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Adaptogens vs. Nootropics: Key Differences
Adaptogens and nootropics are natural supplements that are gaining attention for improving mental wellbeing. While they may seem similar, they serve different purposes:
- Adaptogens: Help the body manage stress over time, promoting balance. Example: Ashwagandha.
- Nootropics: Boost brain function quickly, enhancing focus and clarity. Example: L-Theanine.
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Adaptogens | Nootropics |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Manage stress | Improve cognitive performance |
| Response Time | Gradual | Faster-acting |
| Key Benefits | Stress relief, relaxation | Focus, memory, mental clarity |
| Examples | Ashwagandha | L-Theanine, Lion's Mane |
| Best For | Long-term stress management | Immediate focus needs |
For a balanced approach, combining both may provide enhanced benefits, such as reduced stress and improved focus. Products like IMPOSSIBREW® Social Blend™ already use this combination effectively in non-alcoholic beverages.
Nootropics Vs. Adaptogens: What's the Difference? (2021)
Understanding Adaptogens
Adaptogens are herbs traditionally used to promote relaxation and help the body manage stress more effectively [1]. They have become a popular addition to wellness products aimed at supporting a natural stress response.
How Adaptogens Work
Adaptogens interact with the body’s stress response systems, helping to balance and support them through various mechanisms.
Main Types of Adaptogens
One well-known adaptogen is ashwagandha, a staple in Ayurvedic medicine, often associated with its calming effects [1]. This herb is a key ingredient in products like Social Blend™, which also features L-Theanine, plant extracts, and Vitamin B1 [1].
For instance, a study found that 71% of people reported feeling more relaxed after using Social Blend™ [1].
The use of adaptogens in wellness products continues to grow as more people seek natural options to manage stress.
Understanding Nootropics
Nootropics are substances designed to support brain function and improve mental performance. While adaptogens primarily target the body's stress response, nootropics are more focused on enhancing cognitive abilities like memory, concentration, and mental clarity.
How Nootropics Work
Nootropics work by influencing the brain's neural pathways in several ways:
- Improving blood flow to the brain
- Supporting neurotransmitter production
- Protecting brain cells from oxidative damage
- Enhancing neural connectivity
For instance, L-theanine is known to increase alpha brain wave activity, which promotes a calm yet alert mental state. It becomes even more effective when combined with other cognitive-supporting ingredients.
Main Types of Nootropics
Natural nootropics are derived from plants, mushrooms, and other natural sources. These compounds have been studied for their ability to support cognitive health. Below are some well-known examples:
| Nootropic | Primary Benefits | Typical Effects |
|---|---|---|
| L-theanine | Mental clarity, focus | Encourages relaxed alertness without fatigue |
| Lion's Mane Mushroom | Memory, concentration | Promotes brain health and neural growth |
| Bacopa Monnieri | Learning, memory | Supports faster information processing |
| Ginkgo Biloba | Brain circulation | Enhances oxygen delivery to brain cells |
These natural nootropics often work better when combined. For example, L-theanine pairs well with other cognitive compounds to enhance mental clarity, as seen in Social Blend™ [1].
Interest in natural nootropics is growing as more people seek evidence-backed ways to support mental performance and overall cognitive health. When choosing nootropics, it’s important to understand how each one works and how they align with personal cognitive goals.
This overview provides a foundation for comparing nootropics with adaptogens in the next section.
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Adaptogens vs. Nootropics: Main Differences
Although adaptogens and nootropics both aim to promote wellbeing, they operate in very different ways. Adaptogens gradually help the body manage stress and maintain balance, whereas nootropics often work quickly to encourage mental calm and focus.
The main difference lies in their effects. Adaptogens, like Ashwagandha, aid the body's natural stress response and help maintain equilibrium. On the other hand, nootropics, such as L-theanine, target neural pathways to enhance mental clarity and relaxation.
Studies suggest that combining these compounds can yield even better results. For example, research by IMPOSSIBREW® in collaboration with Dr Paul Chazot, a Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University, highlights how specific combinations of adaptogens and nootropics can amplify their benefits [1].
