Title: C3G - A Natural Compound with Promising Cognitive and Mental Health Benefits
Author: Chris Shugart
I. Introduction
More than 30 million Americans grapple with issues such as Attention - Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and depression. Emerging research indicates that a natural substance might provide a viable solution for alleviating these problems.
Recently, I participated in a stand - up comedy class alongside ten other individuals. Prior to the class commencing, the topic of conversation shifted to drugs. Given the nature of comedians, it wasn't a "just say no" environment. However, I was astounded to learn that seven out of the ten classmates were on prescription medications for either ADHD or depression.
While it could be argued that those attracted to stand - up comedy are more predisposed to such issues, it's important to note that over 30 million Americans, regardless of their comedic prowess, are taking medications for ADHD or depression.
As an expert in the intersection of nutrition and cognitive health, I offered my classmates some advice regarding the correction of omega - 3, vitamin D, and magnesium deficiencies, which are closely associated with cognitive performance. Regrettably, they were reluctant to accept this advice.
I firmly believe that, barring a few exceptional cases, maintaining mental sharpness and health through good nutrition and supplements, without relying on psychiatric drugs, is a remarkable achievement in today's world. This is why I was intrigued by new research on the nootropic benefits of a natural anthocyanin - C3G.
II. C3G: Drug - like Benefits without Side - effects?
C3G (available for purchase on Amazon) is commonly recognized as a nutrient - partitioning agent. It aids in weight loss, prevents fat regain, and promotes muscle building. However, the biohacking community is increasingly interested in its impact on focus, mental clarity, and mood.
Although research on this aspect of C3G is in its nascent stage, initial findings suggest potential cognitive benefits. These effects are hypothesized to be due to C3G's ability to influence neurotransmitters, specifically through the mechanism of monoamine oxidase inhibition.
Monoamine oxidase, an enzyme with two isoforms (MAO - A and MAO - B), breaks down key neurotransmitters:
Dopamine, which is involved in motivation, reward, and focus.
Serotonin, responsible for regulating mood, sleep, and emotional stability.
Norepinephrine, which enhances alertness, attention, and energy.
Certain compounds can increase neurotransmitter levels in the brain by inhibiting MAO, thereby improving mood, focus, and cognitive performance. MAO inhibitors are used in the treatment of depression and Parkinson's disease. However, they are associated with significant side - effects.
Preliminary research indicates that certain flavonoids and anthocyanins, including C3G, act as mild MAO inhibitors, offering subtle cognitive and mood benefits without the risks associated with pharmaceutical MAOIs.
Preclinical research suggests that the phenolic hydroxyl groups in anthocyanins can bind to the active site of MAO, reducing its activity. An in - vitro study demonstrated that C3G and its metabolites mildly inhibit MAO - A, leading to increased serotonin and norepinephrine levels. Although the inhibition was less potent than that of synthetic MAOIs, it was still observable.
A related mouse study on black rice extract (rich in C3G) reported increased brain dopamine levels following chronic administration, indicating possible MAO - B inhibition.
C3G's antioxidant and anti - inflammatory properties may also protect dopaminergic and serotonergic neurons, enhancing their function. A rat study showed that a C3G - rich extract reduced oxidative stress in the hippocampus, which correlated with improved mood in stress - induced depression models.
C3G may also modulate Brain - Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein linked to neurogenesis and mood regulation. Mice fed C3G - rich diets exhibited increased BDNF expression, potentially contributing to mood enhancements.
Regarding ADHD, C3G appears to operate through similar mechanisms. Dopamine dysregulation is a core aspect of ADHD. Additionally, C3G improves gut microbiota health. New research has linked gut dysbiosis to ADHD, as altered microbiota can affect brain function via the gut - brain axis. Excessive harmful gut bacteria are associated with inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. While further studies are required, the theory is that C3G helps create a healthy gut microbiome that may mitigate ADHD symptoms.
III. Utilizing the Information
At present, we cannot claim that C3G "treats" depression and ADHD. The reported effects, while positive, are relatively mild compared to drug - based treatments. Nevertheless, it's encouraging to know that C3G plays a role in mental health and cognitive enhancement, even if it's primarily taken for its body - composition benefits.
One concern among researchers is the bioavailability of C3G. In their studies, plain extracts without delivery systems were used, which required a relatively large amount of C3G to observe benefits. However, higher - quality and more expensive C3G supplements have addressed this issue by incorporating glycerol monostearate (GMS).
GMS promotes micelle formation in the gut, facilitating the effective transport of C3G across the intestinal lining. It increases C3G's solubility at the absorption site and supports its uptake through lipid absorption pathways, ensuring better absorption for the body to utilize.
Indigo - 3G Nutrient Partitioning Agent (available for purchase on Amazon) contains 300 mg of C3G per serving and utilizes GMS to enhance bioavailability.
