Tag: quality

  • The Essential Role of Neurotransmitters in Mind and Body

    The Essential Role of Neurotransmitters in Mind and Body

    Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that act as the brain’s communication network, relaying signals between nerve cells and influencing everything from movement and mood to digestion and sleep. Their delicate balance shapes how we think, feel, and function daily. Let’s explore how these tiny molecules work, their impact on health, and how lifestyle choices can optimize their performance.

    What Are Neurotransmitters?

    Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that enable communication between nerve cells (neurons) in the nervous system. These molecules transmit signals from one neuron to another or to other cell types, such as muscle or gland cells. By binding to specific receptors, they regulate processes ranging from movement and thought to mood and the body’s stress response.They fall into three main categories based on function

    Excitatory neurotransmitters

    These chemicals act like an accelerator pedal for the nervous system, increasing activity in receiving cells. Glutamate, for example, plays a critical role in learning and memory by strengthening connections between neurons.

    Inhibitory neurotransmitters

    These substances apply the brakes, reducing cellular activity to prevent overstimulation. GABA, known for its calming effects, helps ease anxiety, promote relaxation, and maintain healthy sleep patterns.

    Modulatory neurotransmitters

    Instead of directly activating or suppressing neurons, these chemicals fine-tune how other neurotransmitters operate. Dopamine, linked to motivation and reward, influences pleasure, learning, and even addiction mechanisms.The brain thrives when these three types are balanced. Imbalances—like low serotonin levels linked to depression—can disrupt physical and mental health.

    How Neurotransmitters Work

    Neurotransmission occurs through a four-step process:

    1. Electrical signal (action potential): A neuron sends an electrical impulse along its axon to the synapse—the gap between neurons.
    2. Release of neurotransmitters: The signal triggers vesicles at the neuron’s end to release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft.
    3. Receptor binding: These chemicals cross the gap and bind to receptors on the receiving cell, triggering either excitatory or inhibitory effects.
      • Cleanup: After signaling, neurotransmitters are removed via: Reuptake (reabsorbed by the original neuron)
      • Enzymatic breakdown
      • Diffusion away from the synapse

    Key Neurotransmitters and Their Roles

    • Serotonin Role: Regulates mood, sleep, appetite, and digestion.
      • Low levels: Linked to depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
      • Natural support: Foods rich in tryptophan (salmon, eggs) and regular exercise.
    • Dopamine Role: Drives motivation, reward, and motor control.
      • Imbalance: Low levels associate with Parkinson’s; excess ties to schizophrenia.
    • GABARole: Calms neural activity, reduces stress.
      • Deficiency: May cause anxiety or epilepsy.
    • Glutamate Role: Vital for learning and memory.
      • Excess: Can damage neurons in conditions like Alzheimer’s.
    • Noradrenaline Role: Manages alertness and stress response.
      • Low levels: Lead to fatigue and poor focus.
    • Acetylcholine Role: Controls muscle movement and memory.
      • Decline: A hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
    • Endorphins Role: Natural painkillers that boost mood.
      • Deficiency: Increases pain sensitivity.

    Neurotransmitters and Health

    • Mental Health: Depression and anxiety often correlate with low serotonin or GABA.
    • Bipolar disorder may involve dopamine and glutamate irregularities.
    • Neurological Disorders: Parkinson’s stems from dopamine loss.
    • Alzheimer’s links to acetylcholine depletion.
    • Gut-Brain Connection: 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut. An unhealthy diet (high in sugar, processed foods) disrupts gut bacteria, impairing serotonin synthesis. Studies increasingly tie poor diets to higher depression rates.

    Lifestyle’s Impact on Neurotransmitters

    • Diet: Prioritize protein (provides amino acids for neurotransmitter production) and omega-3s (support brain structure).
    • Exercise: Boosts serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins, enhancing mood and resilience.
    • Sleep: Critical for neurotransmitter replenishment. Poor sleep weakens signaling efficiency.
    • Stress Management: Chronic stress drains GABA and serotonin. Mindfulness, meditation, or therapy can restore balance.

    Conclusion

    Neurotransmitters are the body’s communication lifelines, shaping our emotions, thoughts, and physical health. By understanding how diet, exercise, and stress affect these chemicals, we can make proactive choices to support mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall well-being. Small, consistent changes—like prioritizing sleep or nutrient-rich foods—can help manage conditions like anxiety, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases, paving the way for a healthier, more balanced life.

  • Mitochondria, and the Vagus Nerve Affect Both Gut and Mental Health

    Mitochondria, and the Vagus Nerve Affect Both Gut and Mental Health

    Recently, there has been growing interest in how our gut health can influence our mental well-being—and vice versa. What we eat, how we handle stress, and the lifestyle we lead have a significant impact on the gut-brain axis, the complex network of signals that flows between the gut and the brain. Research shows that the gut microbiota not only plays an essential role in digestion but also influences mood, cognitive function, and even mental disorders such as anxiety and depression.

    Another critical factor affecting both gut and brain health is mitochondria—the small energy factories within our cells. Mitochondria are central to energy production, and their health and function are vital for optimal body and brain performance. When mitochondria are dysfunctional, it can lead to both physical and mental health problems.

    Additionally, the vagus nerve, the longest nerve in the body, plays a crucial role in communication between the gut and the brain. The vagus nerve acts as a primary channel for signals traveling from the gut to the brain, influencing gut health and brain functions like mood, stress response, and cognition.

    In this article, we explore how diet, lifestyle, mitochondrial health, and the vagus nerve affect the gut-brain axis—and how you can take active steps to optimize gut health, mitochondrial function, and mental health.

    What Is the Gut-Brain Axis?

    The gut-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain, which occurs via neural pathways, hormones, and signaling molecules. A significant portion of the body’s serotonin—a hormone that regulates mood and well-being—is actually produced in the gut. This highlights how gut health can directly impact our mental state.

