TL;DR Alpha Brain vs Prevagen Summary
While Prevagen offers a unique jellyfish-derived ingredient, its controversies and limited formula raise concerns. Alpha Brain, backed by Onnit’s reputation and a broader ingredient list, seems a more promising choice. However, at $69.95 for a 45-day supply, its value is debatable. Though Alpha Brain edges out Prevagen, neither stands as the best market option for their price points.
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About the Supplements
Prevagen is a memory enhancement supplement developed by Quincy Bioscience. It is available in two strengths: regular (10mg) and extra strength (20mg). The company, based in Wisconsin, has faced controversy due to its marketing strategies, including misleading jellyfish commercials. Despite the legal challenges, Prevagen remains available in the market and is promoted as a supplement that offers increased clarity, enhanced memory, and healthy brain function.
On the other hand, Alpha Brain is a nootropic supplement designed to boost mood, focus, and cognitive sharpness. It has gained popularity, in part, due to endorsements from celebrities like Joe Rogan. Produced by Onnit, a company with a more favorable reputation than Quincy Bioscience, Alpha Brain is presented in black bottles with orange graphics, each containing 60 capsules. The recommended dosage is two capsules per day, aimed at maximizing concentration and productivity.
Ingredients
Prevagen:
- Vitamin D (50mcg): A fundamental health ingredient known for supporting bone strength and various brain and body functions. It’s most beneficial for those who are deficient.
- Apoaequorin (10mg or 20mg in the “Extra Strength” version): This is the famed jellyfish protein featured in Prevagen’s commercials. It’s believed to help remove calcium plaques from the brain and improve neuron signaling. However, its efficacy is still under debate, and it has not received FDA approval.
Alpha Brain:
- Vitamin B6 (10mg): Essential for healthy blood flow and converting food into energy.
- Onnit Blend (650mg): This includes L.Tyrosine, L.Theanine, Oat Straw Extracts, Phosphatidylserine, and Cat’s Claw Bark. L-Tyrosine, for instance, aids in the production of Dopamine, a neurotransmitter essential for neuromotor functions and overall well-being.
- Onnit Focus Blend (240mg): Comprises Alpha GPC, Bacopa Monnieri, and Toothed Clubmoss (Huperzine A). Alpha GPC is notable for its potential in supporting memory and other cognitive functions.
- Onnit Fuel Blend (60mg): Contains L-Leucine and Pterostilbene. L-Leucine is more commonly found in muscle-building supplements.
While Prevagen’s formula is straightforward with just two main ingredients, Alpha Brain boasts a broader ingredient list. However, the use of proprietary blends in Alpha Brain makes it challenging to determine the exact dosages of individual components, which can raise concerns about its safety and effectiveness.
Differences in Formulas
At a glance, the most evident difference between Prevagen and Alpha Brain is the complexity of their formulas. Prevagen keeps it simple with just two primary ingredients: Vitamin D and Apoaequorin. The latter, sourced from jellyfish, is the centerpiece of its marketing, though its actual benefits remain a topic of debate.
Alpha Brain, on the other hand, offers a more intricate blend of ingredients. It divides its components into three proprietary blends, each targeting a specific aspect of cognitive function. The Onnit Blend focuses on overall brain health, the Focus Blend aims to enhance concentration, and the Fuel Blend provides additional support for brain energy. However, the use of proprietary blends is a double-edged sword. While it allows Onnit to keep the exact dosages of each ingredient a secret, it also leaves consumers in the dark about what they’re ingesting in terms of individual ingredient amounts.
In essence, while Prevagen’s formula is straightforward and transparent, Alpha Brain provides a broader spectrum of ingredients but lacks transparency in dosages.
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Recommendations for Different People
Prevagen: Given its simple formula, Prevagen might be suitable for individuals looking for a basic supplement to support brain health, especially if they believe in the potential benefits of Apoaequorin. However, those with a Vitamin D deficiency might find the inclusion of this vitamin beneficial. It’s worth noting that anyone considering Prevagen should be aware of the controversies surrounding its marketing and the ongoing legal challenges.
Alpha Brain: This supplement is tailored for those seeking a comprehensive nootropic blend. With ingredients like L-Tyrosine and L-Theanine, it might appeal to individuals under stress or those wanting to enhance their focus. Additionally, fans of biohacking and performance optimization, given Onnit’s reputation in this community, might gravitate towards Alpha Brain. However, those who prefer transparency in ingredient dosages might be hesitant due to the proprietary blends.
Side Effects – Are There Any?
When diving into the world of nootropics, it’s natural for you to wonder about potential side effects. After all, we all want to boost our brainpower, but not at the cost of our overall well-being, right?
Prevagen: While Prevagen’s formula is relatively simple, there’s still a bit of uncertainty surrounding Apoaequorin. Some users have reported minor side effects, but these are relatively rare. However, it’s worth noting that the FDA hasn’t approved Apoaequorin for cognitive benefits. So, if you’re considering giving Prevagen a shot, it’s a good idea to start with a lower dose and see how your body reacts.
Alpha Brain: With its diverse ingredient list, Alpha Brain has a broader spectrum of potential side effects. Some users have mentioned experiencing headaches, dizziness, or digestive issues. The inclusion of Huperzine A can be a concern if taken in large amounts, but without knowing the exact dosage in Alpha Brain, it’s hard to gauge the risk. As always, we recommend starting slow. Take one capsule initially, monitor how you feel, and then adjust accordingly.
Pricing
We all want value for our hard-earned cash, and when it comes to nootropics, the price tag can sometimes be a deciding factor.
Prevagen: A month’s supply of Prevagen will set you back between $40 and $50, depending on the version you choose. While this might seem reasonable for a month-long supply, it’s essential to weigh the cost against the potential benefits, especially given the controversies surrounding its primary ingredient.
Alpha Brain: Priced at around $69.95 for a 90-count pack, Alpha Brain is on the pricier side. However, considering you’re getting a 45-day supply, it might be worth the investment, especially if you’re keen on its broader ingredient list. Plus, Onnit offers discounts for those who subscribe to their monthly plan, which can ease the strain on your wallet.
Final Thoughts
Prevagen, with its unique jellyfish-derived ingredient, certainly stands out in the crowd. But its controversies and the ongoing legal battles might give you pause. On the other hand, Alpha Brain, backed by a reputable company and endorsed by celebrities, offers a more comprehensive formula. However, the lack of transparency in ingredient dosages might be a concern for some.
So, what’s the verdict? Well, it boils down to what you’re looking for in a brain supplement. If you’re after a simple formula and are curious about the potential benefits of Apoaequorin, Prevagen might be worth a shot. But if you’re seeking a more holistic approach to cognitive enhancement, Alpha Brain could be up your alley.
Ultimately, neither one is the best on the market. We recommend doing more research because, for the prices that these supplements charge, you can find more effective nootropics out there.
What do we recommend?
-Click to See The Current Top 3 Highest-Ranked Brain Supplements-
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