With so many nootropics available on the market, it can sometimes be hard to determine the best brain health supplement, but one that gets a lot of attention is Focus Factor.
The supplement is packed full of dozens of ingredients designed to enhance brain health, and it may seem fantastic that it contains so many compounds and substances in the formula.
However, if they synergized to create a powerful combination at an optimal dosage without causing significant downsides, that would only be the case.
Because of this, many people wonder, does Focus Factor work as they claim?
Focus Factor isn’t the right pick if you want a natural brain supplement that balances your mental energy, concentration, and improves memory performance for the long term.
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Effectiveness |
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Contents
What is Focus Factor?
Focus Factor Original is a dietary supplement made by Factor Nutrition Labs that is supposed to enhance brain function, maintain cognitive health, and provide valuable nutrients.
The Focus Factor Original formula includes a proprietary blend of neuro-nutrients, vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, and Omega-3 fatty acids.
In addition, Focus Factor offers a long list of 40 active ingredients that they claim were carefully selected to support cognition, specifically memory, concentration, and focus.
The product is available at numerous online and in-person stores, which has been a factor in the growing popularity of the original supplement.
Over time, manufacturers created additional product options for Focus Factor brain health supplements besides the original blend:
- One option available is Focus Factor Extra Strength that contains the same Original’s Focus Factor ingredients but includes higher amounts of particular vitamins and minerals.
- Focus Factor Brain and Vision is another variety that uses the same formula but with other ingredients meant for eye health like lutein, zeaxanthin, and natural beta-carotene.
- They also produce the same Focus Factor ingredients as gummies for adults, which can be much easier for some people.
Finally, while these Focus Factor products are made for adults, they also offer Focus Factor Kids to benefit children. Focus Factor for kids includes neuro-nutrients and components designed for children four years old and older.
The dose of Focus Factor Kids is made as a gummy with a pleasant berry flavor to make it simpler for young ones to take and helps kids keep their brain and body healthy.
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Product |
Focus Factor Original |
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Manufacturer |
Factor Nutrition Labs |
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Type |
Nootropic |
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Form |
Tablets |
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Content |
60 tablets |
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Dosage |
4 tablets daily |
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Price |
$14.99 |
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Price per serving |
$0.99 |
How Does Focus Factor Work?
While Focus Factor as a brain health supplement combines many beneficial herbs and substances, it does not seem to hit the proper amounts of each one for a full-spectrum result.
Howeve, it seems to fall short in almost every way, even though many ingredients are research-based and potentially effective.
Since most of the better ingredients are contained as part of the complex and proprietary mixture, we doubt that Focus Factor has enough of each element to fulfill the company’s claims successfully.
Furthermore, any effects it offers are subtle, and you would be better off stacking a multivitamin with a superior nootropic product.
Additionally, Focus Factor recommends you take the product for at least six weeks for noticeable results. Other products work immediately and hit their best influence much quicker than this.
With Focus Factor, you could take it for long periods before realizing that it does not work as well as you had hoped.
What Are The Benefits of Focus Factor?
There are many reasons why you may take the supplement, but our Focus Factor review wouldn’t be complete without examining the qualities and how well the supplement works for each of the purposes.
Improves Focus
As the name Focus Factor supplement suggests, you would expect that it can actually improve focus.
Many of the ingredients, like boron, DHA, and Huperzine A, positively affect concentration. Compared with other dietary supplements, we have found that Focus Factor delivers this benefit.
Focus Factor also improves upon focusing ability by reducing stress caused by distraction, excessive worry, and other factors.
It also has components to add mental clarity, regulate focusing behaviors and balance them with relaxation. This benefit is likely caused by adding GABA and other GABAergic compounds.
While Focus Factor works well for this feature, we think adding citicoline or CDP-Choline to the list of ingredients instead of using the other lower-performing cholinergic options found in the supplement would be better.
Promotes Concentration
The sense of concentration is subtle, but if you are well-rested, you can notice the difference. Including N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine may help limit distraction caused by stress or stressful conditions, even though it does not seem like Focus Factor contains an adequate dose.
Still, the various elements included may support this intended benefit.
The high concentration levels that Focus Factor encourages also correspond with users who found that their mental acuity returned, especially with older adults.
