For years, podcast host Joe Rogan has been a vocal advocate for optimizing health and performance through supplementation. A key part of his regimen focuses on cognitive function, leading many to ask, "What brain pills does Joe Rogan take?" While he is most famously associated with Onnit's Alpha BRAIN, a nootropic blend he helped develop, his stack is more extensive and has evolved over time. This article delves into the various brain-boosting supplements Rogan has discussed, breaking down their ingredients and potential effects.
Alpha BRAIN and the Onnit Lineup
Joe Rogan's partnership with the supplement company Onnit has been pivotal in popularizing nootropics. His repeated endorsements on The Joe Rogan Experience have made Alpha BRAIN a bestseller. The product is a dietary supplement formulated to enhance cognitive function, memory, mental processing speed, and focus.
Onnit Alpha BRAIN ingredients and their purported benefits:
- Onnit Flow Blend: Includes L-Tyrosine, L-Theanine, Oat Straw Extract, and Phosphatidylserine, which aim to help manage stress and promote a calm, focused state.
- Onnit Focus Blend: Contains Alpha-GPC, Bacopa Monnieri, and Huperzine A, designed to support verbal memory and mental clarity. Bacopa is an herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for cognitive enhancement.
- Onnit Fuel Blend: Features L-Leucine and Pterostilbene, which provide amino acid support.
Following its success, Onnit also released Alpha BRAIN Black Label, a newer version with slightly different formulations and potency. Rogan has also used other Onnit products like New Mood for relaxation and Shroom Tech Sport for energy and cardiovascular endurance, which contains adaptogenic mushrooms and herbs.
The Role of Foundational Supplements
Beyond specialized nootropics, Rogan's brain health approach is supported by more foundational supplements that have known benefits for overall wellness and cognitive function. These are often discussed in conversations with health experts on his podcast.
Rogan's foundational brain health supplements:
- Omega-3 Fish Oil: Rogan has mentioned taking Carlson's Super Omega-3 fish oil, which is rich in EPA and DHA. These fatty acids are crucial for brain function, inflammation reduction, and overall cognitive health.
- Creatine: Commonly associated with muscle building, creatine has also shown benefits for cognitive performance, particularly in tasks requiring quick thinking and problem-solving, even during sleep deprivation.
- Vitamin D: A vitamin critical for bone health and immune function, Vitamin D also plays a role in mood and cognitive function, which Rogan has discussed with experts like Dr. Rhonda Patrick.
- NMN and Resveratrol: After a conversation with Dr. David Sinclair, Rogan began incorporating Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) and Resveratrol into his routine. NMN is a precursor to NAD+, a coenzyme vital for cellular energy and DNA repair, while Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant.
- Multivitamin: He includes a comprehensive multivitamin like Pure Encapsulations Athletic Pure Pack, which contains various nutrients, including creatine, CoQ10, and NAC.
Comparing Joe Rogan's Brain Supplements
| Supplement | Primary Cognitive Benefit | Key Ingredients | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Onnit Alpha BRAIN | Focus, Verbal Memory | Alpha-GPC, Bacopa Monnieri, Huperzine A | Caffeine-free, specific cognitive support, widely available. | Proprietary blends hide specific dosages, mixed scientific findings. |
| Creatine | Cognitive Function under fatigue | Creatine Monohydrate | Highly researched, affordable, also boosts physical performance. | Can cause bloating in some individuals, primary benefits are physical. |
| Omega-3 Fish Oil | Brain Function, Reduced Inflammation | EPA, DHA | Strong scientific evidence for brain and heart health, widely accessible. | Can cause burping or bad taste, some sources may be contaminated. |
| NMN & Resveratrol | Cellular Energy, Antioxidant Effects | Nicotinamide Mononucleotide, Resveratrol | Targets cellular health and aging, promoted by longevity experts. | High cost, newer research on human effects, long-term impact less certain. |
| Lion's Mane Mushroom | Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) support | Hericium erinaceus | Natural adaptogen, supports neuron health, potential for memory. | Effects may be subtle and take time, variable product quality. |
Other Nootropics and Substances Mentioned
Rogan's willingness to experiment means he has discussed and used many other substances for cognitive effects over the years, though not all are consistently part of his routine. These range from over-the-counter options to more experimental compounds.
- Neuro Gum: A chewable gum containing caffeine and L-Theanine, intended for a quick and convenient mental boost.
- Methylene Blue: A controversial substance Rogan has experimented with, some proponents believe it can enhance cognitive function and act as an antioxidant. However, it requires significant caution and is not intended for general public use.
- CBD: While not a nootropic, Rogan uses Cannabidiol (CBD) for its anti-inflammatory and anxiety-reducing properties, which can indirectly support mental clarity.
Conclusion
Joe Rogan's regimen for cognitive enhancement is multifaceted, built around a foundation of staple supplements and a willingness to explore newer nootropics. The most recognized "brain pill" he takes is Alpha BRAIN from his partner company, Onnit, which contains a blend of amino acids and herbal extracts for memory and focus. However, his routine is augmented by essential nutrients like Omega-3s, Vitamin D, and Creatine, as well as more experimental compounds like NMN and Methylene Blue. For anyone considering these supplements, it's critical to understand that Rogan's results are influenced by his rigorous health routine, and consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended before starting a new regimen.
