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10 Best Nootropics for Optimizing Your Muscle Growth (2023)

Tyler Sellers
Published by Tyler Sellers | Senior Coach
Last updated: August 26, 2023
We personally test every product featured in our reviews and guides. By ordering products anonymously and getting a group of independent testers, we are able to get first-hand experience and provide data-driven recommendations. Learn more.

As a fitness expert with more than 6 years of experience, I understand the brain isn't that excited about a hard, challenging workout when it's short on mental performance and stressed out.

This is where nootropics for bodybuilding come into play. Our team gathered 20 clients to investigate and put the best nootropics (or smart drugs) for muscle building to the test.

Here's our roundup of 10 best nootropics for bodybuilding on the market.

Editor's Choice
Mind Lab Pro
Mind Lab Pro
Ingredients
4.9
Effectiveness
5.0
Price
4.8
Overall Score 4.9
4.9
Click For Best Price
#2nd Best Choice
Onnit Alpha Brain CTA
Onnit
Ingredients
4.9
Effectiveness
4.9
Price
4.7
Overall Score 4.8
4.8
Click For Best Price
#3rd Best Choice
Gorilla Mind Smooth
Gorilla Mind
Ingredients
4.8
Effectiveness
4.8
Price
4.7
Overall Score 4.8
4.8
Click For Best Price

Our Top Best Nootropics for Muscle Growth (September 2023)

1 - Mind Lab Pro (Editor's Choice)

Mind Lab Pro
Ingredients
4.9
Effectiveness
5.0
Price
4.8
Overall Score 4.9
4.9

Bodybuilding requires a high level of concentration. Simply put, it means putting aside distractions so you can concentrate on the task.

Mind Lab Pro can enhance mental clarity and guard against memory loss since it contains phosphatidylserine [1].

Mind Lab Pro also promises to eliminate brain fog and improve attention and concentration.

It includes both L-theanine and L-tyrosine, which can improve your mind-muscle connection at the gym while also increasing your energy levels [2].

With Mind Lab Pro, I saw an immediate change in my concentration, memory, and focus, helping me complete workouts without crashes.

Supplement Facts:

  • Citicoline : 250 mg
  • Bacopa Monnieri : 150 mg
  • Lion's Mane Mushroom : 500 mg
  • Acetyl-L-Tyrosine : 175 mg
Pros
  • It has a natural nootropic formulation
  • It enhances cognitive function
  • It has a clinical research support
  • It does not include caffeine
Cons
  • Quite expensive

2 - Onnit Alpha Brain

Onnit Alpha Brain CTA
Ingredients
4.9
Effectiveness
4.9
Price
4.7
Overall Score 4.8
4.8

Onnit Alpha Brain supplements contain nootropics, which improve cognitive abilities.

Alpha Brain works by assisting an individual in reacting more quickly to stimuli, focusing on complex tasks such as weight lifting, achieving mental clarity even under stress, and eliminating brain fog.

Onnit Alpha Brain nutritional nootropic supplements assist users in entering the zone state, characterized by an ideal form of awareness. In this state, the brain generates more alpha waves, which manifesting enhanced productivity gains.

I felt the benefits of Onnit Alpha Brain after about half an hour of using it, and though it's not that potent, its effects lasted for about four to three hours.

Supplement Facts:

  • Onnit Focus Blend : 240 mg
  • Onnit Flow Blend : 650 mg
  • Onnit Fuel Blend : 60 mg
Pros
  • It can be used in conjunction with practically any dietary requirement
  • It has a longer flow state than other nootropics
  • It aids in concentration and increases the attention span
Cons
  • Expensive

3 - Gorilla Mind Smooth

Gorilla Mind Smooth
Ingredients
4.8
Effectiveness
4.8
Price
4.7
Overall Score 4.8
4.8

Gorilla Mind Smooth offers improved focus and clarity towards your workout.

You will be able to complete your reps and sets without the jitters.

Gorilla Mind Smooth is devoid of harmful stimulants, allowing for a smoother, less intense level of energy while optimizing the brain power you want in a nootropic solution.

The formula's complementing nootropics work together to regulate mood, promote well-being, and boost general motivation and productivity levels.

After using Gorilla Mind Smooth for two weeks, I saw a difference: it eliminated my brain fog and gave me stronger mental clarity.

Supplement Facts:

  • Alpha GPC : 600 mg
  • Bacopa Monnieri : 165 mg
  • Ginkgo extract : 180 mg
  • Kanna : 250 mg
Pros
  • It does not contain any stimulants
  • Helps calm down the brain while maximizing mental clarity
  • It has herbal ingredients that have been clinically tested
Cons
  • Its ingredients are a bit low dosed

4 - Noocube

NOOCUBE Brain Productivity
Ingredients
4.9
Effectiveness
4.8
Price
4.8
Overall Score 4.8
4.8

Noocube is a dietary supplement that can prevent brain cell degradation linked with aging and maintain the brain functionally and effectively for much longer.

Noocube will help you improve attention, learn to focus, have enough energy, and be more motivated to work out.

Its constituents are dosed to provide optimum benefits while minimizing side effects.

