Definitions

Definitions of common supplements terms

On this site, you would have encountered some of the often used terms, associated with supplements. Here are brief description for those terms, in alphabet order. Check Wikipedia for more information on any of these definitions.

Analogue (or Variant) - In chemistry, analogue is a structural derivative of a parent compound that often differs (varies) from it by a single element. It usually means that a particular compound is very similar to its parent compound. For example, Adrafinil is an earlier analogue to Modafinil - it means Adrafinil is very similar to Modafinil.

Antioxidants - Substances that protect and repair cells from free radicals damage. These are usually vitamins that we obtain from food, mostly fruit and vegetables, but also nuts and grains, and some meats, like fish and poultry. In essence, antioxidants prevent oxidative process, caused by oxygen. This oxidative process can lead to cell disfunction, which can then cause serious problems like heart disease and diabetes. Antioxidants improve immune system and reduce risk of infections. (See also Free Radicals definition, below)

Blood-Brain Barrier - The existence of the blood-brain barrier was first noticed by Paul Ehrlich in the 19th Century. Essentially the blood-brain barrier is a membranic structure that protects the brain from chemicals and other substances in the blood. Although this is designed as a protective mechanism for the brain, some of substances or compounds are able to cross this barrier, such as for example Melatonin and Picamilone, bringing about positive effects on the brain and the body.

Dopamine - A 'feel-good' hormone and neurotransmitter is a precursor (forerunner) of adrenaline. Neurotransmitters are chemicals used by the brain to communicate signals between neurons and other cells. Low levels of dopamine are related to Parkinsons disease. Dopamine is extracted from Dopa, which is used in treatment of Parkinsons. Smart drugs like Deprenyl (Selegiline) in particular increase levels of dopamine in the brain and is used as preventative for Alzheimers and Parkinsons diseases.

Free Radicals - Unstable molecules produced when the body breaks down food, or by enviromental exposures to tobacco smoke, pollution, herbicides and radiation. These unstable molecules usually have an odd electron, which then seeks to bond with other compounds in order to gain stability. This becaomes a chain reaction, causing cells damage and ultimately leading to health problems. Free radicals damage increases with age. Vitamins or antioxidants stop this damage by "adding" one of their own electrons to free radicals, thus stopping the damaging process. The best antioxidant vitamins are vitamins C and E. (See also Antioxidant definition, above)

GABA - GABA is short for 'gamma amino butyric acid'. It is the amino acid that acts as an inhibitory neutrotransmitter in the brain. Found in Picamilone and Piracetam. Increased amounts of GABA in the body produce relaxing, anti-anxiety effects. GABA is also believed to increase the amount of HGH - Human Growth Hormone.

Niacin - Also known as nicotinic acid, niacin is a water-soluble vitamin B3 (previously known as vitamin PP). This means it's easy absorbed, but not stored in the body. Niacin helps insulin regulate blood sugar levels (useful for diabetics) and lowers cholesterol. Severe niacin deficiency can cause pellagra - a vitamin deficiency disease.

Nootropic - Nootropic drugs or nootropics are what is known as congnitive enhancers. The term nootropic comes from Greek language and refers to substance that acts on or enhances the mind. According to Will Block, Nootropic or smart drugs can help to improve your intelligence, information processing ability, concentration, memory and creativity. Most of the smart supplements on this site fall into nootropics.