Top 5 Supplements to Stay Sharp This School Year

Back-to-school season means early mornings, long study sessions, packed schedules and for many high school and university students, a lot of mental multitasking. If you’re feeling foggy, overwhelmed, or just low on brainpower, the right nutrients can help support better focus, memory, and mental stamina. 

Here are five student-friendly supplements that can help you stay sharp, energized, and calm as you head into a new school year. 

B Vitamins: Brain Fuel for Busy Students 

B vitamins - especially B6, B12, and folate are essential for brain health, mood balance, and energy production. They help your brain create key neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which support focus, motivation, and a stable mood. 

During times of stress (like midterms or exams), your body burns through B vitamins more quickly. A daily B-complex supplement can help support mental stamina and reduce brain fog - especially if your diet isn’t as balanced as it could be. 

Choose a B-complex with “methylated” forms (like methylfolate and methylcobalamin) for better absorption such as NFH B-COMPLEX SAP)

Omega-3s (Fish Oil or Algae Oil): For Focus and Brain Health 

Your brain loves healthy fats - especially DHA, a type of omega-3 found in fish oil (or algae oil for vegetarians and vegans). DHA helps support brain development, focus, memory, and even mood. 

If you’re not eating fatty fish like salmon a few times a week, consider an omega-3 supplement to help support clearer thinking and concentration. Choose between  

NFH High-DHA SAP, or its plant-based counterpart, NORDIC NATURALS ALGAE OMEGA.

L-Theanine: Calm Focus Without the Crash 

If you’re leaning on coffee or energy drinks to get through the day, consider supplementing with L-theanine. This amino acid, naturally found in green tea, promotes a state of calm focus, without making you sleepy. When paired with caffeine (like in matcha or green tea), it smooths out the jitters and improves attention. 

Bioclinic Calm Pro chewable l-theanine tablets are perfect for staying focused during lectures, studying, or writing papers - without the wired feeling. 

Magnesium: A Must for Mood, Sleep, and Stress 

Magnesium plays a role in over 300 processes in the body including calming the nervous system, reducing muscle tension, and supporting sleep. 

If you feel anxious, restless, or have trouble winding down at night, magnesium (especially glycinate or threonate forms) can help regulate your mood and improve sleep which are both key for focus and mental sharpness during the day. 

Try CanPrev Magnesium Bis-glycinate or Provita Magnesium Threonate, both from Canadian brands.  

Lion’s Mane Mushroom: Gentle Brain Support for Memory & Learning 

Lion’s mane is a natural mushroom that’s been shown to improve memory, learning, and focus over time. It’s a gentle, safe option for young adults looking for long-term cognitive support without stimulants. 

It won’t give you a sudden burst of energy, but over weeks of consistent use, it can help you feel more mentally clear and focused. 

Consider Host Defense Lion’s Mane supplement to get the benefits of Lion’s Mane in a convenient, gluten-free veggie capsule.

Don’t Forget the Basics: Diet & Lifestyle for Better Focus 

Supplements absolutely help - but they work best when paired with good foundational habits. Here are a few diet and lifestyle strategies students shouldn’t overlook: 

Start with Blood Sugar Balance 

Spikes and crashes in blood sugar can lead to brain fog, irritability, and poor concentration. To keep your energy and focus steady: 

• Don’t skip breakfast and opt for something protein-rich like eggs, Greek yogurt, or a smoothie with protein powder. 

• Avoid sugary snacks and energy drinks. Instead, reach for balanced snacks like trail mix, nut butter on whole-grain toast, or hummus with veggies. 

• Include fiber-rich carbs (like oats, quinoa, or fruit) and healthy fats (like avocado or nuts) to keep your brain fueled longer. 

Hydration = Mental Clarity 

Dehydration, even when mild, can impact memory and focus. Make sure to drink enough water throughout the day - especially if you’re drinking caffeine. 

Student tip: Keep a reusable water bottle in your bag or on your desk to make sipping easy. 

Sleep Smarter 

Late-night studying may feel productive, but chronic sleep deprivation tanks focus and memory. Aim for 7–9 hours per night and try to keep a consistent sleep schedule - even on weekends. 

Trouble sleeping? Wind down with a magnesium supplement paired with screen-free time), and consider a herbal tea like chamomile or lemon balm. 

Move Your Body 

Even a 20-minute walk can boost circulation to the brain, improve mood, and increase mental clarity. Try to fit in light exercise between study blocks to refresh your focus. 

Set Up a Distraction-Free Study Zone 

It’s hard to stay focused if you’re constantly checking your phone or dealing with background noise. Try using productivity apps or noise-cancelling headphones to help maintain your concentration. 

As you head into a new school year, remember that supporting your brain is just as important as organizing your schedule or stocking up on supplies. These student-friendly supplements can help you stay focused, energized, and resilient - without relying on energy drinks or overloaded coffee habits. 

And don’t forget: No supplement can replace the basics. Getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, moving your body, and eating balanced meals will always be the foundation of mental performance. 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, dietary changes, or supplementation.