQ, its inclusion alongside other ingredients could potentially amplify its impact.
Strength with Huperzine A
Finally, NeuroQ Extra Strength contains an additional 200 mcg of Huperzine A, a compound found in certain herbs known for enhancing cognitive performance by inhibiting an enzyme that degrades the learning neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. This results in a surplus of acetylcholine, leading to enhanced focus and memory.
While scientific research backs most of these ingredients individually, the compounding effect of them blended together as NeuroQ still requires more exploration. But considering the dosages and how these ingredients complement each other, I reckon NeuroQ has the potential to bring some (if not all) of the expected cognitive benefits.
My Experience Using NeuroQ For 30 Days
For 30 days straight, I followed the recommended dosage instructions of NeuroQ. I was particularly intrigued by NeuroQ’s development by the renowned neurologist, Dr. Dale Bredesen, something that prompted me to put the product to the test.
I took a one week break from my usual Mind Vitality Focus supplement to try and ensure I was starting from a blank-ish slate with NeuroQ.
During the first week, I didn’t notice any significant cognitive improvements. My sharpness and memory seemed to mirror my pre-NeuroQ state but nowhere near how I felt when using Mind Vitality. I did feel a slight increase in energy levels, which might be attributed to NeuroQ’s caffeine coffee bean extract.
In the second week, I felt a slight elevation in my concentration. Handling multiple tasks without getting lost or confused seemed more seamless. I decided to attribute this to Huperzine A, present in the Extra Strength variant. As mentioned, this ingredient is backed by research, this compound has shown positive effects on cognitive performance and focus.
Things got interesting in the third week. I felt less brain fog, noticed a clearer train of thought, and began experiencing vivid and memorable dreams. Could this be the Turmeric and Ginkgo Leaf extracts kicking in? While intrigued, I remained aware that personal experience could be subjective and susceptible to placebo effects.
By the final week, my key observation was the mild but consistent improvements in my daily cognitive function. My claims do align somewhat with NeuroQ’s, primarily about improved focus and mental clarity, although they were less stark than advertised.
While my experience with NeuroQ showed subtle improvements, I detected no significant leaps in memory or cognitive functioning. Also, I agree with the observation about potentially underdosed ingredients, as the effects were not as strong as expected and as what I experience with other supplements.
Even though NeuroQ showed some promise, I believe the effectiveness may require a longer consumption period or higher doses. I would also add that without the Huperzine A, the supplement is very weak, so my initial doubts over the standard version are pretty well founded and if you are going to opt for NeuroQ I would suggest you definitely go for the extra strength version.
Overall, my personal NeuroQ journey was a positive one, albeit with more subtle changes than advertised. As always, remember individual responses may vary, so I recommend tailoring your decision around your personal health needs and consulting with a healthcare provider.
Overall Verdict
After weeks of testing, I’ve found NeuroQ to be a competent nootropic, although nowhere near as powerful as I’d like.
The extra strength version does carry some merit and promotes blood flow and offers some support against harmful toxins and free radicals, but nowhere near enough in my opinion.
There are key ingredients not included that I am used to seeing and using in other supplements and that I believe will offer better memory and concentration improvements.
If you want to boost your brain power and look after it’s health then I would go for something like Mind Vitality Focus instead.