    In addition to serotonin, the gut is home to a complex microbiome—a community of billions of bacteria and other microorganisms. This microbiome is critical for numerous physiological processes, including immune function, metabolic activities, and even mood regulation. When gut flora is imbalanced, it can lead to both physical and mental health problems.

    The Role of the Vagus Nerve in the Gut-Brain Axis

    The vagus nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system and serves as a direct communication line between the gut and the brain. It regulates many automatic functions in the body, such as heart rate, digestion, and breathing. The vagus nerve is especially important for the gut-brain axis because it sends signals from the gut to the brain and vice versa, influencing mood, stress levels, and cognition.

    A healthy vagus nerve can help reduce inflammation, regulate gut microbiota, and promote positive communication between the gut and the brain. Stimulating the vagus nerve can also support brain health by enhancing cognitive functions and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

    How to Stimulate the Vagus Nerve

    The vagus nerve can be stimulated in several ways, including breathing techniques, meditation, physical activity, exposure to cold water (e.g., cold showers or ice baths), and even specific supplements and diets. By stimulating the vagus nerve, you can improve gut-brain communication and optimize both mental and physical health.

    The Role of Mitochondria in the Gut-Brain Axis

    Mitochondria are essential for the body’s energy production. They convert nutrients from food into ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which cells use as fuel. This energy production occurs through a process called cellular respiration. Mitochondria are not only important for the body’s physical functions but also for brain health. Brain cells have particularly high energy demands, and mitochondrial ATP production is critical for cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity.

    In addition to energy production, mitochondria play a vital role in regulating cell life cycles, controlling inflammation, and protecting against oxidative stress. When mitochondria are dysfunctional or in poor health, cells may lack sufficient energy, leading to both physical symptoms and mental health issues.

    How Diet Affects the Gut-Brain Axis and Mitochondria

    Diet plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and mitochondrial function. What we eat can either support or disrupt gut microbiota and mitochondrial activity, which in turn affects brain health.

    Fiber and Prebiotics

    Fiber is essential for gut health as it serves as nourishment for the “good” bacteria in the gut. A fiber-rich diet promotes a diverse gut microbiota, which can positively influence brain health. Prebiotic foods such as garlic, onions, bananas, and oats are rich in fiber and stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improving digestion and mental health.

      Fiber also indirectly supports mitochondrial health. By enhancing gut health, it can improve nutrient delivery to cells, thus supporting energy production in mitochondria.

      High-Quality Fat Sources

      Fats are also crucial for gut and brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish, chia seeds, walnuts, and flaxseeds, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. These fats can help reduce inflammation in both the gut and the brain, supporting cognitive function and mental health.

        Omega-3s also promote mitochondrial health by improving their function and reducing oxidative stress. This helps maintain mitochondria’s ability to produce ATP, which is critical for brain and body energy supply.

        Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Foods

        Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, vegetables, nuts, and dark chocolate, can protect both the gut and the brain from oxidative stress. Antioxidants also help shield mitochondria from damage caused by free radicals, which is vital for maintaining their function.

        Reduce Processed Foods and Sugar

        Processed foods and sugar can disrupt gut flora balance, affecting communication between the gut and brain. A high-sugar diet can also increase inflammation, which has been linked to various mental health problems. Excessive sugar intake can further impair mitochondrial function by promoting free radical production and oxidative stress, weakening cellular energy production.

          Lifestyle and Stress Management

          Lifestyle is just as important as diet when it comes to the gut-brain axis. Stress is one of the most significant disruptors of gut microbiota, which can negatively impact brain health. When the body is under stress, it releases stress hormones such as cortisol, which can cause inflammation in both the gut and brain.

          Meditation and Relaxation

          Meditation and relaxation techniques have been shown to reduce cortisol levels. This can help lower inflammation and improve both gut function and brain health. Regular meditation can also strengthen the gut-brain axis by improving communication between the two.

            Meditation and relaxation can positively affect the vagus nerve as well. Activating the parasympathetic nervous system promotes a relaxed state and reduces the effects of stress on both the gut and brain.

            Regular Physical Activity

            Physical activity is another key factor for gut and mental health. Exercise has been shown to promote the growth of “good” gut bacteria and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by releasing endorphins. Maintaining an active lifestyle can improve both gut health and mental well-being.

              Physical activity also enhances mitochondrial function by stimulating mitochondrial biogenesis—the process by which new mitochondria are formed. This can boost energy production, improve physical endurance, and support cognitive function.

              Sleep and Recovery

              Sleep is essential for both gut and brain function. During sleep, the body repairs itself, and gut flora balance is restored. Poor sleep has been linked to numerous health problems, including gut disorders and mental health issues. Prioritizing good sleep quality is crucial for maintaining a healthy gut-brain axis.

                Sleep is also vital for mitochondrial health. During sleep, mitochondria undergo critical repair processes that help clear out waste products and regenerate.

                Supplements, Nootropics, and Vagus Nerve Stimulation

                In addition to food and lifestyle choices, supplements can effectively support gut health, mitochondrial function, and mental well-being. Nootropics, often called “brain supplements,” have become popular for their potential to improve cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and mental clarity. Although nootropics are not a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle, they can be a useful tool for optimizing brain function, especially when paired with proper nutrition and stress management.

                Several natural nootropics can positively impact mental health, mitochondria, and gut health by influencing neurotransmitters in the brain and supporting energy metabolism. Compounds like L-serine and choline play critical roles in neurotransmitter production and cognitive function, while L-carnitine and citrulline enhance mitochondrial energy production and improve blood flow to the brain. Marine peptides and taurine contribute to gut-brain axis health by reducing inflammation and supporting digestion. Additionally, Lion’s Mane stimulates nerve growth factor for neurogenesis, and Rhodiola Rosea reduces stress and boosts resilience. Extracts like Ginkgo Biloba (Maidenhair Tree) improve cerebral circulation, and L-theanine promotes relaxation and focus, making these nootropics valuable tools for holistic brain health. All of the natural nootrpics are included in the Nortropics.com Clarity nootropics stacker.

