Microbead Mastery: The Art and Science of Nootropic Release

For us, microbead technology is at the heart of effective nutrient delivery to our three brains; head, heart, and gut.*

It's an innovative process that formulates active nutrients in free-flowing spherical beads, which can be coated to provide the required modified-release properties.

Curious to learn how microbead and nutrient release mechanisms can change how you take nootropics? Keep reading!

What are the basic principles of nutrient release?

We don't want to bore you with science that is hard to understand. So, here's just the scoop:

Dissolution.

Definition: The process by which a solid substance dissolves in a solvent, making its molecules or ions available in the solution.

Relevance: The active nutrients in nootropics must dissolve in the digestive fluids before they can be absorbed into the bloodstream. The rate and extent of dissolution can significantly affect the nutrient's bioavailability.*

Absorption.

Definition: Absorption happens when nutrient molecules pass through the gastrointestinal lining into the circulatory system.

Relevance: Even if a nutrient is fully dissolved, it must be efficiently absorbed to exert its effects. Factors such as molecular size, lipid solubility, and the presence of transporters can affect absorption.*

Bioavailability.

Definition: Many use absorption and bioavailability as synonyms. But the two terms are not always interchangeable. Typically, bioavailability refers to the % of the nutrient that enters the circulation when introduced into the body and can have an active effect.

Relevance: High bioavailability depends on both dissolution and absorption and is important as it can directly dictate a nootropic's efficacy. That's why high bioavailability is one of the core principles of our nootropic designs.*

Controlled-release.

Definition: Typically refers to the technology or method that releases the active nutrient(s) at a predetermined rate, location, and duration to achieve and maintain optimal therapeutic levels.

Relevance: Controlled-release nootropics aim to maintain nutrient concentrations within a desired range, minimizing peaks and troughs that could lead to unwanted side effects or decreased efficacy.*

Degradation protection.

Definition: Most nutrients are sensitive to external or internal factors. Exposure to moisture, UV light, oxygen, digestive enzymes, or high pH levels can sometimes degrade the nutrients, making them less effective overall.*

Relevance: We coat the active nutrients in a protective 'shell' to minimize potential risks and ensure that the intended dose reaches the absorption site intact.*

Excipients role.

Definition: You have probably heard about excipients. Everyone talks about these "additives" added alongside the active nutrients for bulking up formulations that contain potent active ingredients or confer a therapeutic enhancement, such as facilitating absorption or controlled release.*

Relevance: Excipients can affect the release profile, stability, and bioavailability of nutrients, playing a critical role in the formulation's overall effectiveness.*

How can nutrient-release technology benefit you?

We've explained how nutrient release refers to the process by which active nutrients are released into your body. Regardless if it's a nootropic or any other type of dietary supplement.

Great. But some may think: "Well, isn't it just about the nootropic dissolving and my body absorbing the nutrients? What's so special about these release mechanisms?"

Bottom line: The release mechanism can matter more than you may think. It can determine the rate and (very importantly) the extent of nutrient absorption into the bloodstream.*

Why does this matter?

Because the goal is to achieve maximum bioavailability, which can directly influence the cognitive enhancement effects.*

In simpler terms, a well-designed release mechanism can 'help' your brain use more (and more efficiently) of the active nutrients, potentially leading to better overall results from the nootropic.*

Coated microbeads and controlled-release.

We typically favor coated microbeads because we can better control the release of nutrients.*¹ We design these tiny, spherical microbeads with a core consisting of active nutrients, surrounded by one or more layers of coating material.

The purpose of this design? Quite a few potential benefits:

1) Protection against degradation.*

As mentioned above, one of the primary advantages of coated microbeads is their ability to protect sensitive nutrients from the harsh conditions of the digestive tract.*

This protective barrier can help prevent nutrient degradation, ensuring they remain potent until they reach their intended absorption site - the stomach or the small intestine.*

2) Masking unpleasant tastes and odors.

Many active nutrients—like Choline, N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC), Fish Oil, Ashwagandha, or Sulbutiamine (a Vitamin B1 derivative)—have unpleasant tastes or odors. And who wants their favorite nootropic to smell or taste bad?

The coating can conceal these undesirable characteristics.

3) Regulated nutrient release.*

Perhaps the most important advantage of coated microbeads is their ability to regulate the release of active nutrients.*

By carefully designing the coating materials and thickness, we can create customized release profiles—whether immediate, delayed, or extended.*

What do all these mean to you? A more consistent and predictable cognitive enhancement experience. Plus, enhanced bioavailability and efficacy = better cognitive enhancement results.*