BACKGROUND
Qualia Focus was formulated as a nootropic supplement to support mental energy. The brain uses a lot of energy—roughly 20% of daily caloric intake is used by the brain. The reason for this is that mental activity, like physical work, requires energy and uses resources. And, the more effortful or sustained the mental activity, the more that’s required. When scientists talk about mental energy, they usually refer to a triad of (1) feeling energetic, (2) being motivated, and (3) experiencing focused attention. In short, when the brain has more resources that support mental energy, the demanding cognitive functions we need to do during the day—tasks that take mental effort—feel easier.*
METHODS
During the development of Qualia Focus, volunteers agreed to take the product and give feedback about their experiences related to mental energy. In March-April 2021, adult volunteers were divided into two groups. One group was given Qualia Focus. Another group was given the same formula with the Celastrus paniculata seed extract replaced with magnesium. This was done to A-B test the two formulations in order to determine whether both versions were experienced similarly, and, if not, whether one variation of the formula was better able to meet our success criteria. Participants were instructed to take 2 capsules a day in the morning for 5 days. At the end of the 5 days, participants completed a survey questionnaire reporting on their experience. The formulation version containing Celastrus paniculata seed extract produced superior feedback from customers on the nootropic benefits they perceived. Results for the 22 persons in this arm of the study are summarized.*
RESULTS
Highly Rated. 82% (more than eight out of ten participants) rated the product as excellent or good. Half of all participants rated it as excellent.†
Mental Energy. 77% (almost eight out of ten participants) reported an improvement in one or more areas related to mental energy (energy, motivation, complex problem solving).
Energy. 59% (six out of ten participants) felt their energy and motivation were higher than usual.
Productivity. 59% (six out of ten participants) felt they were getting more meaningful work done than usual.
Problem Solving. 55% felt they were more capable of handling complex challenges or problems than usual.
Stress Management. 55% felt they were more capable of handling stressful situations than usual.
Sustained Mental Energy. 59% (six out of ten participants) felt the sustained nootropic benefits for 4 to 8 hours or more. 77% (almost 8 out of ten participants) felt benefits for at least several hours.
†Based on proprietary survey data from 22 people after 5 days of Qualia Focus.
Disclaimer: Several factors should be kept in mind when interpreting the results. The study contained a small number of participants and was not placebo-controlled. While Qualia is encouraged by the results of this small preliminary study, further controlled, larger studies will be required to verify the findings.
