Thesis nootropics review: Are these cognitive boosters safe and effective?

Nootropics have become one of the trendiest products in the biohacking and wellness space, with many companies jumping on the bandwagon to sell proprietary “get-smart” formulas with big promises. Thesis nootropics stands out as one of the more popular options today — partly due to the brand’s extensive marketing of custom blends and ingredients.

Thesis claims its nootropics can enhance multiple aspects of your brain chemistry, including clarity, mood, and confidence, with minimal side effects. The question is: Are these nootropics truly the game-changer for brain optimization, or are they a passing fad at best?

In this article, we’ll discuss whether Thesis products can support your neurological health and cognitive performance goals. Our research team has analyzed the brand’s key blends, their efficacy, and related user experiences to provide an honest review and help you make an informed buying decision.

Thesis nootropics: Focus on individual-level customization

Thesis is a U.S.-based company that sells proprietary nootropic blends made mainly with herbs and naturally occurring compounds. It was founded in 2017 by Dan Freed, who wanted to add individual-level personalization to the nootropics market.

It’s worth noting that Freed was formally diagnosed with ADHD as a child but went from being a high school dropout to a Yale graduate by leveraging the right blend of nootropics to improve his mood and cognitive function. However, as Freed tried to make blends for his friends, he realized that what worked for him wouldn’t necessarily work for others. That’s how he became an advocate for personalized nootropics.

Today, Thesis claims to develop its nootropics after extensive testing, which includes several dosage adjustments after user reviews. The company currently offers six unique blends, each designed to achieve a specific mental effect:

1. Clarity

2. Creativity

3. Logic 

4. Confidence

5. Energy 

6. Motivation

Source: Thesis

Ordering, usage, and self-experimentation process

Thesis offers different purchase and customization options to customers. You can:

1. Buy Thesis blends separately

2. Build a box of four weekly blends

3. Take a quiz to determine the best blends based on lifestyle, goals, and cognitive challenges

Thesis typically delivers its nootropics in monthly boxes that contain daily packets of multiple capsules for six days a week. You can take the capsules together or mix them with smoothies and juices to mask the unpleasant flavor. The platform recommends having a rest day each week for optimal results.

Additionally, Thesis gives you the option to get a consultation with a Thesis coach who can help you customize your blends based on your experience. The optimization process includes testing how your chosen blends make you feel for six consecutive days. If you dislike the experience or notice side effects, your Thesis coach can help you adjust your blend selection or refine your dosage for your next order.

Source: Thesis

An in-depth review of Thesis nootropics: 4 areas to consider

While Thesis’ effort toward nootropics customization is appealing, is the brand able to capitalize on the hype and deliver quality products and services? Our team evaluated four practical aspects of Thesis nootropics to give you unbiased insights:

1. Transparency and quality of ingredients

2. Efficacy of blends

3. Safety and side effects

4. Pricing

1. Transparency and quality of ingredients 

Thesis blends contain various types of nootropic substances, most of which are natural. With each blend, you can choose whether you want the standard or caffeine-free version, depending on your preference.

Unlike many competitors (such as Onnit), Thesis is transparent about the specific ingredients and amounts that go into each blend. This gives you a lot more information to work with if a certain blend doesn’t work for you since you’ll be in a better position to experiment by eliminating ingredients or changing dosages.

At the time of researching, we found the following listed as Thesis blend ingredients:

