Brain Bright Reviews

Gingko biloba (240 mg of extract standardized to 24% glycosides, 6% lactones, and < 1 ppm ginkgolic acid) – Although this amount and type of extract is in-line with those used in some clinical studies for cognitive function, some experts have concluded there is little evidence that gingko improves cognitive function. The Brain Bright claim of “second-to-none long term brain health (by shielding the brain from toxins)” appears to be based on laboratory and animals studies demonstrating the antioxidant activity of ginkgo glycosides. However, we are not aware of any studies demonstrating long-term brain health benefits based on gingko’s antioxidant properties.

What is Brain Bright and can it really improve memory or cognition?

Brain Bright (BioTrust Nutrition) is promoted on the company’s website as a “science-backed” “triple-action brain enhancement formula” which promises to provide: 1) greatly improved memory and recall, 2) immediate concentration and razor-sharp focus and 3) second-to-none long-term brain health (by shielding the brain from toxins).

Evidence:

While the ingredients (and the amounts of these ingredients) in Brain Bright are each supported by some research suggesting a potential benefit, there are no published clinical studies on the effects of these ingredients when combined.

The claims made on the website appear to be based on an unpublished study, along with studies by others on the different ingredients listed in the product.

BioTrust provided ConsumerLab.com with a summary of the unpublished clinical trial. It involved 29 healthy adults between the ages of 19 and 68 (average age not given). It found that 2 tablets of Brain Bright taken daily for one week appeared to slightly reduce the number of mistakes on a test of concentration and short-term memory (approximately 1 mistake vs. 2.5 mistakes, respectively), but did not improve reaction time, processing speed or attention, compared to placebo. However, as data was not provided and the study results did not undergo peer-review for publication, it’s difficult to draw any meaningful conclusions. In addition, no information about adverse effects was included.

Here is the evidence for each of the key ingredients in Brain Bright based on studies of the individual ingredients. You can use the links to get more information about each ingredient on ConsumerLab.com. Also shown is the amount of each ingredient listed in the suggested daily serving size of 2 tablets:

B Vitamins (riboflavin (8 mg), B-6 (20 mg), folate (as folic acid) (800 mcg), B-12 (methylcobalamin) (500 mcg) – The same doses of B-6, folic acid, and B-12, taken together, were found in one clinical study to slow cognitive decline in people age 70 years or older with mild cognitive impairment (riboflavin, however, was not used in the study).

Rhodiola rosea (200 mg root extract standardized to 5% rosavins and 2% salidrosides) – Doses in this range have shown some efficacy for improving certain measures memory and mental fatigue in a few small studies. However, overall, due to contradictory findings and design flaws in the studies, some researchers concluded there is insufficient evidence for this use.

N-acetyl-L-tyrosine (500 mg) – N-acetyl-L-tyrosine is converted into the amino acid tyrosine in the body. Although a few, small studies suggest tyrosine may improve memory or mental function in people who are sleep deprived or exposed to other forms of stress, it should be noted that these studies used higher doses of L-tyrosine (2,000 mg to 15,000 mg). In addition, it’s not clear how much N-acetyl-L-tyrosine is actually converted into tyrosine in the body (Magnusson, Metabolism 1989; Van Goudoever, J Parenter Enteral Nutr 1994).

Acetyl-L-carnitine (500 mg) – There is some evidence that acetyl-L-carnitine may provide some help for age-related memory impairment, however, typically at a higher dosage (1,500 to 2,000 mg).

L-theanine (100 mg) – There is evidence that taking 50 mg of this amino acid (which is also found in black and green tea) may increase alpha brain wave activity, which plays an important role in attention, within less than an hour of taking. This research may be part of the basis for the claim that Brain Bright promise of “immediate concentration.”

Brain Bright also contains 5 mg of black pepper extract (BioPerine), an ingredient which is sometimes added to supplements to enhance the bioavailability of certain ingredients.

Safety:

It’s important to note that the directions for use state: “Take 1 tablet 2 times daily, preferably without food, or, for enhanced concentration take 2 tablets as needed. Do not exceed 6 tablets per day.” Taking the maximum recommended dosage of 6 tablets would provide three times the dosages of each ingredient as listed above. There are risks associated with taking such high doses of some of these ingredients, including vitamin B-6, B-12 and folic acid. Furthermore, there are no published studies on the safety of taking all of these ingredients together. For example, both Ginkgo biloba and Rhodiola may lower blood sugar, and both Rhodiola and L-theanine may lower blood pressure.