                Are Nootropics Right for You?

                Nootropics can be a useful part of a holistic approach to mental and gut health. However, as with any supplement, it’s important to use them thoughtfully and as part of a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep. It’s also wise to consult a healthcare professional before starting nootropics, especially if you have specific health concerns or are taking medication.

                Conclusion

                The gut-brain axis is a powerful system that connects the body’s two most important organs—the gut and the brain—in ways that are now understood to be essential for both physical and mental health. By prioritizing a healthy diet, regular exercise, effective stress management, vagus nerve stimulation, optimizing mitochondrial health, and strategically using nootropics, we can support and optimize both gut and brain health—for improved quality of life and well-being.

                Sources:

                HOW Brain gut axis works:

                https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gut-brain-connection#TOC_TITLE_HDR_5

                The relationship between gut microbiom and brain function:

                https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/76/7/481/4985887

                Stress and microbiotica and the gut-brain axis, mental helth:

                https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39824687

                https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33693453

              1. How to cycle nortropics

                How to cycle nortropics

                Should You Cycle Nootropics? Here’s Why Taking a Break Can Be Beneficial

                With nootropics, consistency is key, but so is balance. Cycling your nootropic supplements can help keep them working for you while supporting your brain’s natural processes in the way it likes best. Here at Nortropics, we empower you for a healthy cognitive life by making informed choices. So let’s go ahead and find out why cycling nootropics, such as our formula Clarity, could be a good choice for long-term results.

                Neuroplasticity and Adaptation: Keep Your Brain Engaged

                The human brain is an amazing organ, ever-changing and rescripting itself in a non-stop process called neuroplasticity. This power of adaptation can be a double-edged sword: the more consistently an ingredient is used, the less sensitive the responding systems in your brain become. Cycling gives your brain some time to reset so that the pathways being touched by nootropics stay sensitive. It’s like allowing your brain a little breathing room so it goes back to gaining from the support Clarity gives when you return to using it.

                Preventing Tolerance: Maximize Long-Term Benefits

                Some nootropic ingredients, such as Rhodiola Rosea or L-Theanine, will lose a little potency over time if taken without breaks. That’s because your body can build up a tolerance to certain compounds with prolonged use. By cycling-whether it’s just taking 1-2 rest days a week, or going on a longer break every few months-you give your system time to reset. That way, when you do come back to Clarity, you’ll feel all of its benefits without diminishing returns.

                Supporting Natural Brain Function: All About Balance

                While nootropics do a great job of improving focus and clarity, it is essential to give your brain space to work naturally. Taking breaks allows your brain to engage in cognitive processes without relying on support, which enables you to stay balanced and resilient long-term. Think of this as training your brain to be strong independently, yet still leveraging the boost when needed with Clarity.

                Effective Ways to Cycle Nootropics

                Cycling doesn’t necessarily need to be that confusing; it’s all about finding what works best for you. A common approach is using nootropics 5–6 days a week with 1–2 rest days, or taking a break of 1–2 weeks after 8–12 consistent weeks. Do what your body tells you.

                We in Nortropics are here to guide you in growth, both in cognitive health and mental wellbeing. Cycling is not about stepping backward; it’s about stepping forward with intention and care toward what your mind is truly capable of.

              2. Personal Growth and Embrace change

                Personal Growth and Embrace change

                Personal growth and embrace change means to understand your own behavioral patterns and why you do the things you do.

                Once upon a time, we had patterns that helped us, and then at another point, later in life, those same patterns that helped us, are the beasts that hold us back. For instance, a person may experience a behavior that they don’t like in themselves, perhaps they are afraid of conflict, above average introvertenes, an inability to feel anger or an excessive need for control. Feeling those things are quite normal, and many people spend years in therapy trying to overcome it, while other people live with them, believing that there is nothing to be done. 

                However, in order to have a great relationship with ourselves, we need to look into where those behavioral patterns originated from. We need to do this regardless of how we feel about ourselves because shining a light on all aspects of yourself is a key ingredient in self-development. 

                The secret of our brain

                The most important job of our brain is to keep us safe. A lot of people believe that our brain is helping us to be happy, but it is in fact categorizing information in order to generalize it and make sense of the world around us. It does this to keep us safe and this is where human behavior and self-development becomes really interesting. 

                Imagine a child growing up with parents who have high traits of neuroticism, while being highly extroverted and a low degree of openness to experience, it can be argued that such a person may have very “loud” emotions and an inclination towards keeping safe. A child with parents like this may experience a chaotic environment with lots of emotions and perhaps less room to express their own emotions. 

                One way our brain then operates to keep us safe is to generalize our parents’ behavior and build neurological connections that structure our own behavior in ways that keep us safe around the emotional instability of our parents. 

                Emotional trauma

                For instance, we have a family with a dad who gets extremely angry when the child breaks something, and a mother who gets extremely concerned when the child expresses discomfort. This family could inadvertently create a future adult who expresses an inability to express anger or other emotions, a people pleaser or an above average introvertedness, because keeping safe as a child meant locking away certain emotions as an adult. 

                The behavior that once was designed as a blueprint to protect, now serves as the beast that holds us back from a fulfilled life. 

                The Neuroscience of Behavioral Change

                How do we create real personal growth and embrace change? Real change is deeply rooted in the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire itself. This is a process known as neuroplasticity. When we engage in new behaviors, we create new neural pathways. The behavior you’ve done for years is like a highway, while the new behavior you are just starting out with is like a dirt road right next to the highway. Which road do you think your brain is wired to automatically take? Repetition is the key to building a strong road and by repeating new behavior, the new behavior becomes more automatic over time. 

