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NeuroFactor

Also known as: Neurofactor™, Coffee fruit extract, Coffea arabica fruit extract

Overview

Neurofactor™ is a branded extract derived from the whole fruit of *Coffea arabica*, commonly known as coffee fruit. It is classified as a nutraceutical supplement ingredient, rich in polyphenols and other bioactive compounds. This ingredient is primarily marketed for its potential to elevate levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein crucial for neuronal survival, growth, and synaptic plasticity. As a dietary supplement, Neurofactor™ aims to support overall cognitive function, enhance neuroplasticity, and promote brain health. While the concept of BDNF modulation for cognitive benefits is well-researched, direct, high-quality independent research specifically on Neurofactor™ is limited, with most evidence stemming from studies on general coffee fruit extracts or related compounds.

Benefits

The main purported benefit of Neurofactor™ is its ability to elevate serum BDNF levels, which is associated with improved cognitive function and neuroprotection. While systematic reviews and meta-analyses on other supplements (e.g., omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, zinc) have shown that increasing BDNF correlates with cognitive benefits, direct evidence for Neurofactor™ specifically is lacking in these reviews. There are no specific randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with adequate sample sizes published on Neurofactor™ in distinct populations, such as the elderly or cognitively impaired individuals. Consequently, quantitative effect sizes for Neurofactor™ on BDNF or cognition are not well established in independent, peer-reviewed RCTs, and there is no clear data on the time required for benefits to appear.

How it works

Neurofactor™ is believed to exert its effects primarily by increasing the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a key protein that supports the growth, differentiation, and survival of neurons, and plays a critical role in synaptic plasticity, which is essential for learning and memory. By modulating BDNF gene expression and its associated signaling pathways, Neurofactor™ is thought to act on the central nervous system to enhance neurotrophic support. While specific pharmacokinetic data for Neurofactor™ are not publicly available, polyphenols, which are abundant in coffee fruit, generally exhibit moderate bioavailability.

Side effects

Coffee fruit extracts, including Neurofactor™, are generally considered safe at typical supplement doses, and no significant adverse effects have been widely reported in the literature specifically for Neurofactor™. Common side effects are not well documented. There is no available data on uncommon or rare side effects. While no significant drug interactions are established, caution is advised when combining Neurofactor™ with stimulants or medications that affect the central nervous system due to its purported cognitive effects. There are no established contraindications. However, due to insufficient research, there is limited data regarding its safety and efficacy in special populations such as pregnant women, children, or individuals with pre-existing neurological disorders.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose for Neurofactor™ has not been established through independent randomized controlled trials. Optimal dosage ranges are not definitively known, as typical commercial supplements often use doses standardized to polyphenol content without a clear consensus on efficacy. The maximum safe dose for Neurofactor™ has also not been defined. There is no specific data available regarding the optimal timing of supplementation, such as relative to meals or time of day. Neurofactor™ is available in various forms, including capsules and powders, but there are no form-specific recommendations. Factors influencing absorption or potential cofactors that might enhance its effects are currently unknown.

FAQs

Does Neurofactor™ increase BDNF?

While Neurofactor™ is marketed to increase BDNF, direct independent evidence from high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically on Neurofactor™ is currently lacking.

Is Neurofactor™ safe?

Based on the general safety profile of coffee fruit extracts, Neurofactor™ is likely safe at typical supplement doses, with no significant adverse effects widely reported.

How soon do effects appear when taking Neurofactor™?

There is no clear data available from independent research on the time required for Neurofactor™ supplementation to produce measurable cognitive or BDNF changes.

Can Neurofactor™ improve memory or cognition?

Currently, there is no conclusive evidence from well-controlled, independent studies specifically on Neurofactor™ to confirm its ability to improve memory or overall cognition.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37589276/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis found that omega-3 fatty acids significantly increase serum BDNF levels, supporting cognitive health. While not directly about Neurofactor™, it highlights the importance of BDNF modulation for brain health.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35996352/ – This meta-analysis on probiotics demonstrated that supplementation can lead to increased BDNF levels. This provides indirect evidence that certain supplements can modulate BDNF, though Neurofactor™ was not included in this review.
https://journals.lww.com/ijom/fulltext/2022/13000/the_effect_of_zinc_supplementation_on_circulating.117.aspx – A meta-analysis of zinc supplementation RCTs showed significant increases in circulating BDNF compared to placebo in well-controlled, double-blind trials. This further supports the concept that specific nutritional interventions can influence BDNF, but does not involve Neurofactor™.