There are also potential interactions with medications for some of these ingredients. More information about potential side-effects and drug interactions for each ingredient can be found in the “Concerns and Cautions” sections of ConsumerLab.com’s product reviews, which you can find by clicking on the above links to each review.

ConsumerLab.com has not tested Brain Bright to determine whether this product contains what it claims, and without contaminants.

Cost:

Brain Bright costs $49 for a bottle containing 60 tablets – a 30 day supply if you take the recommended 2 per day. The website claims there is a one-year money back guarantee and you will not be enrolled in an auto-delivery program.

The bottom line:

Brain Bright contains several ingredients in doses which some small studies suggest may help to improve memory and cognition. However, there are no published clinical studies showing that these ingredients are safe or effective when taken together as in the Brain Bright formula. Furthermore, the overall evidence for two of its main ingredients, ginkgo and rhodiola, is currently considered insufficient for memory and cognition, and the evidence for the other ingredients is quite preliminary.

It is also a highly effective way to keep stress levels at bay. The physical benefits of working out generally mean that Baby Boomers and other adults who exercise often have better self-esteem. And, those who engage in regular exercise often report greater levels of general positivity about themselves and their lives.

ABSOLUTE FOCUS

Absolute Focus is a cognitive enhancing nootropic supplement that helps improve your brains’ ability to concentrate and process information.

Absolute Focus was developed to be taken regularly, even daily, by those who want a mental edge to keep them sharp, focused and productive.

Absolute Focus promotes:

Focus & Alertness without jitters
Heightened energy and drive
Enhanced Cognition and problem-solving skills
Improved Memory recall

– There are better, more potent formulas compared to Brain Bright
– May not work for everyone

BioTrust Brain Bright Review: Good Ingredients For A Good Price

Brain Bright by BioTrust is a “triple-action” brain-boosting supplement that aims to improve focus, memory and overall cognitive wellbeing. Their company believes that due to the toxins and electromagnetic radiation that we are exposed to on a daily basis, people should now more than ever before take the time to invest in a good, brain-enhancing supplement. What we love most about BioTrust is that they make sure to list all the ingredients in their products and provide explanations as to how each of them work. All the information could be found and accessed easily on their official website. This shows us that BioTrust is truly concerned about customer satisfaction.

Marketing Practices of Brain Bright

BioTrust uses a very smart and skillful manner of writing on their website in attempt to sell their products. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that and we are in fact quite impressed with the amount of knowledge that they have about their products’ formulation.

Ingredients:

Here’s Brain Bright’s full supplement facts label:

As we look through the formulation together, we can see that there are both brain and energy boosting ingredients listed. Let’s start with the 500 mg of Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR), which will not only work to help reduce overall fatigue but can also provide higher levels of mental clarity. Personally, ALCAR is one of our favorite focus-inducing ingredients available because it’s incomparable effectiveness. For all you fitness junkies out there you’ll also be happy to hear that ALCAR has been shown to help with weight loss.

Next we have 100 mg of L-Theanine, also one of our top picks. It contains soothing properties that reduce anxiety, which helps to improve overall mood and mental energy levels. The brain becomes much more focused and relaxed, when we decrease the anxiety and stress laid upon it.

We also see 240 mg of one of America’s best-selling ingredients in the mix – Ginkgo Biloba. Ginkgo has been shown to improve overall cognitive function, particularly in regard to memory and concentration. If you have interest in improving mental abilities but don’t know where to start, Ginkgo can have your back.

Pro’s and Con’s:

Pro’s:

– Contains good nootropics such as L-Theanine and Ginkgo Biloba
– May help with focus and memory

Con’s:

– There are better, more potent formulas compared to Brain Bright
– May not work for everyone

Cost and Summary of Brain Bright

Brain Bright by BioTrust is a good brain-boosting supplement that may work for you to help with memory and focus issues. The world is moving fast and it’s not waiting around for anyone. The smart decision would be to get yourself a cognitive supporting daily supplement to ensure that your mental edge stays intact. Brain Bright does contain valuable nootropic ingredients such as L-Theanine and Ginkgo Biloba. This immediately makes it a recommended-buy, particularly for those who are newbies in this business. The price of the product is $48.00/month, which is quite a bargain considering the precision and quality of the formula.

