The Top Ingredients for Brain Health (With Science-Backed Facts and Peptide Fuel)

 

 

In a world that is consistently fast and over-connected, peak performance cognitively is not a luxury anymore, it's a necessity. Because of this, we all experience brain fog, mental fatigue, and increasingly elusive focus. We're all trying to juggle a demanding job, family, personal goals and interests while battling information overload and frustrating digital distractions. It's no surprise our brains are tired.

 

One in nine Americans 65 or older has Alzheimer's Disease according to the CDC. Cognitive issues and challenges aren't the problem with only the ageing population either. Younger people are reporting increased brain fog and fatigue issues - often with a clear link to modern existence and lifestyle elements related to:

 

• Nutritional Deficiencies: We often don't provide the precise micronutrients our brains are asking for in our diets.
  
  

• Continual Stress: Having elevated cortisol levels inhibits memory and gradually destroys brain cells.
  
  

• Deteriorating Sleep: Our nightly detoxification and memory consolidation processes aren't happening as our brains are seldom clocked in for the full work day.
  
  

• Environmental Toxins: You are not immune from the potential influence of many everyday chemicals which can cause inflammation and oxidative stress.
  
  

As a typical response, we grabbed any and all supplements—multivitamins, nootropics—just more randomness. But what if there was a better way to nourish our brains?

 

Enter science based, peptide-powered supplementation. At Jaan, we believe the future of cognitive wellness are supplements, which leverage the mechanisms of our body's own systems to enhance output at the cellular level. By combining clinically studied vitamins, adaptogens, and amino acids with killer peptide technology, we aim to provide an unparalleled experience of mental clarity and resilience.

 

Ready to find out how targeted, peptide-powered supplementation can enhance your brain's daily performance and long-term health? Find out how Jaan's targeted formulas support brain cognitive function at the cellular level.

 

 

What Actually Matters for Cognitive Supplementation

 

 

Go down t aisle of any health store, and you'll see bottles with promises to "boost your brain." Most focus on a singular metric, dosage. The sad truth is that absorption is more important than dosage, at least when it comes to supplements. Your body can only use absorption. Many of our standard supplements pass through our systems and have little to no impact.

 

Operationally effective cognitive assistance is predicated on 3 core principles:

 

1. Bioavailability: The ingredients need to be bio-regenerable; the body needs to recognize it and integrate it.
   
   

2. Synergy: The nutrients need to be compatible and mutually reinforcing. Valued constituents include Amino Acids, Vitamins, Adaptogens, Peptides; with these ingredients, you are developing a value added ecosystem of support.
   
   

3. Delivery: The body needs the nutrients and compounds to arrive at their intended destination - in this case - the Brain.
   
   

This is what makes peptides so special and effective. Short-chained peptides are short chains of amino acids acting as precise signaling molecules. Peptides are really small molecules that operate like local keys unlocking cellular functions. The short-chain peptides we use to form core ingredients IPH AEN and IPH AVN develop the new frontier of cognitive wellness, delivering nutrients to the complex nervous-system architecture.

 

 

Top Peptide-Based Ingredients for Cognitive Health (included in Each of The Jaan Creations for Cognitive Health)

 

 

Let's dig into and discuss the science-based ingredients we rely on to build all of our cognitive health supplements on. These are not arbitrary nutrients, these are synergistically valued ingredients with known chemistry delivered in bioavailable forms with performance concerns improved and modified with peptide technology.

 

SECTION A: B Vitamins – The Builders of Brain Chemistry

 

While their contributions to neurological health are huge, B vitamins don't get much credit. They are critical co-factors in thousands of metabolic pathways in the body, including for the production of energy, DNA repair, and the synthesis of neurotransmitters that affect mood, focus, and memory. Our Jaan B-Vitamin Complex and Total Multivitamin provide the complete range of these essential nutrients in their most active forms.

 

1. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

 

• Brain Benefit: Thiamine plays a critical role in turning glucose into the energy critical brain cells need for life. It also plays a vital role in the speed and integrity of nerve signals related to memory performance.
  
  

• The Science: Studies found on PubMed show that early cognitive decline and confusion can be linked to even mild B1 deficiencies.
  
  

2. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

 

• Brain Benefit: Riboflavin is an energy super star. Not only does it boost neuronal energy production, but it also contributes to the recycling of other important B-vitamins, like folate, allowing for optimal functioning of the whole cognitive support system.
  
  

• The Science: According to the National Institutes of Health, riboflavin is essential to mitochondrial function, the tiny engines that produce energy in your body.
  
  

3. Niacin (Vitamin B3)

 

• Brain Benefit: Healthy blood flow is critical for healthy brain function. Niacin promotes vasodilation, i.e. it allows the blood vessels to relax and open up to bring the brain tissue oxygen & nutrients in an uninterrupted fashion.
  