Although it took a while to feel Noocube's effects, I stuck with it, and it finally made me feel motivated and focused on my workouts and other activities.

Supplement Facts:

  • Tributyrin : 1000 mg
  • Sunfiber : 200 mg
  • Bacillus : Coagulans 16 mg
Pros
  • It leads to an increase in neurotransmitters such as serotonin
  • It does not contain stimulants and is GMO-free
  • It enhances the gut-brain axis and stabilizes mood and memory
Cons
  • It takes almost a week to feel the effects

5 - Hunter Focus

Hunter Evolve Focus
Ingredients
4.8
Effectiveness
4.9
Price
4.7
Overall Score 4.8
4.8

Hunter Focus is a tried-and-true nootropic with advantages such as better memory/recall, increased focus, and boosted mood thanks to each amino acid in its formula.

Other nootropic benefits include enhanced creativity, better energy levels for training, and improved learning.

Since Hunter Focus doesn't include caffeine, the premise is that you will experience the boost throughout the day without any crash at the end.

It contains natural compounds such as L-theanine, which boosts motivation while encouraging brain cell development, performance, and activity [3].

"L-theanine works on numerous fronts, including increasing inhibitory neurotransmitter levels in the brain and encouraging relaxation."

- Paul Salter, Master of Surgery

While on Hunter Focus, I was able to complete my workouts on time due to the increased focus, mental energy, and motivation to train.

Supplement Facts:

  • Caffeine Anhydrous : 100 mg
  • L-theanine : 200 mg
  • Citicoline : 250 mg
  • L-tyrosine : 500 mg
Pros
  • It has higher, more potent doses than other nootropics
  • There are no additives or artificial tastes in it
  • It contains amino acids and natural herbs
Cons
  • It is not a vegan or vegetarian-friendly supplement

6 - Centrapeak

Centrapeak in white background
Ingredients
4.9
Effectiveness
4.8
Price
4.7
Overall Score 4.8
4.8

Centrapeak feeds your body with natural nutrients that lower cortisol levels and relieve stress, while improving low testosterone levels.

Besides boosting free testosterone, enhancing your sexual life, and relieving anxiety, Centrapeak may aid in sharpening your intellect, improving cognitive function, boosting stamina and strength, bul, and promoting weight loss.

Its active element, zinc citrate, is necessary for maintaining normal serum testosterone levels and increased energy levels for immune system strengthening, optimal sports performance, and muscle mass growth.

"Zinc is a trace mineral, which means that only minimal amounts are required. It plays an important role in the formation of DNA, cell proliferation, protein synthesis, the repair of damaged tissue, and the maintenance of a healthy immune system." - Harvard School of Public Health.

I noticed an increase in energy on my second bottle of Centrapeak that enabled me to focus, reduce stress hormone (cortisol), and do more intense workouts.

Supplement Facts:

  • Ashwagandha : 200 mg
  • Rhodiola Rosea : 100 mg
  • Phosphatidylserine : 100 mg
  • L-tyrosine : 150 mg
Pros
  • Non-GMO, soy-free, gluten-free, preservative-free, and free of any other harmful or unnatural brain chemicals
  • GMP-certified and manufactured in an FDA-approved facility
  • Has a fully transparent and incredibly effective formula
Cons
  • It is a bit pricey

7 - Nootropics Depot Cognizin

CTA of Nootropics Depot Cognizin
Ingredients
4.8
Effectiveness
4.8
Price
4.8
Overall Score 4.8
4.8

Nootropic Depot Cognizin's essential nutrients assist the brain in creating electrical impulses, maintain healthy brain cells, and safeguard neurons from damage caused by free radicals.

Cognizin Citicoline maintains adequate levels of acetylcholine, a substance that aids brain function [4].

Cognizin promotes proper mitochondrial activity, which is necessary for the massive amounts of energy required for strenuous exercise performance and sports [5].

It also enhances cell membrane production and maintenance.

In my experience, this nootropic reduced my brain fog, increased concentration and made it easy to workout in the morning.

Supplement Facts:

  • Citicoline : 500 mg
Pros
  • It contains natural ingredients that are scientifically formulated
  • Enhances attention, concentration, and motivation toward your workout
  • It can be stacked with other nootropics
Cons
  • It is considered expensive

8 - Double Wood Supplements Uridine

CTA of Double Wood Supplements Uridine
Ingredients
4.8
Effectiveness
4.8
Price
4.6
Overall Score 4.7
4.7

For an effective and successful workout to grow your muscles, your brain will need to be at its peak for the focus and concentration required.

Double Wood Supplements Uridine is a key building block used in synthesizing RNA, thus reducing toxic brain cells [6].

Uridine also promotes the synthesis of brain phosphatidylcholine helps to support cholinergic function, and may help promote synaptic connections in the brain.

After utilizing Uridine for four days, my mental alertness was elevated, and I had better thought formulations.

