Best Drinks for Studying (2024)

From nootropic supplements to energy drinks to cold showers, students are constantly innovating new ways to optimize their study routines. But one common factor cannot be overlooked–your study beverage.

You're likely to keep a drink on hand while you study, so why not choose a beverage that will promote focus, increase retention, provide sustained energy, and otherwise support healthy cognitive function? 

Luckily, you've got plenty of options. From traditional favorites to cutting-edge innovations, here are some of the best drinks for studying this year:

Green tea stands as a time-tested favorite for its multitude of health benefits, including its potential to enhance brain function. Rich in antioxidants and boasting just the right amount of caffeine, green tea promotes alertness and concentration.

Furthermore, its amino acid L-theanine fosters cognitive function and reduces stress, making it an ideal study companion for long sessions.

L-theanine is a well-known natural nootropic with a wide range of health benefits and is known as a superstar pairing for mild to moderate doses of caffeine. The combination of L-theanine and caffeine can provide sustained, focused energy without the usual side effects of caffeine, like jitters or anxiety.

Derived from finely ground green tea leaves, matcha delivers a concentrated dose of antioxidants and caffeine. In matcha, the entire tea leaf is consumed (and not just steeped), meaning the antioxidant and l-theanine concentration is even greater than regular green tea.

The synergistic blend of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha offers a balanced energy boost, fostering both alertness and a calm, focused mindset. When transformed into a latte with steamed milk, it becomes a creamy and comforting beverage perfect for sustained focus. Plus, matcha may have additional benefits, like promoting better skin health and slowing the aging process.  

Turmeric, celebrated for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential cognitive benefits, has gained prominence in recent years.

When combined with warm milk and spices like cinnamon and ginger to create golden milk, it becomes a soothing and nourishing elixir. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been linked to improved memory and mood, making golden milk an excellent choice for study sessions requiring mental clarity and emotional balance.

A nutrient-rich berry smoothie not only tantalizes the taste buds but also serves as an excellent brain-boosting option. Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries are brimming with antioxidants, shielding brain cells from oxidative stress and bolstering cognitive function.

Blend them with leafy greens like spinach or kale for an added punch of vitamins and minerals vital for brain health. Incorporating ingredients such as Greek yogurt or nut butter provides protein, keeping you satiated and focused for extended periods.

Mushroom coffee has surged in popularity for its unique blend of earthy flavors and cognitive benefits. Featuring medicinal mushrooms like lion's mane and chaga, it offers a natural source of focus-enhancing compounds.

Lion's mane, in particular, has garnered attention for its potential to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production, supporting brain health and cognitive function. Other mushrooms, like Cordyceps and Turkey Tail, may have other long-term benefits like promoting endurance or boosting immunity. Ultimately, there are many different medicinal mushrooms, each with unique benefits, making mushroom coffee one of the most versatile brain-boosters on this list.

Enjoy a cup of mushroom coffee to sharpen your focus and elevate your study sessions.

Read to learn more about mushroom coffee:

Nootropic beverages, formulated to optimize cognitive performance, have become increasingly prevalent in the market.

Harnessing the power of compounds like ginkgo biloba, ginseng, and again, medicinal mushrooms, these beverages aim to enhance memory, concentration, and mental clarity.

Seek out blends specifically designed to support brain health and cognitive function and incorporate them into your study routine for a natural and caffeine-free cognitive boost.

For many, coffee remains a steadfast companion during study sessions, thanks to its rich caffeine content. Coffee can enhance alertness and cognitive function, providing a valuable mental pick-me-up.

However, moderation is key to avoiding potential side effects such as jitteriness and disrupted sleep patterns. Enjoy a cup of coffee strategically during study breaks to harness its benefits without compromising your well-being.

When it comes to selecting beverages to enhance cognitive function, understanding the key ingredients and their benefits is essential. Here's a breakdown of the ingredients commonly found in brain-boosting beverages and their cognitive effects:

Antioxidants are compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, protecting cells from damage.

Many brain-boosting beverages, such as green tea and berry smoothies, are rich in antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids. These antioxidants have been shown to improve brain function by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which can impair cognitive performance.

Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in coffee, tea, and certain energy drinks. It works by blocking the inhibitory neurotransmitter adenosine, leading to increased alertness and improved mood.

Moderate caffeine intake has been associated with enhanced focus, attention, and reaction time. However, excessive consumption can lead to jitteriness, anxiety, and disrupted sleep patterns, so it's essential to consume caffeine in moderation.

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and play crucial roles in neurotransmitter synthesis and brain function.

One amino acid of particular interest is L-theanine, found in green tea and mushroom coffee. L-theanine has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress without causing drowsiness. When combined with caffeine, as in green tea or matcha, L-theanine can enhance cognitive performance by improving attention and focus.

Curcumin is the active compound found in turmeric, renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Studies suggest that curcumin may enhance memory and cognitive function by increasing levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth and survival of neurons. Golden milk, made with turmeric, is a popular beverage choice for its potential cognitive benefits.

Certain mushrooms, such as lion's mane and chaga, contain bioactive compounds that may support brain health and cognitive function.

Lion's mane, in particular, has been studied for its ability to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production, which plays a crucial role in nerve cell growth, maintenance, and repair. Mushroom coffee offers a unique way to incorporate these beneficial mushrooms into your study routine.

By understanding the ingredients found in brain-boosting beverages and their cognitive benefits, consumers can make informed choices to support their mental performance and overall well-being. Now, let’s cover some quick tips to help make your decision even easier to make:

Choosing the best beverage to fuel your study sessions involves considering your individual needs and preferences. Here are some tips to help you narrow down your options:

Reflect on your personal preferences, dietary restrictions, and caffeine tolerance. Are you looking for a caffeine boost, or do you prefer caffeine-free options? Do you have dietary restrictions, such as being vegan or gluten-free?

Consider the difference between customizable recipes and pre-packaged alternatives to decide what best caters to your specific preferences.

Strategically time your beverage consumption for maximum effectiveness during study sessions.

• Start with hydration by drinking water to support cognitive function.

• Incorporate caffeinated beverages strategically, such as when you need a mental boost.

• Wind down with calming herbal teas in the evening to promote relaxation and better sleep quality.

Remember to control portion sizes and avoid excessive caffeine intake to prevent negative side effects.

Pair your brain-boosting beverages with nutrient-dense snacks and meals to support overall cognitive health.

Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals known to benefit brain function, such as fatty fish, nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and whole grains. Adopting a holistic approach to nutrition enhances cognitive performance and supports long-term brain health.

Consult healthcare professionals or registered dietitians for personalized guidance, especially if you have underlying health conditions or concerns about specific ingredients. Access reliable resources to educate yourself on nutrition and dietary supplements, ensuring informed decisions about beverage choices for studying.

By following these tips, you can select the best study drink tailored to your needs, preferences, and goals, enhancing your focus, memory, and productivity during study sessions.

The best drinks for studying in 2024 offer a diverse array of options, each tailored to enhance cognitive function and support academic success. Whether you prefer the time-honored tradition of green tea, the innovative blend of mushroom coffee, or the cognitive-boosting properties of nootropic beverages, there's a beverage to suit every taste and study style.