How do personalized nootropics work?

Personalized nootropics are specifically tailored supplements designed to optimize various aspects of cognitive performance, such as focus, creativity, task switching, and motivation. According to Andrew Huberman, the idea behind personalized nootropics is that different brain functions are governed by different chemicals and brain systems, making the concept of a single "smart drug" overly simplistic.

One example highlighted by Huberman is the company Thesis, which creates targeted nootropic blends for specific outcomes. These blends use high-quality ingredients like DHA, ginkgo biloba, and phosphatidylserine, among others, to match the unique brain chemistry and genetics of the individual user 1. Users can try different blends over the course of a month to identify which formulations work best for their particular cognitive needs, such as formulations for motivation, clarity, and logic 1 2.

Additionally, Thesis offers free consultations with a brain coach to help users optimize their experience and fine-tune their favorite formulas 1. The customization process typically involves taking a brief quiz to assess one’s specific cognitive goals and then trying out various personalized blends to determine the most effective combination for their unique brain and body states 3.

Overall, personalized nootropics like those from Thesis are designed to enhance performance by catering to the individual's specific cognitive and physiological requirements, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.