With so many new supplements being released every day, the brain supplement market is more crowded than ever before. But established products like BrainQuicken (also known as BodyQuick) still get a lot of attention from people who prefer proven formulas over newer supplements.
But can BrainQuicken still deliver on its promises? Can a product launched in 2001 even compete with some of the most popular brain supplements available now?
To uncover all the facts behind this nootropic’s claims, we dug deeper to analyze customer reviews, the core ingredients, benefits, potential adverse effects and interactions with prescriptions or other dietary supplements, best price, and more to help you make a documented decision whether this supplement is worth your time and money.
1) Quick Overview
BrainQuicken is a popular nootropic supplement claimed to be free of all harmful stimulants. The formula promises to improve productivity, attention & focus, reduce brain fog, enhance memory, and support overall cognitive performance.
BrainQuicken (aka BodyQuicke) was first launched in 2001, so it is one of the most established and well-known nootropic supplements on the market.
The original formulation was developed by the lifestyle guru Tim Ferris[1], who then sold the company for an undisclosed sum.
Today, after being subjected to many formulation changes, the nootropic is produced and sold by the US company Spring of Life.
2) The Company Behind BrainQuicken
BrainQuicken is now made by the US company Spring of Life[2].
This brain supplement is so popular today, mainly because it was initially started by Tim Ferriss, author of three best-selling books: The 4-Hour Body, The 4-Hour Workweek, and The 4-Hour Chef.
Besides BodyQuick, Spring of Life also makes several other popular products such as:
- Daily Energy Superfood
- Pure Probiotic
- Advanced Keto Formula
- Turmeric Curcumin with Bioperine 1500 mg
- Grass-Fed Whey Protein
- Premium Omega 3
- Gluco-Goal
How to contact Spring of Life company:
- Address: PO Box 29502 #94699, Las Vegas NV 89126
- Website: springoflife.co
- Phone: 1-888-789-2594
- Email: support@springoflifeusa.com
3) Details on BrainQuicken Ingredients and Uses
BrainQuicken includes the following ingredients:
- Paullinia 405 mg
- Vitamin B6 12.5 mg
- Niacinamide 10 mg
- Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) 500 mcg
- Folic Acid 200 mcg
- Alpha Lipoic Acid 15 mg
- Pantothenic Acid (Calcium pantothenate) 20 mg
- Proprietary Cognamine Complex (Choline Sinensis, USDA Organic Cordyceps, Choline Bitrate, L-Tyrosine, L-Glutamine, Phosphatidylserine, Ciwujia, Salix Alba, 2-Dimethylaminoethanol, Vinpocetine, Salisburia Adiantifolia, and Huperzine A) 805 mg
Other ingredients include dicalcium phosphate and hypromellose (vegetarian capsule).
Some of the ingredients found in BrainQuicken can also be found in other nootropics like Dynamic Brain and Wiselife Naturals Adderplex.
4) What Does BrainQuicken Do?
The formula has changed quite a few times since Tim Ferriss sold the company and the product he developed back in 2001[3].
The current BrainQuicken formula contains B-vitamins, Choline, L-Glutamine, Phosphatidylserine, Huperzine A, Vinpocetine, and several herbal extracts.
L-Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the bloodstream and makes up 30–35% of the amino acid nitrogen in your blood. L-Glutamine is a conditionally essential[4] amino acid because your body utilizes it in large amounts.
Recent clinical studies concluded that L-Glutamine might benefit[5] the body in many ways.
L-Glutamine is an essential amino acid for your health if you suffer from any type of digestive issue, such as an inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, diverticulosis, leaky gut, or any of the issues associated with leaky gut (like any type of autoimmune response, rosacea, or joint pain)[6].
L-Glutamine is a precursor to the neurotransmitter glutamate and an essential ingredient for overall cognitive health. A disturbance of the glutamate-glutamine cycle can result in all sorts of brain problems, including epilepsy, Reye’s Syndrome, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, and alcohol addiction[7].
L-Glutamine can also help stall brain aging. Mitochondrial dysfunction causes abnormal increases in the neurotransmitter glutamate and, again, puts the brain at risk for developing the above problems.
A research conducted at the New York University School of Medicine[8] revealed that even mild traumatic brain injury caused brain atrophy. Most of this damage was due to an abnormal increase in glutamate levels and the glutamate-glutamine cycle disruption.
BrainQuicken (aka BodyQuick) also contains Paullinia cupana (commonly known as Guarana). Paullinia is a plant native to northern Brazil and other regions of the Amazon. Believed to fight fatigue, boost mental alertness, and promote weight loss, Guarana is often found in popular energy drinks and sodas.
