Overview
Citicoline (Cytidine-5'-diphosphocholine) is a potent nootropic compound that enhances brain function, supports memory, and protects against cognitive decline. Naturally occurring in the body, citicoline is a precursor to phospholipids essential for cell membrane repair and communication, making it integral to maintaining brain health. It has gained recognition for its neuroprotective and neuroenhancing properties, with studies highlighting its ability to boost focus, mental clarity, and overall cognitive performance.
Other Common Names
CDP-Choline, Cytidine Diphosphate Choline
Top Benefits
- Enhances focus and mental clarity
- Improves memory retention and recall
- Supports brain energy metabolism
- Protects against cognitive decline
- Promotes healthy neural communication
What Is Citicoline?
Citicoline is a naturally occurring compound found in the brain and other tissues. As a precursor to phosphatidylcholine, a key component of cell membranes, it plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of neural structures. It also supports the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter critical for learning, memory, and focus.
Citicoline has been extensively studied for its neuroprotective effects, particularly in aging populations and individuals experiencing cognitive decline. It enhances cerebral blood flow, supports brain plasticity, and helps repair damaged neural cells. For healthy adults, citicoline is a powerful cognitive enhancer, improving mental energy, focus, and multitasking ability.
Marco’s Grounds™ Citicoline Sourcing
At Marco’s Grounds™, our Citicoline, the building block for citicoline, is derived from ethically raised, pasture-fed eggs and dairy sourced from regenerative family farm in Waikato, New Zealand. This farm emphasize sustainable agriculture, fostering biodiversity and soil enrichment.
To ensure exceptional quality, the raw materials are processed with advanced methods that preserve their natural integrity, free from artificial contaminants. This commitment to purity and sustainability results in a product that supports your well-being while respecting the environment.
Citicoline Dosing Principles and Rationale
Clinical studies suggest daily doses of 250 to 500 mg of citicoline are effective for cognitive enhancement, with higher doses showing benefits in neuroprotection and recovery [1, 3]. Marco’s Grounds™ adheres to hormetic dosing principles, optimizing citicoline’s effects when combined with other nootropic compounds in our products.
For best results, citicoline is taken in the morning or early afternoon to support sustained mental energy and focus throughout the day.
Citicoline Key Mechanisms
-
Neurotransmitter Support
Boosts acetylcholine production, enhancing memory and learning capacity [1]. -
Neuroprotection
Increases phosphatidylcholine synthesis, supporting cell membrane integrity and neural repair [2]. -
Brain Energy Metabolism
Improves mitochondrial function and ATP production in brain cells, enhancing mental energy [3]. -
Cognitive Enhancement
Promotes synaptic plasticity, improving memory formation and recall [4]. -
Cerebral Blood Flow
Enhances blood flow to the brain, supporting oxygen and nutrient delivery [5].
Synergies with Other Marco’s Grounds™ Ingredients
- Alpha-GPC: Complements acetylcholine production for enhanced focus and memory.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Supports cell membrane health and neuroprotection.
- Rhodiola Crenulata: Boosts mental resilience and energy during cognitive tasks.
- L-Theanine: Enhances focus and promotes a calm, alert state.
References
- Conant, R., & Schauss, A. G. (2004). Therapeutic applications of citicoline for stroke and cognitive dysfunction in the elderly: A review of the literature. Alternative Medicine Review, 9(1), 17-31.
- Secades, J. J., & Frontera, G. (1995). CDP-choline: Pharmacological and clinical review. Methods and Findings in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, 17(Suppl B), 1-54.
- Grieb, P. (2014). Citicoline: A food beneficial for patients suffering from a wide range of neurological disorders. Nutrients, 6(7), 2731-2747.
- Saver, J. L. (2008). Citicoline: Update on a promising and widely available agent for neuroprotection and neurorepair. Review of Neurology, 164(10), 872-874.
- Babb, S. M., et al. (2002). Citicoline enhances frontal lobe bioenergetics as measured by phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy. NMR in Biomedicine, 15(1), 45-50.