Total Score: 72%

The feedback form on this page can be used to report content that is not accurate, up-to-date or questionable in any manner.

These are big capsules which may be hard to swallow.
This is an expensive supplement.
The ingredients could be dangerous to children if ingested.

Q: How should you take BioTrust Brain Bright?

A: The recommended dosage for Brain Bright is one tablet twice a day before meals, or as directed by your healthcare provider.

Q: How much does BioTrust Brain Bright cost?

A: On the manufacturer’s website, there are a few purchase options.

1 bottle is $49
3 bottles is $44/each
6 bottles is $39/each

The product can also be purchased on third-party websites and is similarly priced.

Q: What is BioTrust Brain Bright’s return policy?

A: The manufacturer has a 60-day money-back guarantee. If you’re dissatisfied with the product for any reason, send back the remainder with your receipt within 60 days of the original purchase date. You’ll get your refund, minus the shipping fees. The manufacturer also has a 365-day exchange policy.

*All individuals are unique. Your results can and will vary.

Q: Does BioTrust Brain Bright offer a free trial?

A: No, the company isn’t offering a free trial of the product at the moment.

If you want to try this supplement, you’ll have to buy it on the company website.

A study in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consumption of l-theanine led to an increase in mental alertness and attention.

The Science Behind Brain Bright

Brain Bright contains amino acids like acetyl l-carnitine, which enhance mental focus and energy by raising dopamine levels in the brain. This brain chemical is involved in learning, mood, motivation and could elevate all of them.

Other ingredients raise brain levels neurotransmitters like GABA, which may decrease stress and anxiety, and serotonin, which could elevate overall mood. An increase in the brain’s chemical acetylcholine might improve memory and cognitive functioning.

There are organic ingredients in this formula that dilate the blood vessels and improve circulation. The added blood flow to the brain improves mental alertness and general cognitive function.

Brain Bright is high in antioxidants, which work to destroy the free radicals in your system and lower oxidative stress. It may support general health and strengthen the immune system. The product also has BioPerine, which enhances the bioavailability of the ingredients.

1. There’s a reason this sales pitch is slick — they spend a lot of marketing money to get it to you. Who is paying for that? You are. And, like many scammers, they are using Clickbank to sell their ebook so don’t assume you’ll get a refund. “Rock solid guarantee”…..don’t bet on it.

BioTrust ‘Brain Bright’ Over-Priced Pills and Promises

They offer a “brain drain solution” that fixes your memory and mental sluggishness. Yes, the folks at BioTrust (based in Austin) are advertising “Brain Bright” – the pills that will help your brain function better. Now, there is quite a bit of medical science dispute as to whether pills largely made up of ginkgo and some amino acids will result in any benefits — brain or any other part of your body. Ginkgo is widely touted as a “brain herb” and while some studies show that it does help improve memory in people with dementia, there are no authoritative studies that link ginkgo to benefits in healthy people who have normal, age-related memory loss. In fact, an in-depth 2009 study published in JAMA found no benefits from ginkgo.

Here’s the truth that Brain Bright doesn’t want you to know: Brain supplements don’t work. That’s right. Repeated scientific studies have demonstrated that nutritional supplements just don’t deliver. Most recently, a study funded by AARP found that even though antioxidants in food is beneficial, antioxidants in pill form simply don’t offer the same benefits. In fact, a number of scientific studies have been unable to show that antioxidants given in pill form improve or protect memory from declining with age or brain disease.

Why Brain Bright Is A Scam

In actuality, this product is not likely to provide any of the benefits touted. Like so many of the “brain boosting” products peddled on the Internet, you are treated to slick videos, slicker webpages full of scientific sounding terms and, in many cases, a medical doctor who is recommending the product. But most of these kinds of products are rip-offs and infoscams that have infected the Web over the last three years.