                Our behavior is often a response to a specific trigger, and when we know that behavior can become automatic, it means that a trigger can create an automatic response.

                Identify triggers

                When you identify and modify these triggers, it can help change the behavior associated with it. For example, if stress triggers emotional eating, finding alternative stress-relief methods can help break this pattern.

                Another way to work on modifying your triggers is emotional regulation. Emotions play a significant role in behavior, and some also say that emotions are the fuel for any behavior. Techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral strategies or specific supplements can help individuals manage their emotions more effectively. This in turn can reduce the likelihood of reverting to the old patterns you want to avoid. 

                Going from blueprint to beast can definitively be a stressful process because it takes courage to explore yourself. Just like some people bring a flashlight when they go down to the basement, it can feel scary to explore some parts of us without the right tools. 

                Explore our cognitive flashlights here.

                Sources:

                https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Five_personality_traits

                The Neuroscience of Goals and Behavior Change (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5854216/)

              3. Marine Peptides for muscle Recovery, fitness and Health

                Marine Peptides for muscle Recovery, fitness and Health

                Marine Peptides and Physical Training

                As a personal trainer with experience in over 4,500 personal training sessions and a large number of clients aiming for weight reduction, I have incorporated marine peptides for muscle recovery and general health in my clients’ diets for several years. This has yielded many positive experiences related to training, recovery, and overall health. Marine peptides are bioactive compounds derived from organisms such as fish, shellfish, and algae. These peptides are incredibly rich in essential amino acids, collagen, and other substances that enhance the body’s ability to recover, repair, and perform better. Marine peptides consist of short chains of amino acids that are highly bioavailable, allowing them to be rapidly absorbed by the body. This facilitates quicker recovery and muscle repair after training.

                Marine Peptides and Muscle Recovery

                One of the primary areas where marine peptides can make a significant difference is in muscle recovery. After intense training, your muscles undergo a lot of stress and micro-damage, which is a natural part of muscle building and hypertrophy.To maximize the benefits of training, quick and proper recovery is essential. Marine peptides, particularly those rich in collagen, are crucial in the repair and recovery of damaged muscle fibers. By shortening recovery time, marine peptides enable individuals to resume training more quickly and at higher intensities, leading to better results and performance. This adds new dimensions to the role of a personal trainer, positively influencing training programming.

                Reduction in Inflammation with Marine Peptides

                Inflammation or symptoms of inflammation are common issues or consequences of training. Whether it’s delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) or chronic joint pain, inflammation can hinder progress and lead to injuries and further inflammation.Marine peptides have demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation and symptoms that arise after intense workouts. This not only alleviates pain (soreness, stiffness) but also aids in long-term joint and muscle injury prevention.

                Joint Health for Better Health

                Good joint health is crucial for training and progression, especially for those engaged in strength and high-impact training. For these individuals, healthy cartilage and connective tissue are vital, with collagen playing a key role. This results in stable and pain-free joints, allowing for increased training intensity and load. Continuous intake of marine peptides can help maintain and improve joint function, enabling training with less pain and reduced injury risk.

                Marine Peptides and Cardiovascular/Cardio Training

                Cardiovascular/cardio training is a fundamental pillar of fitness and health, affecting everything from endurance to overall energy levels (energy metabolism).Marine peptides often share similarities with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve cardiovascular function, including lowering cholesterol levels and enhancing circulation. This is advantageous for training and also serves as a protective measure against cardiovascular diseases. The dual function of training and lowering unhealthy cholesterol together is a significant health benefit.From a training perspective, an optimal cardiovascular system is essential for achieving peak performance.

                Marine Peptides and Weight Reduction

                As I’ve mentioned several times, marine peptides offer numerous health benefits. Several studies have found that marine peptides possess weight-reducing properties, increasing metabolism, improving fat burning, and stabilizing appetite. I have personally observed this in countless individuals seeking to reduce weight or body fat percentage. Those who incorporate marine peptides into their weight reduction process often achieve significant results, with typical reductions ranging from 1.5 to 4 kg per week.

                Conclusion:
                I view marine peptides as an incredibly effective tool in my work as a personal trainer and coach. They provide significant advantages in recovery, inflammation reduction, joint health, cardiovascular health, and weight reduction. Thus, using marine peptides can help individuals achieve their training and weight reduction goals significantly faster.

              4. How Chronic Stress Affects Cortisol Levels and Your Health

                How Chronic Stress Affects Cortisol Levels and Your Health

                Chronic stress is an unavoidable part of our hectic modern lives for many of us. As a personal trainer, coach, and psychotherapist, I have witnessed its consequences firsthand. Stress affects us on every level of our lives, but it is more than just a feeling. It impacts our bodies hormonally, particularly through cortisol, often known as the “stress hormone.” This hormone plays a critical role in how our bodies handle stress, but when it remains constantly elevated due to chronic stress, it can have serious health consequences.

                What is Cortisol and Why is it Important

                Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and is a crucial part of the body’s “fight or flight” response (sympathetic nervous system). When we face a stressor, whether it is a physical threat or a mental burden, cortisol is released to help manage the situation. Cortisol increases blood sugar, prepares the brain’s use of glucose, and suppresses functions that are not necessary in a crisis situation, such as digestion, reflection, and reproduction. However, cortisol is not just a stress hormone. It is also responsible for regulating several vital functions, including metabolism, blood pressure, and the immune system. Therefore, the balance of this hormone is crucial for our health. When our cortisol levels are balanced, we feel better equipped to handle stress and maintain good health.

                How Chronic Stress Affects Cortisol Levels
                What happens when we experience chronic stress? I have seen in many of my clients, whether they come to me for physical training, weight loss, or psychotherapy, that constant stress can lead to persistently high cortisol levels. This is not just a reaction to acute stressors but an ongoing state where your body is in constant alert mode. One can imagine the body as a car engine. When your cortisol levels are constantly elevated, it’s like your car is running at high speed all the time, without a break. This, in turn, leads to a range of health problems because the body never gets a chance to “cool down” or relax. The result is that you may feel fatigued, have trouble sleeping, or even start gaining weight, especially around the waist and organs (visceral fat), which is often referred to as dangerous fat linked to cardiovascular diseases.

