Cognitive health refers to the mental processes that allow us to think, learn, remember and make decisions. It’s what helps us stay sharp and focused in our daily lives, from recalling names to problem-solving during a challenging task at work.
Cognitive function also involves maintaining clarity of thought and emotional balance, which are crucial for overall well-being.
Why is cognitive health important?
Simply put, our brains are the control centre of everything we do. From remembering essential information to managing stress and multitasking, the ability to think clearly and efficiently can significantly impact our personal and professional lives.
When cognitive health deteriorates, it can lead to memory problems, lack of focus, poor decision-making and even mental fatigue. Factors like stress, lack of sleep and nutrient deficiencies can contribute to cognitive decline, making it vital to nurture our brain function.
The good news is that there are ways to support and enhance cognitive function. One of the most effective methods is through cognitive supplements, which can help nourish and protect the brain, improving focus, memory, and mental clarity.
Leading wellness brand and supplement retailer Healf’s head nutritionist, Eleanor Hoath, comments on the importance of cognitive function, saying: “Our brains are the control centre of everything we do, from remembering names to solving problems and staying focused on the task at hand. With today’s fast-paced lifestyles, stress, and endless to-do lists, it’s no surprise that our cognitive performance can sometimes lag. That’s where cognitive function supplements come in and are so useful for providing the essential support our brains need to stay sharp, focused, and resilient.”
There’s a wide variety of cognitive supplements on the market, each targeting different aspects of brain function.
Finding the right one (or several) that helps maintain balance is essential for keeping your mind sharp and your performance optimal.
Expert tips to improve cognitive function and focus
Dr Jo Mennie, a well-respected expert in the field of cognitive health, shares her key tips for improving mental performance.
Optimise your nutrition for brain health
Nutrition plays a vital role in supporting cognitive function. Some key nutrients include iron and iodine, which help maintain normal cognitive function, support memory, and improve learning.
Magnesium and vitamins B2, B6, and B12 also contribute to normal psychological function, regulating mood and reducing mental fatigue. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in these nutrients is essential for optimal brain health.
Supplement with nootropics
Nootropics, often referred to as smart drugs, are supplements designed to enhance cognitive function.
These can range from herbs like ginkgo biloba and ashwagandha, known for their brain-boosting properties, to more targeted substances like L-theanine and Rhodiola Rosea, which help reduce stress and improve focus.
These supplements work by supporting brain health, improving memory, and increasing mental clarity. For those looking for a mental edge, nootropics offer a natural and effective option to improve cognitive function.
Stay consistent with hydration and routine
Drinking water is just as important for the brain as it is for the body. Staying well-hydrated ensures that your brain functions efficiently.
Alongside proper hydration, maintaining a consistent routine is essential. Include iodine- and magnesium-rich foods in your diet, as these nutrients support nerve transmission and psychological balance, boosting focus and concentration.
Best cognitive function supplements at a glance:
Neurohacker Focus
Neurohacker Focus is a supplement designed to optimise mental clarity, concentration, and productivity. Its formula combines nootropics, adaptogens, and key nutrients like Citicoline, L-Theanine, and Bacopa Monnieri, which work synergistically to enhance cognitive function.
By supporting neurotransmitter activity, reducing mental fatigue and promoting calm focus, it helps you stay locked in on tasks without feeling jittery. Whether tackling a big project or navigating a busy day, Neurohacker Focus provides the mental stamina and sharpness needed to perform at your peak. I keep this one on my desk at the office.
Buy now £79.99, Healf
Humantra Electrolytes
Hydration is key to brain function, and Humantra Electrolytes are designed to support it in the smartest way possible. Electrolytes like sodium, potassium and magnesium help maintain fluid balance, support nerve communication and fuel energy production, which are all critical for staying sharp and focused.
Even mild dehydration can lead to brain fog and reduced concentration, but Humantra’s formula provides rapid rehydration for immediate mental clarity. Unlike sugary drinks that cause energy spikes and crashes, the brand’s clean, science-backed blend ensures steady energy, helping you stay alert and perform at your best.
Buy now £25.50, Amazon
Earth's Secret Boost Complex
Earth's Secret Boost Complex's formula combines adaptogens and nutrients to help you stay focused and energised even during the most demanding days.
Key ingredients like Hyrdrocurc Tumeric and Reishi Mushroom work together to help your immune system and support cognitive function crucial for sharp thinking. To further support mental alertness, Boost includes organic ginger root powder, which reduces inflammation and protects the brain from free radicals due to powerful antioxidants.
It is also designed to help memory function by increasing the neurotransmitters in our brain responsible for memory, focus, and reaction time. Boost creates a sense of calm focus for optimal brain performance along with steady energy release throughout the day.
Boost is also fortified with essential vitamins and minerals that help combat oxidative stress, supporting long-term brain health. This supplement is ideal for anyone preparing for an important work project, tackling a challenging study session, or simply wanting to perform at their best daily.
Buy now £35.00, Earth's Secret
Bio-Synergy Lion’s Mane Gummies
Lion’s Mane mushroom is known to aid memory, focus, and mental clarity. Its active compounds, hericenones and erinacines, promote the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), essential for maintaining and repairing neurons. These benefits make it a popular choice for supporting brain health and reducing oxidative stress.
The gummies deliver these benefits in a convenient, tasty format, enriched with a natural blueberry flavour. This makes them a great option for those who prefer an alternative to capsules or powders. The formula is free from artificial additives, focusing on quality and absorption to maximize results. Whether for sharper focus during busy days or long-term brain support, they offer a practical, enjoyable way to integrate Lion’s Mane into your routine.
