NEW · EDITOR’S PICK · FEATURED WELLNESS · David Tomen
THE BRAIN UPGRADE
Nootropics, Neurotransmitters & Cognitive Longevity
Retreat Play · 1h 0m
About this conversation
What actually happens when the brain stops performing the way it used to?
In this expansive Retreat Institute conversation, David Tomen shares the personal journey that led him deep into the world of nootropics and cognitive optimization — from struggles with focus and memory to years spent studying neuroscience, pharmacology and nutritional support for the brain.
The conversation moves far beyond the idea of a single "smart pill." David and Basim explore how neurotransmitters, blood flow, cell membranes, mitochondrial energy, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids all contribute to the way the brain functions.
They also explore dopamine and acetylcholine, the history of nootropics, DHA and phospholipids, magnesium and vitamin D, mitochondrial energy production, BDNF, serotonin, GABA and the practical realities of supporting cognitive performance as we age.
This is a wide-ranging conversation for anyone interested in brain performance, focus, memory, longevity and understanding the systems that help the brain do its best work.
In this conversation
- 01THE ORIGIN OF NOOTROPICS
Where the term came from and why cognitive enhancers became a field of study.
- 02THE NEUROTRANSMITTER GAME
David’s perspective on dopamine, acetylcholine, serotonin and GABA.
- 03THE FOUNDATIONS FIRST
Why magnesium, vitamin D, B vitamins, omega-3s and foundational nutrition come up repeatedly in brain-health conversations.
- 04BUILDING THE BRAIN CELL
DHA, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylcholine and the importance of healthy cell membranes.
- 05ENERGY FOR THE BRAIN
Mitochondria, acetyl-L-carnitine and the relationship between cellular energy and cognition.
- 06COGNITIVE LONGEVITY
A discussion of aging, blood flow, neurotransmitters and supporting brain performance over time.
Take this with you
- Cognitive performance depends on more than one neurotransmitter or supplement.
- Brain health is connected to nutrition, energy production, circulation and cell-membrane function.
- Foundational nutrient status matters before advanced "stacking" strategies.
- Different cognitive goals may involve different neurological systems.
- Brain optimization is better understood as a system than as a single-product solution.
Reflect
Which area of cognitive performance matters most to you right now: focus, memory, energy or mental clarity?
Are you trying to solve a brain-performance problem with one tool when the underlying system may be broader?
What foundational habits or nutrients would you want to understand better after this conversation?
This conversation is for educational purposes and does not replace individualized medical advice. Consult an appropriate healthcare professional before making significant changes to medications, supplements or treatment.