                Consequences of Elevated Cortisol Levels

                Over time, elevated cortisol levels can have serious health consequences. As a personal trainer, I often see how this can lead to weight gain, particularly in the form of abdominal fat (visceral fat). This occurs because cortisol increases appetite and causes the body to store fat more efficiently and hold onto it. This was a useful mechanism in our early days when we lived in caves and were hunter-gatherers, with dangers like bears and other predators constantly around us, but it is less useful in today’s modern society. But it doesn’t stop there. Cortisol also affects your immune system. When it is constantly elevated, it can actually weaken the immune system’s ability to fight infections. I have had several clients who frequently feel sick or experience pain without injury and cannot recover from these symptoms. A common denominator is often chronic stress. Furthermore, high cortisol levels dramatically affect your sleep, which in turn leads you into a vicious cycle where poor sleep leads to further stress and hinders recovery, leading to increased cortisol levels. In extreme cases, this can lead to sleep disorders.

                On the psychological side, elevated cortisol levels can lead to or worsen anxiety and depression, which can again lead into a vicious cycle where one exacerbates the other. This is something I often see as a psychotherapist. Clients with constantly high stress levels often report feeling overwhelmed or burned out. Over time, this can lead to serious psychological consequences that can be difficult to recover from.

                How to Reduce Chronic Stress and Lower Cortisol Levels

                Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce chronic stress and thereby lower cortisol levels. As a personal trainer, I always recommend physical activity as one of the best methods to lower these levels. Regular exercise, especially heavy strength training, not only helps burn excess energy, including fat, but also releases endorphins, the body’s natural “happiness hormones,” which help balance cortisol levels. I also coach most of my clients who fall into the categories of high cortisol levels and/or overweight to make significant lifestyle changes. We address training, diet, activity level, and mental health.

                As a psychotherapist, I often suggest stress management techniques. We focus on being present in the moment and letting go of worries. Even simple breathing exercises can work wonders in calming the body’s stress response. Meditation exercises have also proven to be effective. Furthermore, I often resolve many of these issues with various forms of therapy.

                Diet also plays a role in regulating cortisol. I always recommend my clients eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Avoiding sugar, fast carbohydrates, and too much omega-6 helps regulate blood sugar levels, which in turn can keep cortisol levels in check. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol can also help reduce cortisol levels.

                Supplements and nootropics can lower cortisol levels. I will address some of these supplements. The first is a well-known contributor to reducing stress and cortisol levels. Rhodiola Rosea is known for its stress-reducing properties. This herb has been shown to reduce mental fatigue and stress. Another powerful component and supplement is L-Theanine, which is naturally found in green tea. L-Theanine is an amino acid and neurotransmitter that has been shown to enhance alpha brain waves, resulting in a relaxing state in the brain and body. It is known to reduce anxiety and stress.


                Chronic stress is more than just a mental burden. It affects your entire body, especially when it comes to hormones like cortisol. But when you understand how stress affects us, you can take steps to reduce it and thereby improve both your physical and mental health. Whether you struggle with stress at work, in your personal life, or both, it’s important to take action. By starting with recognition and small changes, you can solve a lot. Health is ultimately the most important thing we have. I encourage everyone to implement physical training, diet, and potentially therapy and coaching, and not least supplements/nootropics, to take control of stress before it takes control of you.

              5. From anxiety to balance – Hear from our customers

                From anxiety to balance – Hear from our customers

                Life consists of ups and downs and this is my story on how I went from anxiety to balance. You have your everyday normal challenges like work and family life, while trying to balance a healthy lifestyle. But throughout life, you will experience life altering events.

                A life altering event can be highly positive – like having a child. It can also be highly negative – like experiencing a serious trauma. But no matter which end of the scale you are balancing on, it will change your life forever. What if I told you, there is a product that can take you from anxiety to balance?

                About the Author

                This article is written by me – a 35-year-old woman, a registered nurse in Norway. The trio from Nortropics has developed a product called ‘Clarity’ and I have been using it since mid-March 2024.

                That means I’m now nearly 6 months into this new life I’m living, thanks to their product! There is only need for one sentence for me to describe what I mean by living a new life;

                – I didn’t know I could live a life without severe anxiety.

                But is it that simple? Yes and no, of course – as everything else in life. What I actually can promise you though, is that I feel different and exclusively for the better since I introduced ‘Clarity’ as a daily routine. I have noticed a remarkable difference both in my physical and mental health since I started to consume this product every single day – even though the nurse in me was highly skeptical. I mean, that skepticism is literally part of my job. But no matter what curve ball life throws my way, this change is here to stay. I found something that took me from anxiety to balance.

                If this made you curious, but not yet convinced – let me give this article more depth. I would like to tell you the reason why my life mostly has consisted of severe anxiety and depression.

                Trauma and mental illness

                As an adult woman, I was diagnosed complex post-traumatic stress disorder (cPTSD), in my late 20’s.

                In reality, I have most likely had the diagnose since early teen-age years, because that’s when the symptoms first occurred. But as a lot of traumatized people in this world – I suppressed it all. cPTSD can be developed by many different kinds of trauma, but mine in particular was developed after years of mental abuse – alongside with violently sexual abuse as a child. The reason why I have decided to include this part of my life in this article, is because sadly – a lot of people all over the world experience the same kind of trauma as me. An experience like this in life will make a huge impact, but no matter how big of an impact – I am here to tell you that there is hope to regain your freedom.

                To heal.