A 2018 study[9] of patients with chronic kidney disease and a 2011 study[10] of breast cancer patients undergoing systemic chemotherapy found that patients taking Guarana underwent significantly diminished fatigue than those taking a placebo.
Additionally, according to a review[11] published in 2018, Guarana extracts’ antioxidant effects have been observed in preclinical trials.
According to another study[12], oxidative stress shows promise as a potential biomarker for chronic fatigue syndrome.
A randomized, double-blind crossover study[13] assessed cognitive performance with a go/no-go task in 56 participants after ingesting either a caffeine supplement, a multivitamin/mineral mixture with 300 mg Guarana, or a placebo supplement.
It was found that responses were faster on the go/no-go task, without a change in accuracy, between 30 and 90 minutes after ingesting the Guarana preparation.
Another ingredient in BrainQuicken worth mentioning is L-Tyrosine.
L-Tyrosine is an amino acid the body produces from Phenylalanine (another type of amino acid). Found in many foods, including fish, meat, eggs, dairy, nuts, oats, and legumes, Tyrosine is available in dietary supplement form as well[14].
L-Tyrosine is essential to your body’s melanin production (a type of pigment) and several necessary brain chemicals, including dopamine and norepinephrine.
It also plays a vital role in the function of the pituitary, adrenal, and thyroid glands, which are involved in producing and regulating your hormones.
In alternative medicine, L-Tyrosine supplements are often touted as a natural remedy for a range of health problems, including:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Stroke
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Depression
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Parkinson’s disease
- Heart disease
- Stress
- Premenstrual syndrome
Alternative medicine advocates claim that L-Tyrosine supplements can also help promote weight loss, suppress appetite, improve memory, increase mental alertness, and improve athletic performance.
Some studies show the use of L-Tyrosine supplements may boost cognitive function under certain conditions.
A 2010 study[15] published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that L-Tyrosine supplementation led to significantly more significant improvements in alertness and focus after long exercise sessions.
The study included 19 healthy college students, each of whom was given either an L-Tyrosine supplement or a placebo for four weeks.
5) BrainQuicken Benefits & Results
Some BrainQuicken (aka BodyQuick) claimed benefits include:
- Supports athletic performance;
- Powerful neural accelerator;
- Ends brain fog;
- 100% guaranteed results in less than 30 minutes;
- Increases processing speed and improves the clarity of thought;
- Boost brains activities;
- Meet the United States Pharmacopeia quality standards;
- It does not contain dangerous stimulants;
- 60 days 100% Money back guarantee.
6) Potential BrainQuicken Effects
BrainQuicken (aka BodyQuick) is advertised as a safe-to-take nootropic with no potentially dangerous adverse effects. However, as with all dietary supplements, some users may experience mild side effects after taking the product.
Most of these side effects can be linked to the ingredients used in the formula.
For instance, side effects of L-Tyrosine[16] include:
- Nausea
- Heartburn
- Headaches
- Joint pain
- Tiredness
Though rare, allergic reactions to L-Tyrosine may also occur.
Guarana is a caffeine-rich plant and a potentially dangerous stimulant, especially since the precise amount is not documented on the label.
Adverse effects[17][18] can include those common to many stimulants:
- Increased heart rate
- Stomach irritation
- Nervousness/agitation
- Increased blood pressure
Huperzine A is likely SAFE for adults when taken for less than six months. Taking high amounts of Huperzine A or using Huperzine A supplements for more than six months may cause some adverse effects[19], including:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Vomiting
- Sweating
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Blurred vision
- Fainting
- Slurred speech
- Restlessness
- Cramping
- High blood pressure
- Inability to control urination
- Inability to sleep
- Dizziness
- Slowed heart rate
However, what concerns us the most is the potential side effects of Ciwujia (Siberian ginseng, Eleutherococcus senticosus). According to Medical News Today[20], this plant extract has been linked to more than 13 serious adverse effects, including:
- Raised or lowered blood pressure
- Headache
- Muscle spasms
- Aggressiveness
- Confusion
- Nervousness
- Diarrhea
- Skin rashes
- Increased or reduced blood sugar levels
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Nausea
- Hormone changes, especially of cortisol
- Cramping
7) Precautions of BrainQuicken Use
BrainQuicken contains L-Tyrosine that may interact with specific prescriptions:
- Thyroid medication such as Synthroid or Levothroid;
- MAOI inhibitors, such as the depression medications Selegiline (Zelapar and Eldepryl), Rasagiline (Azilect), Phenelzine (Nardil), Isocarboxazid (Marplan), and Tranylcypromine (Parnate).
