Ingredients for Brain Performance
The best ingredients for the brain on the planet all in one 2oz beverage.
A functional mushroom with a centuries-long history in traditional medicine, now validated by modern neuroscience. Lion’s Mane contains bioactive compounds called hericenones and erinacines that stimulate the production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) — a protein essential for the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons. Erinacines are among the few natural compounds shown to cross the blood-brain barrier, where they promote neurogenesis, support synaptic plasticity, and protect against neurodegenerative damage. For athletes, Lion’s Mane supports the brain’s ability to build, repair, and adapt at the cellular level.
Supporting Research
Curcumin, the primary active compound in turmeric, is one of the most studied natural neuroprotective agents in the world. It is a potent antioxidant that crosses the blood-brain barrier, where it reduces neuroinflammation by suppressing NF-κB signaling, scavenges reactive oxygen species to combat oxidative stress, and activates the Nrf2 pathway to boost endogenous antioxidant defenses. Research also shows curcumin stimulates Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) expression and promotes neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity. In the context of head impacts and physical stress, curcumin helps protect neural pathways from the cumulative damage of everyday oxidative and inflammatory insults.
Supporting Research
Citicoline is a naturally occurring compound and the most brain-bioavailable form of choline available. Once absorbed, it breaks down into cytidine and choline — two precursors the brain uses to build phosphatidylcholine, a major structural component of neuronal cell membranes. Citicoline also supports acetylcholine synthesis, the neurotransmitter most directly linked to memory formation, learning, and focused attention. Beyond structural support, citicoline has been shown to increase SIRT1 protein expression in the brain, which is linked to neuroprotection and healthy brain aging. It fuels the brain’s hardware — the membranes, the signaling, the energy.
Supporting Research
2. Role of Citicoline in Patients With Mild Cognitive Impairment
CoQ10 is a critical component of the mitochondrial electron transport chain — the engine that produces ATP, the energy currency of every cell. The brain consumes roughly 20% of the body’s total energy despite being only 2% of body mass, making mitochondrial efficiency essential for cognitive performance. CoQ10 serves dual roles: as an electron carrier that fuels ATP production, and as a lipid-soluble antioxidant that protects neuronal membranes from oxidative damage. As CoQ10 levels naturally decline with age and physical stress, supplementation helps maintain the energy supply and oxidative defense that high-performing brains demand.
Supporting Research
1. CoQ10 and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Alzheimer’s Disease
Vitamins B6 and B12 are essential cofactors in the synthesis of nearly every major neurotransmitter. B6 (pyridoxal-5’-phosphate) is required for the production of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and GABA — the neurotransmitters that regulate mood, focus, motivation, and stress response. B12 (cobalamin) is critical for myelin synthesis, which insulates nerve fibers and enables fast signal transmission, as well as acetylcholine production for memory. Together, they also regulate homocysteine metabolism — elevated homocysteine is linked to brain atrophy, oxidative stress, and accelerated cognitive decline. These aren’t nice-to-haves. They’re foundational infrastructure for how your brain communicates.
Supporting Research
1. Vitamin B6, B9, and B12 Intakes and Cognitive Performance in Elders
2. High-dose Vitamin B6 supplementation reduces anxiety and strengthens visual surround suppression
Brain Performance Shot
STATE Brain Strength - Berry Smooth
Berry Smooth · 2 fl oz
Clinically dosed brain nutrition for contact-sport athletes. 6 research-backed ingredients including LIPINOVA® Omega-3, Citicoline, Turmeric, Lion's Mane, and CoQ10.