                And again, I feel the urge to mention ‘Clarity’ and tell you that this product has positive effects on my mental state. It really helped me go from anxiety to balance. I don’t remember much of my life before the trauma occurred, so I would have to say that I only remember a life existing of severe anxiety and depression – a consequence from cPTSD.

                I can’t remember a life without planning every single minute of my whole day, weeks ahead – medicated on maximum dosage of antidepressants. And even then, my everyday life consisted of me barely existing between my home and my job.

                I purposely write ‘existed’, because that’s exactly what I did. I haven’t been living for 35 years. No excitement, not thriving – just simply surviving each day.

                Until now.

                Heading for disability benefit

                It takes three years to get a bachelor’s degree as a registered nurse. Because of my mental health – I used almost 5 years. And because of cPTSD my whole life has been like this. Over time, I have never functioned both at home and at work at the same time, leading up to needing sick leave at least once a year. To be honest, I was heading for disability benefit.

                Then I came across one of the co-founders of Nortropics – Stian Sandåker.

                Until this point, I was convinced that my mental health was at a dead end. After three rounds of trauma-specific therapy, I had been told several times that I would never function better.

                Then I was introduced to hypnotic therapy and the product I highly recommend; Clarity.

                Hypnotherapy and Clarity

                As mentioned, Stian Sandåker introduced me to the product Clarity, but he also introduced me to hypnotic therapy. The nurse in me didn’t really believe that any of it would make a difference in my life. The little girl in me was scared, and the woman in me was exhausted, grasping at the last straw of hope.

                And all three versions of me mentioned, is extremely thankful for and still trying to comprehend this lifechanging product. The hypnotic therapy has been used to access my subconscious mind, altering how my conscious mind experience life – experiencing the world as most people do.

                However, Clarity has really upped the game on this one.

                At first, I didn’t really notice any difference, but I didn’t know what I was supposed to notice. I had no idea what to expect. And suddenly it hit me. What I would describe as brain fog, suddenly felt lifted. Like a layer of ‘mush’, just washed away. Like i slowly began going from anxiety to balance.

                My everyday life has been exhausting up to this point, not because I live a busy high-intensity life, because I am absolutely not. It has simply been exhausting because my brain hasn’t been functioning at the right level, consumed with anxiety.

                You know when you are reading a book, and all of a sudden you have read the same sentence, ten times for the past twenty minutes? Well, that’s one way to describe how my brain normally has been functioning throughout the day. And then of course, the anxiety came on top of that.

                Little by little, both me and the people around me noticed the change. I stopped being constantly alert, scanning each room ten times before feeling somewhat safe, stopped giving out cold vibes. I used to feel terrified and hoped people would leave me alone and now i felt balanced.

                Little by little, I stopped being scared of being alive.

                mental Clarity

                At first, I used Clarity twice a day to balance my mental health. I could still experience panic-attacks and anxiety, because let us be honest – nothing is ever done in a day. Change takes time and effort, but Clarity has really made it easier. Clarity helped me go from anxiety to balance.

                Now, 6 months later – I use Clarity once a day, and that’s it. I have been followed up by my doctor, and I can proudly say that for the first time in my life since I was a young teenager, I am not using any medicine. From maximum dosage of antidepressant to nothing but Clarity.

                After six months of using Clarity, I notice the difference within an hour after consuming it. I feel calm, I feel focused and more energized. And all of those effects mentioned, complement each other.

                Brain fog

                To explain further – when I don’t have brain fog, I can focus. When I focus, I don’t use a lot of energy thinking negative thoughts about myself or my capability, and my thoughts doesn’t wander. When I don’t use a lot of energy thinking negative thoughts, I of course feel more energized and overall satisfied. On top of that, I haven’t even mentioned the ingredients in Clarity which itself gives you more energy.

                The biggest single impact of Clarity’s function I have experienced, happened when I was going on vacation. I can’t express it clearly enough – I am scared to death by riding on a plane. This time I had a better mental health than ever, using Clarity on a daily basis. In the late evening before the plane ride, I started feeling anxious.

                Not anxiety, not deeply scared, but really uncomfortable. Trying to distract myself with reading, watching TV and doing crossword puzzles. Nothing worked and I decided to give Clarity a chance – knowing its function. And still, it took me by surprise! Only ten minutes after consuming, the anxiousness was completely gone and it was like an immediate transformation from anxiety to balance.

                100% gone. I relaxed doing crosswords puzzles, not giving the upcoming plane ride one single thought.

                How about that kind of focus, right?

                physical Clarity

                We all know that physical pain can make it more difficult to grow and begin this journey from anxiety to balance. And alongside with better mental health and capacity, Clarity will also make a difference in your physical health. I would especially like to mention my psoriasis, a skin condition resulting in itching, stinging and bleeding dry patches all over the body. I have had especially five patches on my body, giving be grief for at least two decades. The most exposed patch of psoriasis has been placed over the knuckles on top of my hand. It’s exposed for a lot of water and moist throughout a work shift as a nurse. This has resulted in a huge cracked patch of constantly irritated and infected skin. I have tried several types of medicine treatments, but nothing has ever worked more than a couple of weeks straight.

                My psoriasis patches are gone. All you see is where it used to be, because the scarred tissue has a different color than the rest of the skin.

                Other changes that Clarity can provide you with, that I have experienced myself, is painful joints and severe pain in scars. I have even been so lucky to have experienced the absence of a kind of pain only some people with a uterus can relate to – the pain of adenomyosis.

                Woman health is still kind of a mystery in this world, because the research has been less prioritized. I just cannot express enough how thrilled I am to live a life without the severe pain that you can getfrom having adenomyosis.

                When life gives you Clarity

                I can still experience days when I struggle to comprehend the huge impact Clarity has had in my life.

                But trust me, I am a 100% sure that this product works and this is why.