Comparison Table
| Aspect | Adaptogens | Nootropics |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Help with stress management and balance | Support calmness and mental focus |
| Response Time | Gradual, effects build over time | Often faster-acting |
| Key Benefits | - Stress relief | - Mental clarity and calm focus |
| Common Examples | - Ashwagandha | - L-theanine |
| Best Suited For | Long-term stress management | Immediate focus needs |
| Mechanism | Supports the body's stress response | Influences neural pathways |
This comparison highlights how each plays a unique role in supporting wellbeing.
When used together, adaptogens and nootropics can complement one another, offering a balanced approach to managing stress and improving focus. Research continues to show how these combinations can enhance overall cognitive health and balance [1].
Use in Drinks and Beverages
Adaptogens and nootropics are making their way into non-alcoholic drinks, offering targeted doses aimed at promoting relaxation, mental clarity, and a sense of well-being.
Benefits in Beverages
These ingredients work together to deliver specific effects:
| Benefit | Role of Adaptogens | Role of Nootropics |
|---|---|---|
| Relaxation | Helps manage stress | Encourages calm focus |
| Mental Clarity | Supports stress response | Boosts cognitive function |
| Social Appeal | Promotes balanced mood | Enhances social experiences |
These effects contribute to creating enjoyable and functional beverage options.
IMPOSSIBREW® Social Blend™
A prime example of this approach is IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™, which brings together adaptogens and nootropics in a unique alcohol-free formula. Developed in collaboration with Dr Paul Chazot, this blend is designed to offer the positive aspects of drinking without the downsides.
"IMPOSSIBREW® is brewed with Social Blend™, our proprietary alcohol‐alternative that uses our patent‐pending technology, designed to unwind. Formulated to replicate all of the things we like about drinking, while eliminating all of those that we don't." [1]
The blend includes key ingredients like L-Theanine, Ashwagandha Root, Vitamin B1, and select plant extracts. These components work together to reduce stress and support cognitive performance. This innovative approach has earned IMPOSSIBREW® Lager and Pale the title of the UK's best non-alcoholic beers at the 2023 World Beer Awards [1].
Conclusion
Key Differences Between Adaptogens and Nootropics
Adaptogens and nootropics serve different purposes, though they can work well together. Adaptogens are primarily used to help with stress management, while nootropics focus on boosting cognitive abilities. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Aspect | Adaptogens | Nootropics |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Manage stress | Improve cognitive function |
| Benefits | Encourage relaxation | Enhance focus and memory |
This comparison can help you decide which aligns better with your personal wellness needs.
How to Choose the Right One
When deciding between adaptogens and nootropics, it’s essential to consider your main goal - whether it's stress relief or improving mental performance. Here's a breakdown to guide your choice:
- Stress Relief: Adaptogens are a practical choice if you’re looking to build resilience and better handle daily stress.
- Cognitive Boost: If your priority is improving focus, memory, or overall mental clarity, nootropics are likely a better fit.
- Dual Benefits: For those who want both stress relief and enhanced mental clarity, a combination of the two may be the way to go.
"We exist because we believe in a world where social connection doesn't demand compromise." - IMPOSSIBREW® [1]
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What is IMPOSSIBREW®?
IMPOSSIBREW® is a pioneering non-alcoholic beer brand based in the UK that aims to create the world's most complete alcohol alternative using patent-pending technology.
Founded by Mark Wong in 2021 and working with some of the world's best professors, scientists and expert brewers, IMPOSSIBREW® specialises in expertly crafted non-alcoholic beers designed to match full ABV beers in both taste and feeling.
Product Range
IMPOSSIBREW® offers a range of enhanced non-alcoholic beers, including:
- Enhanced Lager (0.5% ABV)
- Enhanced Pale Ale (0.5% ABV)
- Limited Editions (Seasonal)
Key Benefits
The key feature that sets IMPOSSIBREW® apart is its proprietary "Social Blend™" - a combination of active botanical ingredients and nootropics using patent-pending technology* designed to recreate the relaxing effects of alcohol without the negative side effects.
