Supplements
Just writing about my experiences with various supplements and nootropics. This page will be updated periodically as I try more.
Standard Disclaimer
I don’t yet have a more objective process for evaluating these supplements besides “I think it did this”. I experience confirmation bias and other fallacies that make it difficult for me to separate any given supplement from other things happening in my life, such as changes in diet, exercise, sleeping habits, etc. This disclaimer applies to every substance on this page.
L-theanine
My dose: 200mg oral daily for 3 months, with 1-2 month long
breaks in between
L-theanine is a non-essential amino acid,
commonly known as one of the healthful/flavorful compounds in green tea.
My perception is that L-theanine enables me to better combat negative emotions and attenuates my overall level of stress and inflammation for about 6 hours after I take it. I’ve noticed especially that on days where I drink green tea and additionally take L-theanine, stimming and slight pain (pinching muscle, vibrating my legs, finger wagging, etc) really help me focus while on other days these techniques are less effective.
Lion’s Mane
My dose: 500mg oral daily for 2 months, with 2 month long breaks
in between
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a
fungus that is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It’s known as
a BDNF (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and is supposed to promote
enhanced memory and learning rate. In online communities such as the r/nootropics subreddit,
it also has a fair number of detractors who say it can cause hair loss,
anhedonia, and sexual dysfunction.
For me, lion’s mane appeared to function similarly to zoloft (an antidepressant), but without the emotional blunting and feeling of unease I experienced on zoloft. It seemed to improve my motivation and overall mood without making me not care about things very much. I was still able to experience chills in response to music while on it, unlike zoloft, and my pain sensitivity/tolerance were unchanged.
Currently evaluating/writing about
Bacopa monnieri
D-Aspartic acid