If you choose to do multiple things simultaneously, then Focus Factor might help you improve your ability to multi-task without making the task completion take substantially longer.
Because of these improvements to concentration, Focus Factor encourages users to get the most out of their time.
In addition, it can help improve productivity and even motivation because of neurotransmitters like dopamine and epinephrine caused by l-glutamine and other ingredients.
Enhanced Memory Performance
Starting with the nootropic herb Bacopa monnieri and moving to some of the other herbs and substances found in the supplement, Focus Factor has the potential to be a brilliant choice for learning and memory.
The balance of ingredients seems a little off. Still, it has properties that affect the fluidity of the thought process and information processing that can allow us to commit learned materials to both short and long-term memory.
Focus Factor improves memory, allowing us to access countless memories readily in the future. This is because it works on various levels using the combination of beneficial ingredients to create a genuine improvement in the functional abilities of the mind.
There are better nootropics, though, and Focus Factor would offer more if it contained a wider variety of natural nootropics like Ginkgo biloba extract, which is only found in the Focus Factor Extra Strength supplement.
Provides Nutrition For The Brain
According to scientific evidence, Focus Factor has many ingredients that help the brain stay healthy by providing ample nutrition. For example, DHA from fish oil and DMAE combine to keep the brain running healthy and properly.
The blend also promotes healthy neurotransmitter communication that can tell the brain to regulate specific processes that only work with ample nutrition.
The vitamin content ensures that the brain can communicate adequately and develop plasticity among neurons and cells. Some of them also allow the brain to work actively with the body for better optimization and connectivity.
Ingredients of Focus Factor
Focus Factor contains many natural herbs, nootropics, and other compounds, and each active component included in the ingredients is supposed to add something to the overall efficacy.
Proprietary Blend
A lot of the main ingredients of Focus Factor are contained as part of a proprietary mixture containing many beneficial natural herbs and compounds supposed to give the nootropic effects of the product.
Unfortunately, the problem is that the actual amounts of each ingredient are hidden. As a result, the label only offers the quantity of the entire proprietary blend instead of providing the exact dose for each component.
Let’s break down each ingredient and what it can potentially offer for the overall mixture.
One serving of Focus Factor contains 640 mg of the proprietary blend, combining all essential ingredients.
DMAE
Dimethylaminoethanol, or DMAE Bitartrate, is a naturally occurring substance found in the human body and fatty fish, a precursor to choline.
Choline boosts the synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine that is crucial to improving memory and learning ability.
L-Glutamine
L-glutamine is an amino acid precursor to neurotransmitters, primarily glutamate, and gamma-aminobutyric acid.
Clinical research shows that the effect of glutamate can boost synaptic connections for brain plasticity, and the impact on GABA can help with mood, stress, and anxiety (1).
Bacopin (Bacopa Monnieri Extract)
Bacopa monnieri is a conventional medicinal herb that can improve attention, boost memory recall, and reduce cognitive aging (2).
It is also beneficial for language ability, like verbal fluidity. It may even help reduce inflammation in the brain and might treat Alzheimer’s disease or dementia symptoms.
Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylserine is a kind of fat that helps to regulate brain cells and send brain signals for cognitive function.
It may also be beneficial for preventing cognitive decline because it can slow the deterioration of nerve cells.
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)
The docosahexaenoic acid concentrate is an essential Omega-3 fatty acid that is important for brain development and growth.
Not only that, but DHA extracted from fish oil can also prevent an excessive decline of mental cognition caused by age.
Finally, it may even help with focusing and attention span and might ease symptoms of ADHD.
Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)
GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter within the central nervous system that can help with stress levels and may even help to alleviate symptoms associated with anxiety.
In addition, gamma-aminobutyric acid influences some aspects of mental focus (3). The problem is that a GABA supplement does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier to offer those benefits to the neurotransmitter.
Vinpocetine
Vinpocetine is a synthetic derivative of an active alkaloidal compound from the periwinkle plant.
Some clinical studies suggest vinpocetine may help to improve your memory and help with brain health and recovery in stroke and dementia patients (4).