Along with record-breaking quality flavour that comes from a unique process without removing alcohol.
Social Blend™ Ingredients
Developed with leading scientists in top UK universities, Social Blend™ includes:
- L-Theanine
- Ashwaghanda
- Soluble Plant Fibres
- Vitamin B1
- Various Plant Extracts.
These ingredients are chosen for their potential to boost serotonin, promote relaxation, and create a calming effect similar to the "one or two pint feeling" without hangovers.
See more details on our very own research paper, with over 1,000 participants:
- More than 70% said they felt relaxed after consuming IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 88% have reduced alcohol consumption since discovering IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 95% have told a friend about IMPOSSIBREW® after trying.
- 3/4 say that IMPOSSIBREW® is "the most complete alcohol alternative currently available on the market today".
Recognition
IMPOSSIBREW® has received several notable achievements:
- Featured on BBC's Dragons' Den
- Awarded the first and only Gold Medal in the No/Low beer category from the London Beer Competition
- Received multiple industry Gold awards in categories against Full-ABV beers
- Most followed No/Low Alcohol brand on TikTok globally.
Mission and Vision
IMPOSSIBREW® is on a mission to redefine non-alcoholic drinking by creating better-than-alcohol alternatives for those who love beer but want to avoid the health risks associated with alcohol consumption.
The company aims to become the global leading alcohol alternative brand, focusing on helping people transition to a healthier mode of relaxation without the traditional issues and side effects of alcohol.
Production and Ingredients
IMPOSSIBREW® combines traditional brewing methods with their proprietary Social Blend™ along with patent-pending technology*
The beers are made with traditional brewing ingredients such as water, malted barley, wheat, hops, and yeast, in addition to the Social Blend™ components - leveraging their unique cryogenic fermentation process, which means no alcohol is ever removed from the product - ensuring the most authentic quality taste you've come to expect.
Who is it for?
IMPOSSIBREW® caters to consumers who:
- Are busy professionals and parents who would like to unwind with a drink but don't want the hangovers.
- Enjoy the taste and relaxing experience of beer
- Are looking for healthier alternatives to alcohol, with lower calories, carbs and sugar
- Want to avoid hangovers and other negative effects of alcohol consumption
- Are interested in functional beverages with potential mood-enhancing properties
By offering a unique product that aims to replicate both the taste and feeling of alcoholic beer, IMPOSSIBREW® is positioning itself at the forefront of the growing non-alcoholic beverage market.
Get Started Today
Give it a try today with our Welcome Bundle and get 2 Free Beers with your first purchase. Get it delivered straight to your door, risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee.
We hope you enjoy them as much as we do and we can't wait for you to try.
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
How does 'Social Blend™' work?
Social Blend™ is our proprietary alcohol alternative made from a blend of science-backed ingredients using patent-pending technology*.
Designed to replicate the sensory and social relaxing experience of drinking, minus the headaches (and bad decisions).
Developed with Dr Paul Chazot, Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University.
Key Components and Mechanisms
- L-Theanine:
- Ashwagandha Root:
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):
- Various nootropic herbs:
Benefits
- Relaxation: The blend promotes a state of relaxation without the sedative effects typically associated with alcohol.
- Mental Calm: By boosting alpha brain waves and serotonin levels, it helps maintain a calm and focused mental state.
- Stress Relief: The combination of L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, and Vitamin B1 helps mitigate stress and anxiety.
- Mood Enhancement: The inclusion these ingredients and other botanicals supports mood regulation and overall positive outlook.
IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ is a carefully crafted combination of nootropic and adaptogenic ingredients designed to offer a relaxing and mood-enhancing experience without the drawbacks of alcohol. It leverages the natural properties of its components to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mood, making it a unique alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
(Read our latest research paper here)
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
Do you ship overseas?
We ship to the UK Mainland for free when you spend over £35
We aim to expand internationally soon - stay tuned!