  

• The Science: A review from Harvard Health shows that niacin preserves cognitive function in aging populations by improving blood circulation.
  
  

4. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

 

• Brain Benefit: If your brain has a chemical switchboard, vitamin B6 is what drives it. It is a direct co-factor in the formation of three primary neurotransmitters- serotonin (for mood), dopamine (for focus and motivation), and GABA (for calm).
  
  

• The Science: The National Institutes of Health has stated that low levels of vitamin B6 are directly correlated with impairments in mood, mental fogginess, and detriments to mental function.
  
  

5. Folate (as Methylfolate)

 

• Brain Benefit: Folate is essential for DNA repair and synthesis, keeping our neural blueprint intact. Folate is also a key component of the methylation cycle that supports modulation of neurotransmitters, while lowering homocysteine (an amino acid associated with vascular damage in the brain).
  
  

• The Science: We utilize the methylated version of folate, Methylfolate, because it is a superior, "body-ready" version that circumvents typical genetic mutations that inhibit folate from converting to its propriety state, meaning it has maximum brain bioavailability.
  
  

6. Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin)

 

• Brain Benefit: One of the main neuroprotectors is vitamin B12. It is required to maintain a healthy myelin sheath, which is the insulative/ protective, fatty layer around nerves that allows our brain to send signals quickly and efficiently.
  
  

• The Science: In a 2018 study by Janelidze et al., the methylated form of B12, Methylcobalamin, was concluded to be absorbed and taken up by the central nervous system much more effectively than the more common and cheaper formulations, cyanocobalamin.
  
  
  

SECTION B: Brain-Targeted Amino Acids – Basic Building Blocks of Thought

 

Amino acids are not only for muscle, but are essential basic building blocks of neurotransmitters and directly influence how we think, feel, and perform. The Jaan Brain Boost formula is based on the use of these neuroactive compounds.

 

7. L-Glycine

 

• Brain Benefit: Glycine is a multi-tasking amino acid since it improves memory retention, increases cognitive processing speed and has been shown to decrease mental fatigue. It is also a calming neurotransmitter, which will help support much needed synergistic deep restorative sleep to support brain retention function and also "clean out" the metabolic waste from the brain.
  
  

• The Science: Studies have shown that glycine supplementation before sleep can greatly improve sleep quality which can support brain resilience while also decreasing daytime sleepiness.
  
  

8. L-Leucine & L-Lysine

 

• Brain Benefit: These essential amino acids not only build protein, but also help signal important brain pathways like mTOR, which controls cell growth and repair. They also help protect neurons from damage during stress.
  
  

• The Science: Research in journals including Frontiers in Neuroscience suggests that a balance of branch-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and other essential aminos supports mental sharpness and cognitive performance over extended periods of time and during demanding tasks.
  
  

9. Beta-Alanine

 

• Brain Benefit: Beta-Alanine is known for how it enhances physical performance, but it can also be a very powerful ingredient for cognitive endurance as it works in the body to increase levels of carnosine. Carnosine works as a buffer when acid increases in not just muscles but also as a neuroprotectant that reduces cognitive fatigue in periods of intense focus.
  
  

• The Science: Studies in military and academic exam circumstances have demonstrated that it supports mental performance levels necessary in high-pressure situations.
  
  
  

SECTION C: Smart Adaptogens - For a Resilient, Stress-Proof Brain

 

Adaptogens are a group of botanicals that help your body cope with and become more resilient to physical, chemical and biological stress. By modulating the stress hormone cortisol, they can protect the brain from its adverse effects and stabilize energy and enhance mood.

 

10. Ashwagandha (20:1 Extract)

 

• Brain Benefit: Ashwagandha is likely the most famous adaptogen for its ability to lower cortisol, and thus enhancing working memory, executive function, and mood.
  
  

• The Science: A landmark study published in 2012 by Chandrasekhar et al. showed that study participants given Ashwagandha experienced significant improvements in memory and speed of information processing compared to a placebo group.
  
  

• Source: Found in Jaan Metabolic Adaptogen and Jaan Male Vitality.
  
  

11. Rhodiola Rosea (20:1 Extract)

 

• Brain Benefit: If you are experiencing burnout or mental exhaustion, Rhodiola is your friend. Rhodiola is well known for its efficacious ability to boost mental performance especially when it comes to fatigue and stress related situations.
  
  

• The Science: As reported in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2009, a group of elderly adults demonstrated significant cognitive improvement via use of Shilajit with cognitive reserve using the MOCA cognitive test (score increased by 10%) after using it for six months.
  
  

• Source: Found in Jaan's Metabolic Adaptogen.
  
  

14. Maca Root Extract

 

• Brain Benefit: Maca is a natural adaptogen that can improve changes in mental resistance or stamina among athletes as well as cognitive function. It also appears to support the gut/brain axis in ways that improve perennial cognition for the brain); it applies broadly to other cognitive experiments as well.
  