                I have had a couple of days this past 6 months where I have forgotten my daily doses of Clarity and I immediately notice a difference. Only a week ago, I forgot it for three straight days and I didn’t really understand why I felt so different. I didn’t feel depressed or anything, but I just didn’t feel like the best version of me anymore. Tired and kind of awkward, less energy and just weirded out. Luckily all I needed to do was starting consuming Clarity again, and the same day I was back as the best version of me.

                Do you still wonder if Clarity is a product for you?

                How could it not? Let me break it down for you and perhaps you also can begin your journey from anxiety to balance.

                Clarity for life

                I have shared with you about my trauma, singlehandedly because I want to tell the tale of hope. If

                you are holding on to hope, this product might be what you need for your journey.

                • If you are going to therapy, using Clarity can help you to focus on the conversation and keeping a clear mind throughout the day. It can help you keep calm and prevent the fatigue a lot of people experience after a tough session.
                • But those effects can transition to every aspect of life, no matter what your job is, no matter how a normal day looks like for you.
                • If you are a parent and long for more energy after work to follow up on your children’s after-school activities, Clarity may help you with that. Or if you have to help your child with homework, which is way more demanding after a long day.
                • If your job demands a lot of energy from you, staying alert and on the top of your game, Clarity would give you that extra boost. Delivering like never before.
                • Is your talent your job or hobby – writer, musician or some other kind of artist.
                • Does a day filled with anxiety that steals all of your energy sound familiar? I am living proof that Clarity helps you to stay calm. Helps you focus on the healthy thoughts and believe what the logical part of your brain is telling you – not what your anxiety is shouting at you.
                • Are you an athlete, looking for something excelling your restitution? Helping you ace your game in your sport genre?
                • Have your own anxiety to balance journey.

                Do you see where I am going with this? Clarity can boost your life for the better, no matter what it

                looks like. You can even experience all of the versions of life I just mentioned. I know I have.

                I have experienced the benefit of using Clarity as a parent, as a nurse, for my therapy sessions and in

                my hobbies which are combat sport and drawing.

                Summary

                Let me just remind you, we are all human. There is no miracle cure for the perfect life. No matter how

                well you are doing in your life, you will have days that is just not for you. My traumatic past cannot be undone. Life altering events cannot be undone, but it all can be changed for the better.

                If you are ready to change the way you live your life, the products from Nortropics are there to help

                you excel in life.

                I am no longer the old version of me, the one broken to pieces – both mentally and physically. I am

                not even the original version of who I turned out to be, free from anxiety.

                I am the very best version of who I can possibly be.

                So can you.

                Sincerely,

                Anne Marlene Lauli

                Nortropics disclaimer: This is solely a user generated review of our product Clarity. No supplements should ever be taken instead of medicine, nor should this article be considered as health advice. All statements in this article is a subjective experience from one happy customer.

              6. Marine magnesium health benefits: What is it good for?

                Marine magnesium health benefits: What is it good for?

                When it comes to dietary supplements, many of us tend to overlook some of the most basic minerals. Magnesium is one of these, despite playing a key role in a variety of bodily functions. It is widely used in the fitness and bodybuilding community, often in the form of a supplement known as ZMA. ZMA stands for zinc magnesium, and vitamin B6 or “zinc magnesium aspartate.” We’re not just talking about any magnesium here, but marine magnesium from Norway, known for its natural purity and high bioavailability. Marine magnesium offers a range of health benefits that can enhance your body and mind in various ways.

                What is Marine Magnesium?

                Marine magnesium is a natural form of magnesium extracted from seawater. Specifically extracted from the pure, clear, and cold waters off the coast of Norway. Unlike many other forms of magnesium found in different types of rocks and mineral deposits, marine magnesium comes from the sea’s mineral reserves. This gives it a unique purity and makes it easier for the body to absorb and utilize the magnesium.

                Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. Including energy production, DNA synthesis, and muscle and nerve function. Because marine magnesium is naturally derived, it provides a concentrated source of this mineral, which is often lacking in our modern diet.

                Marine Magnesium Health Benefits

                • Energy Production
                  • Most people have felt constantly tired, even after a long and good night’s sleep. Magnesium is crucial for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body’s primary energy carrier. Marine magnesium can help increase ATP production, providing more energy to tackle daily life or exercise. For those who often feel fatigued or have low energy levels, I always recommend taking marine magnesium.
                • Muscle and Nerve Function
                  • As mentioned earlier, magnesium or ZMA (zinc magnesium aspartate) is often used in the fitness and bodybuilding community. Marine magnesium plays an important role as a neurotransmitter, not only on a mental level but also as a transmitter between nerve cells and between nerve and muscle cells. This means that marine magnesium enhances the signaling effect between nerve and muscle cells (motor nerves and muscle potentials). It is known for its ability to help muscles relax, which can prevent cramps and muscle pain. Many people, whether they exercise or not, experience painful nighttime leg cramps. Magnesium has been shown to play a crucial role in muscle relaxation by counteracting the effects of calcium, which causes muscles to contract. This is why many athletes and those who train heavily choose marine magnesium as a daily supplement. Additionally, marine magnesium helps transport calcium out of the muscle cell, allowing the muscle to relax.
                • Bone Health
                  • Calcium is often associated as the most important component of bone health, but magnesium is also vital. Magnesium helps the body absorb calcium and assists in the formation of strong bone mass. Marine magnesium can be an essential part of a balanced diet to prevent osteoporosis, which often affects older people and significantly increases the risk of fractures and bone mass degeneration. This is a health challenge in today’s society.
                • Heart Health
                  • The heart is also a muscle, and it never takes a break. As mentioned earlier, marine magnesium plays a crucial role for muscles, including the heart and its function. Marine magnesium helps regulate blood pressure, prevent arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats), and thus reduce the risk of heart disease. A steady supply of marine magnesium can help maintain a healthy and strong heart and a stable heart rhythm, especially for those prone to heart issues. I recommend using marine peptides preventively.
                • Mental Health and Stress Management
                  • In today’s society, stress is increasingly common and almost unavoidable, but marine magnesium has been shown to counteract this. Magnesium is heavily involved in the regulation of neurotransmitters, including GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), the body’s natural calming neurotransmitter. GABA’s primary role is to inhibit or reduce the activity of nerve cells in the brain and nervous system. When GABA levels are optimal, we experience a sense of calm and mental clarity. Therefore, supplementation with marine magnesium can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression and improve stress management. Several studies have shown that marine magnesium contributes to improved sleep quality, which in turn positively affects mood and mental health in general.