If you have any queries, feel free to email: hello(@)impossibrew.co.uk
How long will it take to get my orders?
For UK mainland deliveries, normal orders processed here will take 1-3 business days to arrive, with an optional upgrade to Next Day Delivery available (12pm cut-off).
Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.
How is 0.5% ABV alcohol-free?
Yes, we know it's confusing. Isn't 0.5% ABV still alcoholic? Officially, 0.5% ABV is classified as Dealcoholised.
- In fact, most things we consume daily have more than 0.5% ABV
- Burger Rolls - 1.2% ABV
- Orange Juice - 0.5% ABV
- Ripe Banana - 0.5% ABV
After more than 2 years of research, we've found that the 0.5% ABV from our natural brewing process significantly increases both flavour and mouthfeel - without spiking your blood alcohol level (BAC).
Is it really gluten-free?
Yes, IMPOSSIBREW® Enhanced Lager is gluten-free. Even though it contains wheat and barley, our beers have been third-party tested to contain less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of gluten, which meets the criteria to be listed as, and labeled gluten-free.
Does it have alcohol tax?
No. While it is true that our beers don't contain alcohol, and thus don't incur UK alcohol duty, we'd like to highlight some factors here that might be helpful in reflecting the value we provide.
- One-to-One Brewing Process: At IMPOSSIBREW, we take pride in our unique brewing techniques. Unlike other non-alcoholic beers, our products are never diluted, watered-down, or have their alcohol content removed - and some even dilute their alcoholic beers up to 5x. This means that our brewing process involves the same level of craftsmanship, time, and resources as a traditional craft beer, resulting in comparable production costs.
- Effective Nootropics: In our commitment to creating the most relaxing non-alcoholic beers, we utilise only the highest quality nootropics as our active ingredients, in safe and effectives dosages. At current alcohol tax rates for a 5% ABV beer, the cost of our nootropics more than double that. Instead of contributing the amounts as tax, why not have it contribute to the product quality itself?
- Small Scale Brewing: Currently, we operate on a smaller scale, which makes us less competitive than large, commercial brewers (often +10,000x our brewing size). As a growing business, we are passionate about our mission to create unique, high-quality non-alcoholic experiences, and we truly appreciate your support. As we continue to grow and expand our production capabilities, we look forward to passing on even more savings to our valued community!
At IMPOSSIBREW, we prioritise offering our customers an enhanced, premium, non-alcoholic beer experience by combining innovative brewing techniques, quality active nootropic ingredients, and award-winning taste. While our pricing may differ from other non-alcoholic competitors, we believe that the value proposition and unique experience our beers provide are well worth it.
At the end of the day, tasting is believing. So give it a try and let us know what you think - risk-free with our IMPOSSIBREW® Guarantee.
Who shouldn't drink IMPOSSIBREW®?
It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with certain medical conditions like GI disorders or hypertension, or individuals taking specific medications such as antidepressants or blood thinners. If you fall into any of these categories, it's best to consult with your doctor first.
Ashwagandha can lead to overstimulation (i.e. restlessness) if taken alongside thyroid medication.
What is your philosophy?
For thousands of years, we had only one way to unwind together. One way to let our guards down. One way to bridge the gap between who we are and who we are with others.
Not because it was perfect. But because it was all we had.
We decided that wasn't good enough.
We exist because we believe in a world where social connection doesn't demand compromise.
Where being present with others doesn't mean being absent from yourself. Where letting go doesn't mean losing control.This isn't about removing alcohol. This is about something better.
Our Social Blend™ technology isn't an accident. It's the result of questioning everything we thought we knew about social drinking. About working with scientists to understand what we're really seeking in these moments of connection. About daring to imagine something that wasn't possible before.
We believe the greatest innovations don't just solve problems - they change how we live. They make us question why we ever settled for less.
That's what we're building. Not just a drink, but a new way forward. A future where social connection comes without compromise. Where tradition meets innovation. Where science meets ritual.
This is the future of social drinking.
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