Nootropics. This fancy-sounding word has been getting more attention as people look for ways to improve their cognitive performance and combat mental fatigue.
Whether it’s college students tackling finals, employees prepping for that big presentation or life just life-ing, the need is real. 84% of adults report being distracted at work1 and 60% of U.S. workers across all industries are experiencing some level of burnout.2 (We get it.)
The good news: nootropics have entered the chat.
The Goods Inside
- Many of us struggle with distraction, focus and attention
- Nootropics support cognitive performance and healthy brain function*
- OLLY's new collection puts a delightful spin on taking them
We're discovering new ways to bring them into our self-care routine.
So what are they exactly?
Nootropics are ingredients and supplements that enhance cognitive performance and support healthy brain function. They work to support mental functions like memory, creativity, focus, motivation and attention.3 (In other words, your to-do list says thank you.)
Nootropics come in many forms including pills, gummies, skin patches, food and beverages. And while nootropics have recently been gaining more attention, most have been around for centuries. One of the most popular ones: Caffeine. As you might have experienced today, this ubiquitous nootropic supports alertness and attention.4 Other common ones include L-Theanine, known for its calming effect,5 Ginseng, which helps support memory,6 and even Omega-3s.

How We Do Nootropics
Nootropics fit right into our wellness philosophy. We believe everyone should have easy, attainable access to their “in the zone” self as a key part of whole person wellness, which is both physical and mental health. So while nootropics might not be new, we’re discovering new ways to bring them into our self-care routines. Our goal: to make nootropics a truly delightful experience.
Some nootropics are meant to be taken daily for best results (like our Ultra Strength Brain softgels), while others are designed for right when you need ‘em. They all have one core thing in common: support for healthy brain function.*
The Latest Additions to Our Cognitive Health Line-Up
Our newest nootropics, Brainy Chews and Brainy L’OLLY Pops, include delicious options designed for a more acute response (within 30-60 minutes typically).

Focused Thinker
Thai Ginger helps you get it all done despite distractions and deadlines. * Think study sessions and endless meetings.
Chill Thinker
L-Theanine helps you keep a clear mind during high-pressure moments like first dates and job interviews.*
Energized
70 mg of Caffeine (a bit more than a shot of espresso) helps with things like the midday slump and all-nighters.*
And we didn’t forget the kiddos. Brainy L’OLLY Pops are made for age 4 and up. They look like lollipops, but they’re actually kids’ cognitive supplements.

Focus Buddies
Cognizin® supports focused attention.* Think homework and study sessions.
Mellow Buddies
L-Theanine and Choline support a calm mood.* Think plane rides and appointments.
There are a few best practices to keep in mind when browsing for nootropics. Make sure you’re choosing ones with scientifically-backed ingredients and ideally no synthetic colors or flavors (OLLY has you covered on both counts here). Also if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or concerned about potential allergies, consult with a medical professional.
References:
1 Lindner, Jannik. (2024, July 17). Workplace Distractions Statistics: How Distractions Are Costing. Retrieved October 2024. Businesses Billions https://gitnux.org/workplace-distractions-statistics/ - New Window
2 (2024, Feb 5). Are Your Employees Burned Out? Ways for Executives to Fight Workplace Fatigue. Retrieved October 2024. https://usccg.com/blog/are-your-employees-burned-out-ways-for-executives-to-fight-workplace-fatigue/#:~:text=Ways%20for%20Executives%20to%20Fight%20Workplace%20Fatigue,-February%205%2C%202024&text=If%20you%20suspect%20your%20employees,experiencing%20some%20level%20of%20burnou - New Window
3 Matej, Malik and Tlustos, Pavel. (2022, August). Nootropics as Cognitive Enhancers: Types, Dosage and Side Effects of Smart Drugs. Retrieved October 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9415189/New Window
4 McLellan, Tom and Caldwell, John. (2016, December. A review of caffeine's effects on cognitive, physical and occupational performance. Retrieved October 2024. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27612937/ - New Window>