The effects of a multi-ingredient cognitive formula on alertness, focus, motivation, calmness and psychomotor performance in comparison to caffeine and placebo

Excerpt

Most pre-workout supplements are based on the stimulant caffeine, containing anywhere from 100-300 mg of caffeine in a serving. While research has confirmed increased mental focus and acuity from the use of caffeine, stimulant sensitive individuals should assess their tolerance before using pre-workout supplements containing caffeine. Caffeine can have dose-dependent unwanted effects contributing to a nervous or anxious feeling that can keep athletes from staying focused and even sleeping well. Ingredients to increase the synthesis and release of neurotransmitters (Tyrosine, acetyl-L-carnitine, alpha-GPC), and blood flow to the brain (Gingko Biloba), offer neuroprotection (blueberry extract), and improve mental regeneration and reduce mental stress (L-Theanine) might offer a stimulant-free alternative to improve pre-workout cognition. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to investigate the effects of caffeine and a stimulant-free pre-workout formula on alertness (A), focus (F), calmness (CAL), motivation (MOT), cognition (COG), reaction (R), motor reaction time (MR), memory (MEM) and vertical jump power (VJP). …