Alertness
Overview
Alertness is a state of mental readiness and wakefulness that allows you to quickly perceive, process, and respond to information. It’s a core component of attention and cognitive performance. and is regulated by a network of systems, including Brain's Reticular Activating System (RAS) which controls wakefulness and arousal.
Biochemical Factors Involved in Alertness
Alertness is usually increased by stimulating the Central Nervous System (CNS) or by stimulating the Alpha-1 Adrenergic Receptors of the Alpha-Adrenergic Nervous System.
Mental Alertness is characterized by and can be measured in EEG readings by the amount of Alpha Waves [1] during periods of calm, relaxed Alertness and Beta Waves [2] during periods of mental concentration during Alertness.
The Locus Coeruleus region of the Brain plays a major role in maintaining Alertness. [3]
N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptors (NMDA Receptors) are involved in maintaining Alertness. [4]
These Substances may Increase Alertness
Alkaloids
Caffeine may increase Alertness (short-term boost). [5]
Theobromine, found in cocoa beans ansd chocolate may have a milder, longer effect.
Amines
Methylhexaneamine may increase Alertness due to it mimicking the actions of Adrenaline and Norepinephrine.
Amino Acids
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) may increase Alertness in normal, healthy persons and in Alzheimer's Disease patients. [6]
Glutamic Acid may increase Alertness. [7]
Glutamine may increase Alertness.
Phenylalanine may increase Alertness via its function as a precursor for Norepinephrine. [8]
Theanine may increase Alertness. [9]
Tyrosine may increase Alertness due to its function as a precursor for the production of Norepinephrine. [10]
Coenzyme
NADH (2.5 - 5 mg per day) may improve Alertness by enhancing Energy production within the Brain and by increasing Brain Dopamine levels. [11]
Hormones
DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) may increase Alertness. [12]
Optimal Brain levels of Insulin may be required for Alertness. [13]
Pregnenolone may increase Alertness. [14]
Testosterone (replacement therapy) may increase Alertness. [15]
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