I Tried Thesis Nootropics for 30 days. Is it worth it? (2023)

L-Phenylalanine (500mg)
Dynamine® (100mg)
Methylcobalamin (1000mcg)
Forskolin (250mg)
Artichoke Extract (450mg)
Caffeine (100mg)
L-Theanine (200mg)
Citicoline (300mg)
Zynamite® (300mg)
TeaCrine® (100mg)
NAC (500mg)
Sabroxy® (100mg)
AlphaGrain (500mg)
Lion’s Mane
Epicatechin
7,8 DHF

I started with Thesis Energy because, well – Energy. The first thing I noticed was that it contained caffeine.

I recognized some of these. Caffeine obviously. Which, honestly was a disappointment to see. Not because I think caffeine is bad, but I think it would be hard to tell what positive effects could be attributed to caffeine, which is known to increase alertness, focus, and energy.

So, what are the other ingredients and how do they effect the brain chemistry? I wanted to dig a little closer.

List of Ingredients Used in Thesis

L-Phenylalanine

L-Phenylaline is an amino acid that can’t be naturally produced by the human body. It’s purpose is to regulate mood by being a precursor to dopamine. You can find it in foods like eggs, milk, and cheese as well as diet soda.

Dynamine

Dynamine is a patented version of methylliberine, which is naturally found in some coffee. Methylliberine is commonly used in dietary supplements and energy products as a natural alternative to caffeine. It provides a quick and noticeable boost in energy without the jitters or crash commonly associated with caffeine consumption.

Methylcobalamin

Methylcobalamin is basically vitamin B-12. Most of us are aware of B-12, and it’s use in energy drinks to promote energy.

Forskolin

Foreskin?! Wait, no – Forskolin. Forskolin is a natural compound derived from the root of the Indian coleus plant (Coleus forskohlii). It has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for various purposes. I know it’s supposed to support weight loss and metabolism, but I’m not sure what it’s supposed to do for energy levels.

Artichoke Extract

Artichoke extract is derived from the leaves of the artichoke plant and is often used as a natural supplement. It is believed to support digestive health and liver function, as well as promote healthy cholesterol levels. Artichoke extract can be found in capsule or tablet form and is not typically found in specific foods or drinks.

L-Theanine

L-Theanine is an amino acid found primarily in tea leaves, particularly green tea. It is known for its calming and relaxing effects and is often used to promote stress reduction and improve focus and mental clarity. L-Theanine can be found naturally in tea, especially green tea, but it is also available in supplement form.

Citicoline

Citicoline, also known as CDP-choline, is a compound that naturally occurs in the body and can be found in certain foods like eggs and organ meats. It is involved in brain health and function, and it is believed to enhance memory, focus, and cognitive performance. Citicoline is available as a dietary supplement to support brain health.

Zynamite®

Zynamite® is a patented natural ingredient derived from Mangifera indica, commonly known as the mango tree. It is used as a natural energy booster and cognitive enhancer. Zynamite® is often found in pre-workout supplements and can help increase endurance and improve mental focus during physical activities.

TeaCrine®

TeaCrine® is a compound extracted from Camellia assamica, the same plant used to produce black tea. It functions as a stimulant and energy enhancer, similar to caffeine but with a more sustained effect. TeaCrine® is often found in energy drinks, dietary supplements, and pre-workout formulas.

NAC

NAC, short for N-acetylcysteine, is a form of the amino acid cysteine. It acts as a powerful antioxidant and is commonly used to support liver health and promote respiratory health. NAC can be found in certain foods such as eggs, garlic, and yogurt, but it is also available as a dietary supplement.

Sabroxy®

Sabroxy® is a patented extract derived from the hops plant (Humulus lupulus). It is often used as a natural anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. Sabroxy® is found in some dietary supplements designed to alleviate pain and discomfort, but it is not typically present in specific foods or drinks.

Lion’s Mane

Lion’s Mane is a type of medicinal mushroom scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus. It is highly regarded for its potential health benefits and has been used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for centuries. It’s popular in many mushroom based nootropics for its purported benefits on memory and focus.