BioTrust’s claim looks familiar, it probably is — it is almost identical to the questionable other brain health offerings also hawked on the Internet — and it was probably conjured up by the same marketers. They almost all charge the mysterious $40-50. Here’s how it works: you are treated to a videomercial that touts the “proven way to perfect improve your brain”. Is it a scam? Is it a rip-off? Does it work? You’ll never find out, largely because of an increasingly pernicious Internet industry that uses fake product review sites to hide customer reactions. You’ll also never be able to find out about the credentials of “Dr. Ettinger” — none apparently exist on the Internet, nor are they provided at the BioTrust own alleged web site. So, should you spend the $40-50 each month for Brain Bright? We recommend not, for the following reasons:

2. If you look for a review of the product, you are deluged with lots of fake review or “scam” sites that simply direct you to the main sales site or offer some pablum talking about how the product is highly rated or recommended. (such as abnewswire.com, memoryhealerpro.com, scamreviewsplace.com and ncsafeharbor.org) The marketers for this service paid to have these fake sites thwart any customer looking for real reviews. It is also a tactic to obscure any customers who have posted complaints or alerts about fraudulent claims.

3. The medical doctor touting the Brain Bright product is unknown. Yes, there are doctors named Mark Ettinger, but none of them specialize in brain health, none have published any studies or medical journal articles on brain health and, in fact, Dr. Ettinger isn’t even listed at the BioTrust website as a scientific advisor.

4. One additional warning: once you give them your money, you’ll be tagged as “meat”. Once they know that you’ll fall for this pitch, the same marketers will be coming back to you over and over and over for other such pitches. So understand that if you pay these marketers anything….let alone $50…..they’ll continue to hound you with more slick schemes designed to prey on your fears and concerns. Our advice: don’t open your door or wallet to them.

Why Brain Bright Is Horribly Overpriced

The price that BioTrust is charging for its Brain Bright pills is prohibitively high — 4 or 5 times what it would cost to buy the same supplements from well-regarded and safe supplement retailers, like Vitacost. To provide it, we shopped for the primary ingredients list in Brain Bright. BioTrust is offering 30 servings (60 pills) per bottle for $40-50 each month. Compare this to the price table on the left culled from Vitacost.com.

VITACOST BRAIN BRIGHT

Vitamin B-12	$ 4.19	100 capsules
Ginkgo Biloba	$14.75	300 capsules
Rhodiola Rosea	$14.29	120 capsules
L-Tyrosine	$ 6.99	100 capsules
L-carnitine	$11.99	120 capsules
L-Theanine	$16.20	120 capsules
TOTAL PRICE	$68.41	4-5 months supply

We’ve shown that you don’t have to spend $40-$50 each month for supplements that, at Vitacost or other on-line merchants, will cost to get information about $13-17 per month. Moreover, for less than $30 per month, Vitacost sells its own NeuroPower that contains over 43 brain-boosting supplements including the B6, B12, Ginkgo and L-carnitine found in Brain Bright — except the Vitacost product has higher doses and far more ingredients. If you feel compelled to buy pills to help your brain, you can do it for 1/4 of the price charged by BioTrust.

Keep in mind, though, that the Food and Drug Administration recently cracked down on this brain-supplement market, sending warning letters or advisories to 17 companies selling about 60 supplements. The agency reiterated that current science does not support any marketing claim that food supplements can reverse any type of known dementia or cognitive impairments. Over the past five years, the agency has taken action against 40 other products making Alzheimer’s claims.

Low-Cost or Free Ways To Improve Your Brain Health

Perhaps most importantly, you don’t have to spend any money at all. There is an abundance of free or low-cost brain health information on the Internet. Amazon offers a number of ebooks that cost nothing and provide the kinds of well-established brain exercises that can help. And very reputable medical institutions such as Harvard and the Mayo Clinic offer free and documented information. Harvard, in particular, warns that excess weight,poor eating habits and lack of exercise are the major factors linked to brain disease. The Mayo Clinic suggests use of brain exercises, such as those offered by a number of legitimate Internet companies who offer FREE interactive brain exercises: Neuronation, Mind Games, Brain Matrix, as well as low-cost offerings by BrainHQ and Rosetta Stone.

As important, recent science suggests that some brain deterioration can be attenuated and, perhaps, reversed for far less than $50 per month. But the key steps needed are eliminating all simple carbohydrates from your diet, increasing consumption of fruit, vegetables and non-farmed fish, incorporation of yoga and meditation and daily supplements including vitamin D3, fish oil, coenzyme Q10, melatonin and for women to resume hormone therapy, if they had ended it. While the supplement part of this recommendation is somewhat controversial, the lifestyle changes are not; they promote healthfulness, which is an essential element in keeping the brain healthy. There is a plethora of free and peer-reviewed analysis, like this, on the web and new studies that are revealing more light into the causes and treatment of brain deterioration.