  

• The Science: A recent meta-analysis published in the journal BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies in November 2020 cites 15 studies showing positive effects of Maca on cognitive function. This review also suggests that improvements in cognition can be observed in just weeks of use!
  
  

• Source: Found in Jaan's Male Vitality.
  
  

15. Magnesium

 

• Brain Benefit: Magnesium is a mineral that is critical for brain energy as well as for mood and general cognition. Magnesium also supports the gut/brain axis, improves sleep, and increases energy as a critical cofactor for ATP production.
  
  

• The Science: A a March 2021 review (in the journal Nutrients) of magnesium's effects on mood, cognition, sleep, gut-changes etc. in humans and animals concluded: "Magnesium supplementation had a positive impact on cognitive function and sleep in humans. Of the research on animals, magnesium supplementation had a positive impact on anxiety and/or memory skills."
  
  

• Source: Found in Jaan's Male Vitality.
  
  
  
  

SECTION E: Dietary Remediation and Optimizers

 

Cognitive health also benefits from a complimentary diet! Medically approved diets and diets that fit a buddy up with one's culture are equally important for cognitive health.

 

16. Food

 

• Brain Benefit: collectively olive oil (helpful, gut/brain connection), fermented foods (pre- and pro-biotic), and a minimum of 20g of daily dietary fiber (2g=1 serving) are critical to gut/brain/health.
  
  

• The Science: For the Mediterranean diet contents and benefits, see the reference in the Thomas' Paper below. Foods which maximize the gut/brain connection (olive oil, pre-biotic fiber, probiotic) in octogenarians or others can help expand cognitive possible changes by including cognition-focused ingredients or foods
  
  

• Source: Found in Jaan's Metabolic Adaptogen, male vitality and Brain Health, and Jaan's process by offering it up to all communities.
  
  

14. Choline

 

• Brain Benefit: Choline is an important nutrient which creates acetylcholine, which is a type of neurotransmitter that is associated with learning, memory, and focus.
  
  

• The Science: Research reviewed by Oregon State University's Linus Pauling Institute consistently supports the use of choline supplementation and shows beneficial memory supporting benefits.
  
  

• Source: Jaan B-Vitamin Complex
  
  

15. Inositol & PABA

 

• Brain Benefit: Inositol is a form of carbocyclic sugar and it is involved in cell signaling, it can also be used to reduce anxiety. PABA (Para-Aminobenzoic Acid) is part of the B-complex family and some early research into PABA was reviewing its potential neuroprotective ability. Research shows PABA may provide benefits for myelin sheath integrity.
  
  

• Source: Jaan B-Vitamin Complex
  
  
  
  

SECTION E: Peptides - The Key to Superiority in Nutrition and Bioavailability

 

This is what makes Jaan different. While the ingredients above are magical in their own right, with our peptide technology they transform from being beneficial into something extraordinary.

 

16. IPH AVN Peptides

• Purpose: This short-chain peptide was created to support vascular function. Think of it as your optimized delivery system. It provides support for vascular integrity and health.
  
  

• Relevance to Brain Health: If your brain cannot receive it, you are not utilizing it. It only makes sense that the healthier the circulation, the better it will be to deliver the powerful B-vitamins, amino acids, adaptogens, and supplements in our formulas that are delivered to your brain cells. It is all about delivery.
  
  

• Source: Jaan Brain Boost, B-Vitamin Complex, and Total Multivitamin.
  
  

17. IPH AEN Peptides

 

• Purpose: This peptide targets everything related to regeneration and maintenance of function for nerve cells, especially throughout the peripheral nervous system.
  

• Relevance to Brain Health: Your brain is the control center for a massive neural network. By furthering the integrity of those communications lines and/or push enhancing nerve repair, the IPH AEN peptide ensures that your entire nervous system is firing on all cylinders. In other words, it assists in better bio-communication with your mind and body and is simply better neurological resilience!
  
  
  
  

Ingredient Synergy: Why Jaan's Formulas Are Better than Your Average Brain Supplement

 

Most people with the best of intentions decide to build their own "nootropic stack" in order to get the products they want based on the latest research by purchasing individual ingredients and hoping for the best. This is problematic for several reasons, especially because it ignores synergy entirely along with the ideas of good bio-availability and that's why people end up disappointed.

 

You'll have a lot of parts, but you won't have a high-performance engine.

 

Jaan ' designs are complete, intentional ecosystems for your brain. We don't come at you with just one part of the engine. We want to give you the whole ecosystem all together, synergistically, thoughtfully, and fully comprehensive covering all aspects:

 

• Stress & Cortisol control with smart adaptogens
  
  

• Neurotransmitter fuel with methylated B-vitamins
  
  

• Neural building blocks with neuroactive amino acids
  
  

• Better delivery with vascular peptides for better absorption

 

It is this peptide powered, multi-system design that makes our customers feel a true difference, not only in focus, but total vitality and well being. Assess your needs in totality by taking the Jaan Quiz and get your personalized support plan.