Vinpocetine is another herbal extract that may interact with specific prescriptions, especially with medications that slow blood clotting:
- Clopidogrel (Plavix)
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
- Diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren)
- Dalteparin (Fragmin)
- Naproxen (Naprosyn, Anaprox)
- Heparin
- Enoxaparin (Lovenox)
- Warfarin (Coumadin)
8) Where to Buy BrainQuicken
BrainQuicken (aka BodyQuick) is only available for purchase through the official Spring of Life website and several online retailers like Amazon or eBay.
This nootropic supplement is not available in local stores or supermarkets.
9) How Much Does BrainQuicken Cost?
The nootropic is priced at $29.95 for a monthly supply of 60 capsules. A double-bottle of 120 capsules is also available for $59.95 with a subscription.
10) BrainQuicken Directions
The official Spring of Life website recommends taking it as recommended by a medical doctor or 1-2 capsules daily, with food. Start with one capsule to assess your body tolerance.
11) What Users Are Saying
"I, too, had been a regular customer of spring of life for this particular product. It is wonderful for focus! However, I refuse to pay double the price I have been paying. We just don't have that kind of money to pay per month for a bottle. Sad and disappointed." [Read full review]
---Singin Stylista
"I have ADD, which is fun because I forget stuff all the time and have trouble focusing. While this isn't the whole solution, it helped me keep track of things better and memory recall. Highly recommend this, plus it's not expensive, so if you don't like it, your investment is minimal." [Read full review]
---Joshua Morris
"I have been using this since it was being sold and marketed by Tim Ferris. This is the best "bang for the buck" supplement I have found for enhancing my reflexes. I get a trackable, measurable boost from this product on a reliable basis every time I use it. So glad Spring of Life is continuing to market Brainquicken, with the same excellent quality standards as the original." [Read full review]
---Peter Cyngot
12) Our Bottom Line
BrainQuicken (aka BodyQuick) is advertised as a “pharmaceutical grade cognitive and neural support complex” that alleges to enhance mental performance without any dangerous stimulants. The nootropic claims to rely entirely on the traditional herbal approach for optimal brain performance.
It is also worth mentioning that BrainQuicken’s formula was improved many times over the past decade. The current formulation includes lots of new ingredients, and it doesn’t resemble Tim Ferris’ original BrainQuicken in almost any way. Interestingly, the constant changes in ingredients are what made some BrainQuicken users unhappy with the product.
This new and improved formulation contains several proven ingredients for cognitive health, but it also contains herbal extracts that have been associated with mild to moderate side effects in some users.
Overall, BrainQuicken (aka BodyQuick) is an interesting brain supplement. Many of its ingredients have been thoroughly researched and proven to support brain health in various ways. While more research may still be needed (especially when it comes to some of the herbal extracts), the formula looks solid and it may be a good option for those looking for a natural brain supplement with a proven track record.
I got this about a month ago and so far i like it. It does work better than coffee and keeps me more even. I do notice a couple side effects like urine color being darker than usual. Hydration has seemed to fix that problem. I’ll update my review after another month or so.
If the product truly worked it would be approved by the FDA and it would be mass marketed. The fact that it’s not says enough.
Can you not be so repetitive, we got it the first time when you said its changed 27 times and it has vitamins in it. People don’t like wasting their time reading the same things over and over again.
they only mention it twice from what i can see which i dont think counts as repetitive. looks like you are baised to brainquicken. i am to but on the other side, these people screwed me over pretty hard on their money-back garantee what a laugh. buyer beware
The first day I tried this I didn’t notice a difference, but the second day and for the last 4 months of taking it, there has been a HUGE difference in the amount of energy I have and my ability to concentrate while studying. I’m sorry to hear that it wasn’t as helpful for some of you.
I think some people don’t know the proper timing or dosage. But I definitely noticed a difference. I used it twice and I was sold. I bought two bottles. I have another friend who uses it and we went from being pretty good to the highest grades on tests. I realize there are tons of factors that come in to play. But the substantial difference I noticed would be a result of taking this product. Tim Ferris designed this product who is pretty much a certified genius. And in the article above it says that the product has been changed 27 times in 6 years….. So? If they found out little improvements along the way why not change it some? I don’t find that shady. And not to mention you didn’t even specify what changed exactly. The management? The location of the supplier? The formula of the supplement? Be more specific please.
Looking at the ingredients which contain l-tyrosine and vinpocetine, it should increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the blood and should increase blood supply to the brain. I could imagine it having a temporary effect and could be a useful pick-me-up. What worries me from looking at the ingredients is that it doesn’t give specific amounts of each nutrient for the “cognamine” formula. Therefore, it’s difficult to figure out what you’re getting and what effect it’s likely to have. I suspect this might have a short term energising effect on a healthy brain but it’s not something that should be used to treat an attention disorder.