Our world has become increasingly overwhelming.
We are more stressed than ever, busier than ever, constantly switched on and thinking about multiple things at once. At the same time, mental health issues are rising quickly and becoming part of everyday life.
We are only just starting to pay attention to how much nutrition impacts the brain.
Not just symptoms like:
- Brain fog
- Low mood
- Poor concentration
- Low energy
But also conditions such as ADHD, autism, mood disorders and even the cognitive shifts seen in perimenopause.
Every part of our diet plays a role here. Vitamins, minerals, fats, proteins, fibre and carbohydrates all contribute to how the brain functions. They influence neurotransmitters, inflammation, energy production and long term brain health.
The scale of the problem
- Around 1 in 6 people in the UK, approximately 11 million, are living with a neurological condition
- In 2023 to 2024, 1 in 5 adults in England had a common mental health condition
- Women are disproportionately affected, with rates at 24.2 percent compared to 15.4 percent in men Brain research UK
- Dementia is now the leading cause of death in the UK, with over 76,000 deaths in 2024, again affecting women more. Dementia UK
We are also starting to better understand why women are more affected, particularly when you look at hormonal shifts across the lifespan.
Why we created Brain +
We wanted to create something that actually supports the brain. Not just for how you feel now, but also for protection longer term.
That meant going through the research properly. Looking at human trials, understanding mechanisms, and focusing on what actually helps the brain.
One of the biggest issues in supplements is dosing.
You often see:
- Ingredients included at levels too low to have an effect
- Forms that the body cannot use properly
- Especially with mushrooms, products that do not contain the full active profile
We wanted to change what was currently available on the market.
What is in it and why it matters?
We focused on ingredients that have research behind them, at doses that reflect what is used in studies.
B complex (with a focus on B5 and B6)
B vitamins are essential for neurotransmitter production, FoodForTheBrain including serotonin and dopamine. We looked at the research around B6 specifically and made sure the dose reflected where benefits are actually seen.
We also used forms closer to the active state in the body, which tend to be better tolerated.
Cognizin (citicoline)- A well researched form of citicoline, Cognizin supporting acetylcholine, which is key for focus, attention and memory.
Choline is a critical compound for brain function, and many people are not getting enough, or have more need for support due to genetics.
Lion’s Mane (500mg)
We used a meaningful dose, with a full spectrum extract including:
- Beta-glucans
- Polysaccharides
These are the active compounds responsible for its effects, and are often missing in lower quality supplements. We work directly with trusted suppliers and farms so we know exactly what is being used.
When you look at where the research is at, Lion’s Mane is one of the more interesting ingredients in this space.
A lot of the focus has been around its ability to support nerve growth Clinical review on LionsMane mushroom Compounds within Lion’s Mane have been shown to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), which plays a role in how brain cells grow, repair and communicate with each other
This links closely to neuroplasticity, which is essentially the brain’s ability to adapt, form new connections and maintain function over time.
Bacopa (300mg)
One of the most researched nootropics, particularly for:
- Memory
- Learning
- Cognitive processing
The dose reflects what is used in clinical studies- (Humanstudy review on Bacopa).
Ginkgo
Researched for its role in supporting blood flow to the brain, which is important for delivering oxygen and nutrients needed for focus, clarity and overall cognitive function.
We also looked at some of the more recent and emerging research, including work being explored by leading plant scientists at Kew Gardens, looking at compounds like ginkgo in the context of brain health and neurodegenerative conditions. There is ongoing research into its role in areas like Alzheimer’s, (AlzheimersResearchUK) it shows that plant compounds like this are being taken seriously in research for brain health and function.
Does it actually make a difference?
97 percent of people noticed an improvement in their mental performance after just 4 weeks of using Rheal’s Brain +.
That aligns with how these ingredients work.
- Some support more immediate focus and clarity
- Others build over time and support longer term brain health
Consistency is key here.
Who should consider it?
This type of support is most relevant for people experiencing:
- Persistent brain fog
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mental fatigue, especially in the afternoon
- High cognitive demand from work or study
- Chronic stress impacting clarity
It is also relevant for those thinking longer term. Cognitive decline does not suddenly appear later in life. It develops over time, often influenced by lifestyle and nutrition.
The bigger picture
At Rheal, we always look at the full picture when it comes to health.
Brain + sits alongside:
- Daily movement
- Good nutrition
- Strong social connections
- Quality sleep
When those foundations are in place, targeted supplementation can support how the brain performs day to day, while also helping to protect it long term.