                Who can gain from Marine Magnesium health benefits?

                Athletes and Those Who Exercise: Those who train heavily and athletes need magnesium due to increased sweat production and muscle activity. Marine magnesium can aid in faster and better recovery after training, prevent cramps, prevent injuries, and improve overall performance.

                People with Stressful and Busy Lifestyles: For those living a hectic and stressful lifestyle, marine magnesium can also be very helpful. It not only helps regulate stress hormones but also improves sleep, leading to better stress management.

                Elderly: Older individuals are prone to magnesium deficiency for several reasons, primarily reduced absorption in the intestines and often inadequate diets. Marine magnesium can help maintain bone strength, prevent osteoporosis, and help retain muscle mass and strength, as well as improve heart health.

                Individuals with Magnesium Deficiency: Common signs of magnesium deficiency include fatigue, muscle cramps, and heart palpitations. Other signs include loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Psychological signs of magnesium deficiency include personality changes and epileptic seizures. Magnesium supplements can quickly correct a deficiency and restore balance in the body.

                People with Depression Symptoms: As previously discussed, marine magnesium plays an important role in brain function (neurotransmitter), and research suggests that low levels of magnesium may be linked to depression. Magnesium helps regulate neurotransmitters like GABA and serotonin, which are crucial for mood regulation. Magnesium deficiency can disrupt this regulation and potentially worsen depressive symptoms. Studies have shown that magnesium supplements can reduce symptoms of depression and are considered a potentially important supplement in the treatment of depression. (In such cases, medical professionals should be consulted.)

                As you can see, there are many groups that can enjoy marine magnesium health benefits.

                Bio availability

                One of the greatest advantages of marine magnesium is its bio availability, meaning the body can more easily absorb and utilize it. Many lower-quality types of magnesium have been shown to be difficult for the body to absorb, resulting in significantly reduced effectiveness. Bio availability is more about effectiveness and absorption rather than the amount of micrograms of active ingredient. Therefore, marine magnesium in a laboratory test may show a lower magnesium content, but the absorption and effectiveness are significantly higher than other sources. Many studies demonstrate this clear difference.

                BILDE søylediagramm

                 = magnesium glysinat ; ab = magnesium biglysinat ; b = marine magnesium

                Safety and Purity
                Marine Magnesium from Norway is extracted from some of the cleanest oceans in the world and world-renowned for its purity. Additionally, Norway has some of the world’s strictest controls which makes this a very safe choice for daily use. You don’t have to worry about contamination, which is often found in other sources.

                Price and Quality
                Marine magnesium is slightly more expensive than other forms, but it is worth the price due to its high effectiveness, purity, and safety. In this way, you can say that quality, effectiveness, and safety come at a cost. We have included marine magnesium in our “nootropics stack” to significantly reduce costs without compromising on quality.

                Summary
                Norwegian marine magnesium is a fantastic and well-researched supplement that can help with an incredibly wide range of health benefits. From improving and optimizing energy levels and supporting muscle and nerve functions. To promoting heart health and reducing stress and balancing mental health.

                We chose to include this potent ingredient in our nootropics stack because the marine magnesium health benefits are essential.

                Sources:

                “Bioaccessibility and Bioavailability of a Marine-Derived Multimineral, Aquamin-Magnesium”

                Magnesium and stress

                The Importance of Magnesium in Clinical Healthcare

              7. Optimal mental wellness

                Optimal mental wellness

                To achieve optimal mental wellness should be an area of focus for every human being on earth. However, knowing what kind of products that help you with your own mental wellbeing can be difficult. It can be difficult because of the wide range of supplements you can choose from.

                At Nortropics, we only sell you products we put in our own body. Actually, we only produce products with ingredients that we know exactly where they come from. That should be a minimum, but unfortunately there are many “producers” of nutritional supplements who imports products from places without any sort of quality assurance, and then they put a cool label on it and sell it as a quality product. 

                This approach was discussed internally because it is a lot easier to make lots of money by importing some product and then just labeling it beautifully. However, we ended up taking a stand against white labeling of potentially unknown products. Which means, we work together with Norway’s biggest manufacturer of medicine and plant nutrition, Pharmatech. Our ingredients are either from Norway or sourced through their ethical quality assurance system. The production facilities are FDA approved and even approved by the Norwegian quality assurance “Mattilsynet”, read more about them here. This is our tip to you: if your favorite brand of nutritional supplements are not transparent on their production of products, avoid them at all costs because you do not know how it is manufactured.

                Our vision

                We want to help individuals to unlock their full cognitive potential and achieve optimal mental wellness. 

                This may sound prestigious, especially since we’re currently a very small company with huge ambitions. In other words, we are the underdog who wants to provide an alternative to big pharma. 

                As you can read in the post from our co-founder, our vision is fueled by personal transformation. For this reason, we wholeheartedly believe that most humans today are not even close to fulfilling their potential. To fulfill this vision, we have chosen an approach that includes education and cognitive training in addition to our products. 

                Holistic approach to mental health

                Taking nutritional supplements such as nootropics is a great way to help your brain feel better and when combined with techniques and knowledge, we believe this is the way to reach a holistic approach to mental wellness. 

                It would be awesome to have you join us for this journey. Whether you are seeking to enhance your cognitive abilities, improve your mental wellness, or simply curious about the potential within, Nortropics want to be your partner in this exploration.