Nootropic Supplements and Exercise: Patterns and Perceptions of Cognitive Enhancer Use in Physically Active...

Area of Science:

• Sports Nutrition
• Cognitive Science
• Dietary Supplements

Background:

• Nootropics are compounds marketed to enhance cognitive function.
• Dietary supplement use is widespread among American adults and active individuals.
• Understanding nootropic usage patterns in this demographic is important.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and patterns of nootropic use in physically active individuals.
• To identify commonly used nootropics, reasons for use, and perceived effects.
• To explore associations between nootropic use and exercise characteristics.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was administered to assess nootropic consumption.
• Data collected included preferred nootropics, dosage, frequency, and reasons for use.
• Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, were employed to identify significant associations.

Main Results:

• 152 physically active individuals completed the survey.
• Caffeine, creatine, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), L-theanine, nicotine, and ashwagandha were the most frequently reported nootropics.
• Increased energy and motivation were the primary reported reasons for use.
• Weight training participants showed a higher likelihood of using amino acids and peptides.
• More frequent nootropic users reported greater perceived effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Nootropic consumption is common in physically active populations.
• Reasons for use extend beyond cognitive enhancement, including energy and motivation.
• Specific exercise modalities may influence nootropic choices.
• Perceived effectiveness is linked to usage frequency.