Coffee Alternative Boosts Mental Focus

Reprinted with kind permission of LifeExtension Sometimes you need a way to clear afternoon brain fog. Coffee can do the trick, but for many people, drinking coffee later in the day can interfere with sleep, upset the stomach, lead to a jittery feeling, and result in a later “crash.” There is an herbal alternative. Scientists have identified a unique spearmint extract that, like coffee, helps the brain focus. It even boosts short-term working memory. But it’s stimulant-free and won’t cause any of coffee’s common side effects. Available in a convenient, instant spearmint tea, this extract contains high levels of phenolics, health-promoting compounds found in plants, particularly rosmarinic acid. And this spearmint extract goes beyond offering a mental boost. A recent, clinical study demonstrated that it also enhances the ability to quickly initiate unplanned changes in direction or speed. This can help performance during exercise or sports, and lead to fewer falls in the elderly. Staying Mentally Sharp A majority of Americans are very concerned about staying mentally sharp. While many turn to coffee for a daily boost in focus, attention, and concentration, almost two-thirds of consumers report that they are trying to limit their caffeine intake. In fact, a whopping 64% of men and women in the U.S., and 74% of those over 55, drink coffee daily, in part for the short-term increase in focus it provides. Researchers recognized the need for a drink that enhances mental focus as quickly as coffee, while being free of caffeine and other stimulants. Role of Memory in Mental Focus Working memory is the part of short-term memory that stores information and allows it to be used even while you’re engaged in another mental task. It plays a crucial role in other cognitive abilities that include problem solving and decision making. If your […]

Click here to view full article