| Thesis nootropics blend | Ingredients                                                                                                                                               |
| ----------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Clarity                 | • AlphaGrain Alpha-GPC <br> • Lion’s Mane <br> • Epicatechin <br> • 7,8-DHF                                                                                                   |
| Creativity              | • KSM-66 (ashwagandha) <br> • AlphaGrain Alpha-GPC 50% <br> • Agmatine <br> • GS15-4 (Panax ginseng) <br> • Zembrin (Sceletium tortuosum)                                           |
| Logic                   | • Synapsa (Bacopa monnieri extract) <br> • Ginkgo biloba <br> • Phosphatidylserine <br> • Theobromine <br> • Uridine monophosphate <br> • AvailOm (omega-3)                               |
| Confidence              | • Zembrin <br> • Affron (saffron extract) <br> • Magnesium bisglycinate <br> • Shoden (ashwagandha extract) <br> • Sage extract <br> • DHH-B                                              |
| Energy                  | • TeaCrine (theacrine) <br> • Sabroxy (Oroxylum indicum) <br> • NALT <br> • Choline <br> • Zynamite (Mangifera indica) <br> • NAC                                                        |
| Motivation              | • Dynamine (methylliberine) <br> • Artichoke extract <br> • L-Phenylalanine <br> • Forskolin <br>

According to Thesis, all blends are gluten-free, non-GMO, and produced in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices. The ingredients are sourced from around the world, but the blends are manufactured in the U.S.

Source: Thesis

Although Thesis claims its ingredients and products are tested regularly by third-party labs, we could not find any lab certificate or similar proof of quality on its product pages.

It’s worth noting that Thesis nootropics are categorized as dietary supplements, which means they don’t require FDA’s pre-market approval. Still, the company claims all ingredients they use are Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA or have undergone phase III clinical trials.

Bonus read: We’ve also reviewed two well-known suppliers of synthetic and research nootropics — Limitless Life (now Limitless Biotech) and CosmicNootropic.

2. Efficacy of blends

Thesis claims that the efficacy of its blends are more pronounced after persistent, long-term use. Still, you should feel the effects about 30–60 minutes after taking the supplements.

If you look at the company’s ingredients pages, you’ll find that Thesis has highlighted 2–3 studies about the efficacy of each nootropic. While Thesis claims that its nootropics can support brain health, user reports of their efficacy are divided.

Depending on the blends they chose, many customers experienced benefits, such as:

• Enhanced focus and motivation

• Better performance

• Lower procrastination

• Increased energy

We see users sharing different positive experiences about blends like Energy and Clarity. Some users find that the efficacy is not the same every day, though.

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/adhdwomen/comments/15sbw9s/comment/k0mnhsa/)

On the other hand, many users report feeling mild or no effects at all or having to stop intake due to significant side effects.

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/Nootropics/comments/151stgp/comment/k6j3hmr/)

Bonus read: Follow these guides to optimize your physical and mental health:

• Biohacking diet

• Biohacking for women

• Sleep tracking

• Red light therapy benefits for hair

3. Safety and side effects

Thesis products are supposedly free from harmful ingredients and non-addictive. They’re composed of thoroughly tested substances, many of which are natural. The company claims that its ingredients were generally well-tolerated in early studies. That said, these nootropics are considered unsuitable for those under 18, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those with pre-existing health issues, especially thyroid-related concerns.

Thesis has warned users of common side effects, such as headaches, nausea, anxiety, and agitation. Looking at user reviews of Thesis nootropics, it seems that adverse reactions aren’t uncommon. For instance, many users reported experiencing migraines with the Logic blend.

Other complaints talk about stomach issues, such as nausea, cramps, and diarrhea, as well as a negative impact on mental health. In some cases, users reported irritability and jitteriness, the opposite of the intended effects.

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/adhdwomen/comments/15sbw9s/comment/jxhda5u/)

Tip 💡

Since there are no extensive studies on the side effects of nootropics, taking them can seem like a gamble for many users, especially because individual factors such as genetics, weight, and metabolism play a crucial role in the effectiveness of nootropics.

That’s why you should consider getting a Nucleus DNA health test before starting new dietary or cognitive supplements.

Nucleus is a clinical-grade, whole-genome DNA testing platform that analyzes ~100% of your DNA to uncover insights about your mental and physical health, genetic predispositions, and IQ levels, among other things.

With Nucleus, you can learn what common or rare genetic variants you have — and use your reports to consult with medical practitioners to make supplementation or other health choices from an informed, data-driven perspective.

