- Well researched ingredients
- Stimulant-free
- Properly dosed
- Stimulant-free
- 11 Research-backed ingredients
- Great for business professionals
Written by Steve Theunissen | ISSA: CPT & Fitness Nutrition
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
FACT CHECKED
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The demand for nootropics, or cognitive-enhancing supplements, has really taken off in recent years. Nootropics, a word coined by Dr. Corneliu E. Giurgea, refers to a broad spectrum of substances intended to enhance cognitive abilities, including memory, learning, focus, mental clarity, and creativity. It is also claimed that some nootropics may delay age-related cognitive decline.
A growing body of research confirms the benefits of a range of nootropic ingredients in terms of boosting mental performance and their ability to treat memory disorders, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases (1).
In this article, we put two of the most popular nootropics on the market, NooCube and Mind Lab Pro, in a head-to-head comparison. Join us as we analyze their formulations, evaluate their potency, and give our take on which is best for various target audiences.
What Is NooCube?
NooCube is a brain health supplement from the well-known Scottish health supplement company Wolfson Brands. This is a stimulant-free supplement that contains no caffeine.
NooCube combines vitamins like B1, B7, and B12 with herbal extracts such as Bacopa Monnieri, L-tyrosine, Cat's Claw, Oat Straw, L-theanine, Alpha GPC, Huperzia Serrata, and carotenoids like Lutemax 2020. Additionally, it incorporates compounds like resveratrol and pterostilbene, which may contribute to mental well-being. NooCube does a generally good job of aligning its dosages with scientific recommendations.
The benefits touted for NooCube encompass sharper focus, memory enhancement, improved attention span, stress reduction, reduced mental fatigue, and support for the eye-brain connection. Whether you're a student, athlete, or professional seeking to bolster productivity, NooCube's blend of research-backed ingredients may provide the cognitive edge you're after.
Pros
- Stimulant free
- Well dosed
- Research supported ingredients
Cons
- Expensive
NooCube works alongside your daily routine as a functional nootropic — allowing you to get more accomplished in a 24-hour period without feeling overwhelmed by...
What Is MindLab Pro?
MindLab Pro, a cognitive enhancer developed by Opti Nutra based in New Jersey, USA, stands out as a universal nootropic supplement designed to enhance various facets of cognitive function rather than targeting specific areas. This comprehensive approach aims to optimize mental performance across the following cognitive dimensions:
- Improved Multitasking: MindLab Pro is formulated to support your ability to juggle multiple tasks effectively, fostering enhanced productivity in demanding situations.
- Enhanced Work Productivity: The supplement is designed to reduce brain fog and boost overall brain productivity, enabling individuals to accomplish tasks more efficiently and effectively.
- Greater Brain Clarity: MindLab Pro seeks to enhance mental clarity, promoting sharper thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Stress Resilience: MindLab Pro aims to help individuals operate more effectively under stress by supporting cognitive function and mental resilience.
Here's a breakdown of the ingredients and dosages in MindLab Pro:
- Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom - 500 mg
- Citicoline - 250 mg
- N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine - 175 mg
- Bacopa Monnieri - 150 mg
- Phosphatidylserine (from Sunflower Lecithin) - 100 mg
- L-Theanine - 100 mg
- Maritime Pine Bark Extract - 75 mg
- Rhodiola Rosea - 50 mg
- Vitamin B6 - 2.5 mg
- Vitamin B9 - 100 mcg
- Vitamin B12 - 7.5 mcg
As with NooCube, this is a stimulant-free supplement.
Pros
- 11 research supported ingredients
- Stimulant free
- Preservative free
Cons
- Missing a couple of key ingredients, such as ashwagandha and ginkgo biloba
Mind Lab Pro set out to create the world's most advanced brain supplement. 100% safe, natural and stim-free. With no nasty side effects or long-term health risks...
Common Ingredients Of NooCube & MindLab Pro
You'd expect leading nootropics based on research findings to have common ingredients. That's the case here, with five common compounds in NooCube and MindLab Pro. Let's check them out:
1) Choline
NooCube includes choline, which plays a crucial role in brain function and the synthesis of neurotransmitters. MindLab Pro features citicoline, a source of choline that can enhance cognitive function by supporting acetylcholine levels in the brain. This neurotransmitter is essential for memory and learning.
Both forms of choline provide 250 mg of their respective form of choline.