 

 

Creating A Daily Protocol For Cognitive Vitality

 

 

It's easy to create a routine. Below is a suggested protocol that supports the brain throughout the day using our targeted formulas.

 

• AM (with breakfast) - Use the daily foundational nutrients in a Jaan Total Multivitamin or the quality B-Vitamin Complex to initiate the day with the nutrients your brain uses to generate energy and be prepared for your cognitive work of the day.
  
  

• Midday (when it's time to focus): Jaan Brain Boost is an ideal option to take before a stressful work session or to boost your energy in the afternoons. The combination of amino acids and peptides gives you immediate support for mental clarity and endurance.
  
  

• Evening (to relax and repair): When it is time to wind down for the evening, you can set up your brain to transition into a restorative state with Jaan Metabolic Adaptogen or a dose of Pure Shilajit - which is helpful to reduce the cortisol levels from the stressors you encountered during the day, as well as supports your brain with its reparations and detoxification overnight.

 

To make things simple, utilize Jaan Vitality Bundle which combines our flagship products to build a complete ecosystem of brain health and overall vitality.

 

 

Conclusion: Smarter Brain Health Begins with Smarter Ingredients

 

 

Your brain is your body's greatest asset and protecting and nourishing it is not rocket science. Cognitive enhancement should be a holistic endeavour that considers absorption, synergy and cellular health.

 

At Jaan, we have done the work for you. Our formulas are:

 

• Personalized: Get a personalized plan in consideration of your unique goals through our AI-enabled quiz.
  
  
  

• Science-Driven: only use ingredients with a proven efficacy in clinical science.
  
  

• Absorption-First: Our peptide technology delivers maximum capability in every capsule.
  
  

• Transparent & Quality: All products are manufactured in the USA and third-party tested for purity and potency.

 

Stop accepting subpar supplements--it's time to use smarter ingredients for smarter brain health.

See all products and bundles to boost cognitive skills at Jaan

 

 

FAQs

 

 

1. What is the best natural source of fuel for the brain?

 

Answer:
The brain’s primary and most efficient fuel source is glucose, typically derived from healthy carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. However, for long-term brain health and sharper focus, combining glucose with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B vitamins provides superior cognitive support.

 

---

2. What is the best peptide for brain function and cognitive support?

 

Answer:
Cerebrolysin and Dihexa are among the most researched peptides for brain function. However, nootropic peptides like Semax and Selank are gaining attention for improving focus, memory, and neuroprotection. These peptides modulate neurotransmitters and support brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), promoting cognitive resilience.

 

---

3. What is the #1 brain supplement recommended for memory and focus?

 

Answer:
Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) consistently top the list of brain supplements due to their role in maintaining brain cell structure, reducing inflammation, and supporting memory. Other top contenders include Lion’s Mane mushroom, citicoline, and bacopa monnieri, all backed by human studies.

 

---

4. Which brain-boosting fuel supports students during exams and studying?

 

Answer:
Students benefit most from a combination of complex carbs, proteins, and brain-enhancing nutrients. Foods like blueberries, walnuts, eggs, dark chocolate, and leafy greens are ideal. These support mental energy, concentration, and memory consolidation, especially when paired with hydration and proper sleep.

 

---

5. What are the top 5 scientifically proven brain foods for memory?

 

Answer:
The top 5 brain foods include:

1. Fatty fish (rich in DHA)

2. Blueberries (high in antioxidants)

3. Turmeric (curcumin boosts BDNF)

4. Broccoli (loaded with vitamin K)

5. Pumpkin seeds (rich in magnesium and zinc)
   These foods protect the brain from oxidative stress and improve mental performance over time.
   
   

---

6. What are the 10 best brain foods for mental clarity and nerve support?

 

Answer:
Ten top foods for brain clarity and nerve health include:

1. Fatty fish

2. Blueberries

3. Turmeric

4. Eggs

5. Walnuts

6. Pumpkin seeds

7. Broccoli

8. Oranges

9. Green tea

10. Dark chocolate
    Each provides essential nutrients like choline, flavonoids, polyphenols, and antioxidants that support memory, mood, and cognition.
    
    
    

---

7. What are 3 essential things the brain needs for optimal performance?

 

Answer:
For peak function, the brain needs:

1. Oxygen – for energy production

2. Glucose – its main fuel source

3. Nutrients – especially omega-3s, B vitamins, and antioxidants
   In addition to nutrients, adequate sleep and regular exercise are critical to maintaining brain health and neuroplasticity.