Order your Nucleus kit today to get started!

4. Pricing

As of November 2024, the cost of Thesis nootropics is $119 for a monthly supply. This price applies to one-time purchases. Subscribers pay $59 for the first box and $79 for renewals. Shipping and coach consultations are included in the price. 

We like that Thesis allows its customers to request a refund within 30 days of purchase. However, some users have reported poor customer service, especially if you’re looking to unsubscribe.

Thesis can be expensive compared to other nootropics and health supplements, especially if you commit to monthly supplies. Still, people who prioritize personalization over budget may find it appealing.

Source: Thesis

The takeaway: Are Thesis nootropics worth it?

Thesis nootropics may help some users enhance their cognitive performance, but the lack of quality proof and mixed user experiences warrant additional caution. Here’s a summary of our impressions of the brand:

| Pros                                                                                                                                                                                       | Cons                                                                                                                              |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| • Curated ingredients backed by research <br> • Third-party lab testing <br> • GRAS ingredients <br> • Personalized blends <br> • Free consultation with a coach <br> • Decent refund policy                              | • Lab certificates not publicly available <br> • Inconsistent results <br> • Many reported side effects <br> • Relatively expensive

Always consult a medical professional to weigh the risk of adverse reactions before committing to any nootropics supplements.

For added precaution, you can test your DNA with Nucleus to learn what conditions and traits your genes predispose you to and tailor your diet and supplement choices to your unique health profile.

This affordable, at-home test uses advanced whole-genome sequencing technology to analyze nearly 100% of your DNA. Your DNA analyses are then paired with non-genetic factors like BMI and blood pressure levels to provide detailed health reports with 99.9% accuracy. 

Nucleus: Your first step to data-driven health decisions

Nucleus is a physician-approved DNA platform designed to help you understand the genetic variants (i.e., differences) unique to you. The platform uses more robust technology than regular DNA services, helping you identify even rare genetic variants that other tests may miss. 

From cardiovascular and cancer screening to checking for neurological conditions, Nucleus gives you access to a variety of insights at a single price point. You can check out your reports to learn about your genetics- and ancestry-informed risk of developing 170+ physical and mental conditions, such as:

• Type 2 diabetes

• Depression

• Alcohol dependence

• Heart disease

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Bipolar disorder

• ADHD

You’ll also get trait reports that outline your natural intelligence level, as well as several other predispositions, such as male-pattern baldness, risk-taking, and longevity.

[X](https://x.com/ddcaridi/status/1830031320946524274)

You can take these reports to your healthcare provider to get personalized advice for potential supplementation, therapies, or dietary adjustments. Nucleus can also connect you with genetic counselors from its SteadyMD partner network.

Nucleus is a fully regulated company backed by HIPAA, CAP, and CLIA. For added privacy, your samples are processed in the U.S. and on U.S. machines.

Ordering Nucleus: Cost and logistics

Nucleus kits cost $399 and are HSA and FSA-eligible, making it the most affordable whole-genome solution in the U.S. market. The price includes all available health and trait reports, and you can also choose to access ongoing reports based on new scientific findings and your lifestyle changes. 

[X](https://x.com/nucleusgenomics/status/1782433788498206878)

You can take the test in minutes — you only need to swab your cheeks and mail the samples. Your results will be available in your online account within 6–8 weeks. 

Here’s how you can begin your Nucleus journey:

1. Sign up for Nucleus Premium

2. Provide your personal information

3. Order the kit

You can also gift Nucleus to your friends and family!

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| [Adaptogens and nootropics](https://mynucleus.com/blog/adaptogens-and-nootropics) | [NAD benefits](https://mynucleus.com/blog/nad-benefits)                       |
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Nootropics production operates in a gray area in terms of regulations, and consumption of these substances may lead to adverse effects based on individual physiology. It’s best to consult your healthcare provider before making any supplementation decision.

Featured image source: cottonbro studio