2) Bacopa monnieri
Bacopa Monnieri is one of the critical ingredients in NooCube, known for its potential to enhance memory and cognitive function. MindLab Pro also incorporates Bacopa Monnieri, which has a traditional reputation for supporting cognitive health, particularly memory and information processing speed.
NooCube provides 250 mg of Bacopa monnieri in a 12:1 concentrated extract, enhancing potency beyond the 250 mg. This compares to the 150 mg in Mind Lab Pro.
3) L-Tyrosine
NooCube contains L-tyrosine, an amino acid used by the body to produce neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. It can enhance cognitive performance, especially in demanding situations. MindLab Pro includes N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine, a form of tyrosine that is more soluble and bioavailable. It provides similar cognitive benefits, including improved focus and stress reduction.
There is 250 mg of L-tyrosine in NooCube, compared with 175 mg of n-acetyl tyrosine in Mind Lab Pro. This is a more soluble and bioavailable form of tyrosine, so it balances out the lower dose.
4) L-Theanine
NooCube is enriched with L-theanine, an amino acid primarily found in tea leaves. L-theanine promotes relaxation, attention, and cognitive function. MindLab Pro also contains L-theanine, known for its calming and focus-enhancing properties. It can help reduce stress and anxiety while supporting mental clarity.
You get 100 mg of L-theanine in both products.
5) Vitamin B12
NooCube includes Vitamin B12, essential for proper brain function, mood regulation, and cognitive health. MindLab Pro features Vitamin B12 as well, contributing to cognitive well-being and overall brain function.
NooCube contains 2.5 mcg of Vitamin B12 compared with 7.5 mcg in Mind Lab Pro. Both doses are relatively low compared to clinical doses used to treat vitamin B deficiency-related cognitive deficits.
Different Ingredients Of Noocube & MindLab Pro
Let's now focus on the ingredients that make these supplements different from one another, starting with NooCube:
NooCube
The people behind NooCube are constantly analyzing their nootropic formula and are not afraid to tweak the ingredients in line with new research. Here are the unique ingredients at the time of writing (October 2023):
1) Vitamin B1
Thiamine, or vitamin B1, is essential to the neurological system and brain health. It aids in converting glucose into energy, which the brain and neurological system need to perform at their best. Neurological problems like fatigue, forgetfulness, and disorientation can result from thiamine deficiency. Thiamine supplementation may help with mood enhancement, anxiety and depression reduction, and cognitive function enhancement (2).
2) Biotin
Biotin, commonly known as Vitamin B7, is an essential B-complex vitamin for good general health. It contributes to how food is transformed into energy. Limited study has been done on the specific cognitive benefits of biotin (3). However, deficiencies can cause symptoms like weariness, sadness, and hallucinations. Maintaining a sufficient intake of biotin may aid in the prevention of these symptoms.
3) Cat's Claw Extract
Cat's Claw is a herb that may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. According to some studies, cat's claw extract may improve mental health, possibly reducing symptoms of anxiety and sadness (4)
4) Panax Ginseng
Panax Ginseng is an herbal root with adaptogenic properties. It is popular for relieving stress and increasing your energy levels (5). Ginseng has long been used to enhance mental clarity, reduce fatigue, and enhance cognitive function.
5) Marigold Flower Extract
Marigold flower extract delivers an excellent source of two key carotenoids: lutein and zeaxanthin. While generally associated with eye health, these two compounds may also support brain health (6). More study is needed to state with certainty that this ingredient benefits brain health.
6) Trans-Resveratrol
Trans-resveratrol is derived from fruits and vegetables, as well as red grapes. It has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities and is believed to boost memory and learning (7).
7) Pterostilbene
Pterostilbene comes from blueberries and possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities that may positively impact memory and learning(8).
MindLab Pro
Let's now turn to the unique ingredients that set MindLab Pro apart:
1) Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is vital in the production of neurotransmitters in brain cells. It is responsible for manufacturing dopamine, GABA, and serotonin, all essential for brain function and mood control (9).
2) Vitamin B9
Vitamin B9, known as folate, is needed to synthesize DNA and neurotransmitters and for cell division. It is essential for brain function and healthy cognitive development (3).
3) Lion's Mane Mushroom
Lion's mane mushroom is a medicinal mushroom that may improve cognition. It has ingredients called hericenones and erinacines, which have been studied for their potential to be neuroprotective and neuro-regenerative (10).
According to some research, Lion's mane mushroom extract helps the brain cells function, assists nerve growth and regeneration, and possibly improves memory, focus, and brain energy.