Buy now £29.99, Very
GP Nutrition Longevity Complex
This product combines adaptogenic mushrooms, antioxidants and bioactive compounds. Ingredients like Lion's Mane, Reishi, and Cordyceps mushrooms are known for enhancing focus and mental clarity while supporting overall brain health. Curcumin, in its highly bioavailable Hydrocurc form, is said to offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Additionally, green tea extract and quercetin deliver antioxidants, protecting brain cells from oxidative stress and encouraging mental sharpness. This carefully balanced blend supports not only cognitive function but also overall wellness, making it a holistic choice for those looking to optimise brain performance and longevity.
Buy now £35.00, Amazon
Wild Nutrition Pure Strength Omega-3
Packed with high-strength, sustainably sourced omega-3, this supplement offers comprehensive support for brain function and overall well-being. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, are essential for maintaining cognitive health, reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health. Wild Nutrition’s Pure Strength Omega-3 delivers these fatty acids in a highly bioavailable form, derived from small fish to minimise contamination and ensure purity.
This formula is particularly suited for those looking to enhance mental clarity, support emotional balance and reduce the effects of stress on the brain. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 help protect against age-related cognitive decline.
As a daily supplement, it’s an excellent choice for both brain and body, meeting the demands of a modern, fast-paced lifestyle. Wild Nutrition’s commitment to quality and sustainability ensures this product fits seamlessly into a health-conscious, environmentally aware routine.
Buy now £37.00, Wild Nutrition
Sisterly Elevator Powder Food Supplement
Designed to streamline daily supplementation, the Sisterly Elevator Powder offers a comprehensive mix of nutrients tailored to support women’s health. Packed with 24 clinically researched vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, it targets common deficiencies while promoting energy, immune health, and hormonal balance. Its standout ingredients include CoEnzyme Q10 for energy production, B vitamins for nervous system function, and vegan Vitamin D3 with K2 to optimise bone and immune health.
This easy-to-use powder is especially beneficial for those with busy lifestyles or digestive challenges, offering high bioavailability in a single daily dose. Ideal for simplifying routines, it replaces the need for multiple supplements without compromising efficacy.
Buy now £96.76, Brown Thomas
Dirtea Lion's Mane Gummies
These Lion's Mane Gummies offer a practical and enjoyable way to harness the cognitive benefits of Lion’s Mane mushrooms. Packed with 2,400mg of high-quality Lion's Mane extract per serving, these gummies are designed to enhance memory, mental clarity and focus. They also include vitamins B5 and B12, which support energy metabolism, reduce fatigue and help regulate the nervous system.
The natural apple flavour and sugar-free, vegan-friendly formulation make them a standout choice for those looking to avoid the earthy taste of traditional mushroom supplements. Perfect for busy lifestyles, these gummies provide a portable, no-fuss option for maintaining brain health on the go.
Buy now £20.99, lookfantastic
Balance Lion's Mane Coffee
Sip on the brain-energising benefits of Lion's Mane mushrooms in place of your regular coffee. Or when added to it, the buzz ingredient supports improved concentration and mental clarity throughout the day.
I found myself feeling more mentally sharp and energetic after incorporating this product into my morning routine. The blend is praised for not altering the coffee’s taste, while still delivering noticeable cognitive benefits.
Although not quite a double espresso, this is a natural boost to both energy and brain function without any added chemicals. Plus, it tastes very smooth and natural.
Buy now £16.99, Balance Coffee
Efamol Efalex Brain Formula Capsules
Since 1995, these trusted capsules have supported brain function, offering a blend of omega-3 fatty acids and other beneficial ingredients. This formula combines DHA and EPA, key omega-3 fatty acids, with GLA omega-6 fatty acids, derived from evening primrose oil.
These nutrients work together to enhance cognitive function, memory and concentration. DHA is particularly important for maintaining optimal brain health and is essential for children’s development, while GLA helps support brain cell function.
Additionally, vitamin E is included to combat oxidative stress, protecting brain cells from free radical damage. This formulation is suitable for the whole family, with small, easy-to-swallow capsules that are even appropriate for children aged five and older.
Buy now £23.49, Boots
Verve Honest Mushrooms
Verve’s Honest Mushrooms blend offers a combination of medicinal mushrooms and adaptogens designed to support overall well-being. This blend includes ingredients like Lion's Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Chaga, which are known for their immunity, cognitive, and antioxidant properties.
For example, Lion's Mane is particularly noted for stimulating Nerve Growth Factors (NGF).
Adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, Rhodiola and Ginseng are also featured in the formula. These ingredients are known for helping the body manage stress, boost energy and improve mental clarity. This combination aims to provide a holistic approach to health, addressing both physical and mental wellness.
Buy now £49.00, Verve
Ancient + Brave True Creatine+
This one isn’t just for gym goers. I have been a fan of Ancient + Brave for a while and the True Creatine+ is a solid choice for cognitive health, thanks to its combination of creatine, taurine, magnesium and vitamin D.
Creatine is well-known for enhancing energy production in both muscles and the brain, supporting cognitive clarity and mental focus. Taurine, an amino acid, has antioxidant properties that support brain function and reduce mental fatigue. Magnesium, crucial for nerve function, helps manage stress and supports relaxation, while vitamin D strengthens the immune system and aids mood regulation.
These ingredients work to improve mental performance, focus, and overall well-being, while supporting physical performance too.
Buy now £28.00, Ancient + Brave
Verdict
I chose Neurohacker Focus as my favourite supplement for cognitive function because it delivers a combination of ingredients that support mental clarity and sustained concentration.
The blend of nootropics, adaptogens, and key nutrients like Citicoline, L-Theanine, and Bacopa Monnieri really works for me. I find it helps keep me sharp without the jitteriness that some other supplements can cause.
The formula supports my ability to stay locked in, and I appreciate how it promotes productivity without the crash.