Inositol
Inositol is naturally found in the body, and it is a type of sugar produced from certain foods, specifically carbohydrates.
It influences hormones and neurotransmitters like dopamine or serotonin and may help reduce depression, improve emotional regulation, and restore chemical balance in the brain.
Bilberry Fruit Standardized Extract
Bilberry extract contains an abundance of anthocyanins, antioxidants that can prevent oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
In addition, one clinical study found evidence that it may improve cell and neuron signaling and fight neuroinflammation (5).
N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine
N-acetyl l-tyrosine is an amino acid and precursor to many neurotransmitters like epinephrine and dopamine that influence energy, emotional regulation, and cognitive mental performance.
This is especially true during conditions that increase stress levels and can help to limit distraction caused by over-thinking and worry.
Grape Skin and Seed Extract
Grape seed extracts and skin contain high antioxidants and can help prevent brain injury or age-related decline of cognitive function.
In addition, this ingredient can also inhibit the formation of compounds that are found in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Huperzine A (Extract of Hupezia Serrata)
This extract is made from Huperzine Serrata aerial parts, and it is a Chinese herb that is commonly used to treat Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Huperzine A also positively affects mental activity level, improves memory, concentration, and focus.
Boron
Boron citrate is a mineral found in many fresh foods, but an inadequate diet can cause low intake, which correlates with overall brain function impairments.
It is necessary for working memory, focus, motor skills, and dexterity.
Vanadium
Vanadium is a chemical found in seawater that has antioxidant properties and a significant impact on the speed of cell growth, particularly after brain ischemia.
It can also help ease symptoms associated with various physical ailments like diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease.
Vitamins A, C, D, E
Focus Factor combines a nootropic mixture with a multivitamin and contains a blend of essential nutrients that can benefit the brain and body. For example, vitamin C and E can prevent aging and boost cognition.
Vitamin E is also good for the immune system and can help you get a better night’s sleep by improving your breathing quality. Vitamin C is good for immune system functions and essential for various systems in the body (6).
Vitamin D deficiency can contribute to insomnia and other sleep problems. Also, it is essential for bone health and provides several other physical benefits.
Vitamin A can help with immune response and various other physical issues and is known for being good for eyesight and health of vision.
A single dose of Focus Factor contains 1,200 mcg Vitamin A, 250 mg Vitamin C, 2.5 mcg Vitamin D, and 20.1 mg Vitamin E.
B-Complex Vitamins
Focus Factor provides users with many B vitamins for overall health that synergize with brain health supplements for complete results.
B1 (Thiamin), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), and other B nutrients are essential for a plethora of critical bodily mechanisms.
These vitamins are beneficial for the health of cells in the brain and body, including red blood cells, vital for proper immune function.
In addition, these macronutrients can also provide you a boost in natural energy, optimal brain health, regulate appetite and digestion.
One of the most critical functions of these nutrients is related to metabolism, especially concerning glucose molecules. This will offer nutrition for the brain and could help influence mental health and various cognitive aspects of the mind.
Each serving includes 3 mg Thiamin, 1.7 mg Riboflavin, 25 mg Niacin, 15 mg Vitamin B6, 665 mcg Folate, 12 mg pantothenic acid, 300 mcg Biotin, and 20 mcg Vitamin B12.
Minerals and Trace Elements
For the body and brain to function correctly, humans require a steady intake of essential nutrients, including elements and minerals.
Furthermore, some people who don’t get proper nutrition solely from food must take some of the same nutrients found in the products made by Factor Nutrition Labs.
Sodium ascorbate, calcium ascorbate, and potassium ascorbate provide natural sources of important vitamins, specifically C.
In addition, deficiency in trace elements, like iron, can lead to fatigue, brain fog, weakness, insomnia, difficulty with focus, chills, headaches, nausea, and more.
Research shows that elements like magnesium silicate and zinc ascorbate correlate with cognitive performance.
The calcium citrate and calcium succinate included may improve the supplement’s effectiveness for bone, muscle health and help the vitamin D provide beneficial results.
However, having adequate amounts of these minerals and trace elements can positively affect and improve the effects of brain supplements included in Focus Factor Original.
Humans require an adequate amount of these minerals and trace elements, which can positively affect and improve the effects of brain supplements included in Focus Factor Original.