4) Phosphatidylserine
Phospholipidylserine is an important phospholipid that helps maintain nerve cells' functionality and structure. It may also improve cognitive function, memory, and attention, particularly in older people (11).
5) Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic plant that is known to relieve stress. It helps the body adapt to psychological and emotional stress (12).
6) Maritime Pine Bark Extract
Maritime Pine Bark Extract contains several bioactive substances, such as proanthocyanidins, potent antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and lessen the harm done to the body and brain by free radicals (13).
Who Should Take NooCube vs. Mind Lab Pro?
Mind Lab Pro targets a wide range of individuals looking to optimize their cognitive performance and overall brain health. Its target audience includes:
- Professionals and Students: Mind Lab Pro is ideal for professionals who need to process information quickly, filter out distractions, and maintain mental clarity during demanding tasks. It is also suitable for students seeking improved memory, focus, and the ability to recall details accurately for academic success.
- Individuals in High-Stress Environments: This supplement is designed for those who need to think clearly and react quickly, even when facing stress or fatigue. It helps people stay sharp and focused during challenging situations.
- People of All Ages: Mind Lab Pro is suitable for individuals of all age groups who want to enhance their cognitive functions, whether it's to improve work productivity, boost memory, or maintain mental acuity as they age.
- Professionals in Creative Fields: It can benefit creative professionals by enhancing their ability to find words more easily, speak fluently, and think creatively and effectively.
Noocube caters to a specific set of audiences focused on improving productivity, reducing stress, and enhancing cognitive performance. Its target audience includes:
- Athletes and Sports Enthusiasts: NooCube is marketed to athletes and sports enthusiasts who seek improved exercise performance, increased motivation, and enhanced workout intensity. It helps them stay focused on their training goals.
- Students: NooCube benefits students as it enhances focus, learning performance, memory, and stress management. It can be particularly helpful during exam preparation and periods of academic stress.
- Parents: NooCube is favored among parents who juggle multiple responsibilities and need to stay energized and focused. It helps them manage the demands of daily life more effectively.
- High Achievers: Individuals with high-pressure lifestyles, such as business owners and professionals, can benefit from NooCube's stress-reducing effects and improved cognitive function, which enable them to stay focused and problem-solve effectively.
- Adults Over 55: NooCube is designed to support longevity and brain plasticity, offering enhanced memory, mood improvement, and reduced brain fog, which are especially relevant for older adults.
Side Effects of NooCube And Mind Lab Pro
While both NooCube and Mind Lab Pro contain a number of natural components and are generally considered safe for most people, each supplement has its own distinct adverse effects linked to particular ingredients. It's important to remember that these side effects are relatively uncommon and moderate and that each person may react differently.
Noocube:
-
Huperzine-A: At high doses, Huperzine-A might have adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sweating. Additionally, it could cause cramping, twitching, and restlessness.
MindLab Pro:
- Lion's Mane Mushroom: Although Lion's Mane Mushroom is generally safe, some people may occasionally develop digestive problems like stomach pain, diarrhea, or an upset stomach.
- Rose Rhodiola: Some people may have adverse effects such as dry mouth, vertigo, or irritation. Taking too close to bedtime could also make it difficult to sleep.
- Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine): High doses of vitamin B6 have the potential to have negative side effects such as nerve damage, numbness, or tingling in the extremities. The quantity in Mind Lab Pro, however, is within acceptable bounds.
Summary
Both NooCube and Mind Lab Pro offer a range of natural ingredients designed to enhance cognitive function and support overall brain health. However, choosing these two brain supplements depends on individual needs, goals, and sensitivities.
NooCube is an excellent choice for:
- Students
- Athletes and Sports Enthusiasts
- Parents
- High Achievers
- Adults Over 55
Mind Lab Pro is recommended for:
- Professionals and Students
- Individuals in High-Stress Environments
- People of All Ages
Both supplements have their unique strengths and ingredients. NooCube specializes in addressing specific lifestyle needs, such as athletic performance, academic demands, and multitasking. On the other hand, Mind Lab Pro offers a comprehensive approach to cognitive enhancement and brain health, making it suitable for a broader audience looking to optimize mental performance.
For more cognitive-enhancing supplements, read the 7 Best NootropicsTo Maximize Your Brain's Potential.
NooCube works alongside your daily routine as a functional nootropic — allowing you to get more accomplished in a 24-hour period without feeling overwhelmed by...
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Steve Theunissen
Author