Supplement Facts:

  • Uridine : 300 mg
Pros
  • Made from natural ingredients, making it safe to consume
  • Devoid of GMOs, gluten, additives, soy, and caffeine
  • Raises choline levels in the brain, which improves cognitive performance
Cons
  • May cause severe headaches

9 - Focusaid

CTA of Focusaid
Ingredients
4.7
Effectiveness
4.8
Price
4.7
Overall Score 4.7
4.7

Focusaid contains substances that may promote brain health and athletic performance during strenuous activity.

The substance provides users with the mental and physical vigor required for increased productivity while avoiding the anxiety and exhaustion caused by coffee.

Focusaid contains ginseng, which may aid with fatigue. It keeps you calm and focused throughout strenuous physical exercise like HIIT gym workouts [7].

I love that Focusaid enhanced my focus and energy without crashes or jitters.

Supplement Facts:

  • Niacin : 16 mg
  • Biotin : 120 mcg
  • Pantothenic Acid : 5 mg
Pros
  • It is effective to reduce stress hormones
  • Its components have been third-party tested
  • It has no artificial sugars
Cons
  • Not suitable for caffeine-intolerant people and has proprietary blends

10 - Host Defense Lion's Mane

CTA of Host Defense Lion's Mane
Ingredients
4.7
Effectiveness
4.7
Price
4.6
Overall Score 4.7
4.7

Host Defense Lion's Mane clears your mind and improves your memory and immunological health.

Among this nootropic benefits, you can find that it promotes mental clarity, attention, and memory while supporting the brain and neurological systems. Lion’s mane enhances the motivation and energy required to complete a strenuous activity.

This nootropic can be taken with or without meals.

However, I like taking it on an empty stomach first thing in the morning to optimize its absorption and get me started on my daily routines.

Supplement Facts:

  • Lion's Mane Mushroom : 550 g
Pros
  • Vegan and vegetarian-friendly supplement
  • It contains Lion's Mane mushroom mycelium that improves memory and immune health
  • It promotes a balanced mood
Cons
  • Causes side effects such as abdominal discomfort and skin rash

Buyer's Guide

A person holding a credit card in front of a computer

It is important to focus on a few key areas that distinguish the products to find the best nootropic.

If you feel the need to conduct more research, the following considerations might assist you in selecting the best one for you.

1. Nootropic Safety

The FDA does not authorize certain nootropics, so it is critical to inspect the item for safety. Check that the formula has no GMOs, artificial chemicals, preservatives, or common allergies.

It's also important to check website reviews first to learn about other people's positive and negative experiences.

When taking a product for the first time, begin with the lowest feasible dosage and watch how it impacts your body.

2. Nootropic Ingredients

Several compounds have been shown to have an effect on brain cells as well as cognitive ability.

As per our study and testing findings, the following compounds appear to provide the best effect:

  • Lion's Mane
  • Ashwagandha
  • Citicoline
  • L-theanine
  • L-tyrosine
  • Bacopa Monnieri

If you can find one or two nootropics to match them, you should notice a significant increase in your mental health.

Related Articles:

3. Nootropic Price

A high cost does not always imply great quality.

You may not want to purchase the cheapest nootropic online either, because the components may be inefficient or the potency is insufficient to generate brain function benefits.

The finest nootropic pills on our list are standard or slightly above average, with well-researched, high-quality brain-boosting components.

Who Should Take Nootropics For Bodybuilding?

You should take nootropics for bodybuilding to boost your cognitive performance, mental clarity, focus, and energy to aid your workout and build muscle mass.

These nootropics can directly influence neurological systems, making it much simpler to focus on everyday duties and workouts.

Who Shouldn't Take Nootropics for Bodybuilding?

You shouldn’t take nootropics for bodybuilding if you are pregnant, nursing, or under 18.

People suffering from high or low blood pressure or other medical condition should reconsider using these nootropics.

FAQs

Do Nootropics Help Build Muscle?

Yes, nootropics can help build muscles as it supercharges your body by powering up your brain for a particular workout and enables you to take your gains to the next level.

What Is Nootropic Bodybuilding?

Nootropic bodybuilding is a natural nutritional supplement designed to strengthen your brain and provide mental power for hard workouts.

Is Creatine a Good Nootropic?

Yes, Creatine is a good nootropic, as oral administration may improve healthy individuals' reasoning and short-term memory.

Our #1 Nootropic for Bodybuilding

Our testing team concluded that Mind Lab Pro is the best nootropic to counteract brain fog and enhance mood toward muscle building.

Mind Lab Pro offers some of the top components for increasing bodybuilding strength, motivation, and overall gains.

If you're experiencing brain fog as a result of whatever life throws at you, Mind Lab Pro will help you get back on track.

The high-quality ingredients aid in improving cognitive function, short and long-term memory, attention, and energy required for intense workouts.

Its constituent, vitamin B complex, supports red blood cell production and boosts energy levels.

Our #1 Recommendation

Mind Lab Pro

Mind Lab Pro
Ingredients
4.9
Effectiveness
5.0
Price
4.8
Overall Score 4.9
4.9
Pros
  • It has a natural nootropic formulation
  • It enhances cognitive function
  • It has a clinical research support
  • It does not include caffeine
  • Get the BEST PRICE until the end of September
Cons
  • Quite expensive
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