A single dose of Focus Factor contains 50 mg calcium, 5 mg iron, 15 mcg iodine, 100 mg magnesium, 10 mg zinc, 50 mcg selenium, 0.4 mg copper, 2 mg manganese, 100 mcg chromium, 10 mcg molybdenum, and 50 mg potassium.
Choline Bitartrate
As we mentioned earlier, choline is a prerequisite for good cognitive performance because it can influence neurotransmitters, primarily acetylcholine.
This brain supplement contains about 40% choline and can be good for blood pressure, cholesterol, liver health, and better memory.
It is important to note that while choline is a principal factor to improve memory, this form of supplement does not do much to support greater choline levels because of the inability to cross the blood-brain barrier in abundant quantities.
Still, it may help to boost some effects of the other supplements found in Focus Factor Original.
According to our review, the formula provides 30 mg of choline bitartrate in each serving.
How To Take Focus Factor Supplement?
You must follow proper dosing guidelines and company suggestions for taking the supplemental product for safety and advised effects.
It is best to take the supplement during the morning to obtain possible effects throughout the day that will wane into the evening hours. It is also best to take it with food to reduce the possible side effects.
Dosage
The recommended dosage to take Focus Factor is incredibly high compared with some competitors.
The dosage consists of four tablets per day, but if you believe that is too little for you, then you can take additional tablets, up to eight tablets per day, to accommodate your body weight.
Focus Factor Reviews: What Do Users Say?
Customer reviews are generally positive, but very few of them have claims of substantial nootropic effects. Most of the Focus Factor reviews found it does work to provide subtle results.
Still, many customers noted in their reviews that they didn’t notice any difference and made a switch to a much more satisfying nootropic choice.
More than one review found that the product had the opposite effect than what they were hoping for. Instead of becoming energized, they became fatigued, had difficulty paying attention during work meetings, and completing tasks efficiently.
Many of the Focus Factor reviews agree with our conclusion that this product contains some exciting components, but it falls short compared to other alternatives.
Does Focus Factor Have Side Effects?
Focus Factor is safe for most people, but there are adverse effects to be aware of.
Some of the Focus Factor side effects may include headache, nausea, muscle aches, diarrhea, vomiting, fishy body odor, abdominal pain, and blood pressure fluctuations.
Some prescription medicines may increase the risk of Focus Factor side effects and the potential severity.
Pregnant women should avoid Focus Factor because of vinpocetine content, and also, people with diabetics should be careful because of the bilberry extract in the product.
Where To Buy Focus Factor?
You can buy Focus Factor from their official website or from various online and in-person retailers. In addition, the manufacturer’s website often has deals for those who wish to purchase multiple bottles.
Price
The cost for one bottle of Focus Factor is $14.99, which is quite reasonable and affordable. The price is still higher than we recommend you pay because of the limited beneficial effects.
Instead, you should use that money towards a superior nootropic product that you can combine with a solid multivitamin if you like that aspect of Focus Factor.
The cost comes out to about one dollar per serving for a single bottle from the Focus Factor website. However, if you order more bottles at once or larger bottles, the price can decrease to around $0.50 cents per daily serving.
Conclusion
Focus Factor Original by Factor Nutrition Labs is a popular nootropic option, but we don’t see why that is the case.
It contains some ingredients that we love, but in our opinion, the efficacy and benefits are lacking, and it seems like they do not include enough of most of the components to be beneficial.
Through our Focus Factor review, some of the other things we liked, including the affordable price, research-based ingredients, and limited side effects.
However, there are also negative aspects, as hidden ingredient amounts listed for most herbs and nootropics, extensive dosing instructions, and lacking results.
As a result, instead of wasting money, we suggest to check out Mind Lab Pro, as it includes adequate amounts of every ingredient that offer balanced, full-spectrum effects for your brain.
In addition, it gives a scientifically proven range of nootropic properties like attention, memory, focus, and the prevention of age-related decline in cognitive abilities.
Even if it is relatively cheap, Focus Factor doesn’t give you the edge on your brain performance. Instead, check the superior Mind Lab Pro, the best supplement for balanced but powerful and proven cognitive results.
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