AlphaGrain (Alpha-GPC)

Alpha-GPC, also known as L-alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, is a substance that naturally occurs in the body when choline is converted. It can also be created synthetically and is commonly found in dietary supplements.

Alpha-GPC appears to raise the levels of a brain chemical called acetylcholine, which plays a crucial role in memory and learning.

Epicatechin

Epicatechin is a flavonoid compound that belongs to the class of plant compounds called catechins. It is found in a variety of foods, particularly in plant-based sources such as fruits, vegetables, cocoa, and tea.

Epicatechin is known for its potential health benefits due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been studied for its positive effects on cardiovascular health, insulin sensitivity, and exercise performance.

7,8 DHF

7,8-Dihydroxyflavone (7,8 DHF) is a small molecule that belongs to the flavonoid family. It is a naturally occurring compound found in certain plants, such as Tridax procumbens, and it can also be synthesized in the laboratory.

7,8 DHF has gained attention for its potential neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. It acts as a potent agonist (activator) of the TrkB receptor, which is a receptor for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a protein that plays a crucial role in promoting the survival, growth, and maintenance of neurons in the brain.

Zembrin

Zembrin is a patented extract derived from the South African plant Sceletium tortuosum, commonly known as “Kanna.” The plant has a history of use among indigenous people for its calming effects.

 Zembrin is believed to help enhance mood and provide relief from daily life stresses. Some studies suggest that Zembrin might promote cognitive flexibility and executive function. There is also evidence to suggest Zembrin may help with anxiety due to its serotonin reuptake inhibitor properties.

Synapsa

Synapsa is a patented, standardized extract of Bacopa monnieri, a nootropic herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. Bacopa monnieri is often used to enhance cognitive function and memory. Synapsa is also promoted for its potential to support memory and cognitive performance.

KSM-66 Ashwagandha

KSM-66 is a patented, full-spectrum extract derived from the Ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera). Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to strengthen the immune system, reduce stress, and increase vitality.

Ashwagandha has been studied for its ability to reduce cortisol levels and mitigate the effects of stress and some studies suggest it can boost endurance, strength, and muscle recovery.

“Ashwagandha extracts have been shown to increase athletic performance in both the general healthy adult population and professional/elite athletes. VO₂ max, a measure of cardiovascular fitness, has been shown to increase by 6−14% over study periods of 4−12 weeks. Ashwagandha extracts have also been found to increase muscle mass and strength, and improve muscle recovery.”

Additionally, KSM-66 may offer cognitive benefits, potentially improving memory and brain function.

Most of these can be found in a pre-workout.

Energy drinks, pre-workouts, tea, and coffee can contain various combinations of caffeine, L-Theanine, Citicoline, Zynamite, TeaCrine, NAC, or Dynamine.

Because of this, I can’t make sense of the value here. I’d just as soon stick with natural green tea, coffee, or an organic pre-workout to have the energy effects of Thesis.

Is Thesis Safe? What are the negative effects?

Is Thesis a secure choice? The majority of ingredients found in Thesis’ nootropic products have shown low side-effect profiles in scientific studies. Therefore, many of Thesis’ concoctions are likely safe for the general population. However, with over 30 ingredients listed by Thesis, individual reactions may vary. It’s paramount to consult your healthcare professional before integrating Thesis into your routine.

When you begin using Thesis nootropics, keep an eye out for potential side effects like:

• Acidic sensation or discomfort
• Migraines or minor headaches
• Mental disarray
• Feeling light-headed
• Diminished hunger
• Gastrointestinal disturbances

If persistent issues like headaches or stomach discomfort occur, Thesis advises discontinuing their product.

Alternatives to Thesis

I think I’ll stick to other options at a smaller ticket-price.

• You can order this Lion’s Mane supplement on Amazon. I have been putting this directly in my coffee. It doesn’t taste horrible, and it keeps me alert and focused longer.
• If you’re looking for the natural cognitive effects of other mushrooms, I’ve enjoyed taking Genius Mushrooms. They’ve got great reviews, and you take just 1-2 capsules a day.
• Try an organic pre-workout instead of your morning coffee.
• Get better sleep by trying some of these methods.
• Mushroom Coffee has been really good for me.