Best Supplements for Working Memory (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Working memory is your brain’s ability to temporarily hold and manipulate information—whether you’re solving a problem, following directions, or juggling multiple tasks at once. If you’ve noticed yourself losing track of conversations or struggling to remember what you just read, you’re not alone. The right supplements can help support your brain’s working memory capacity and cognitive processing speed.
We’ve researched the top supplements available on Amazon to help you find products that support working memory function, mental clarity, and focus. Our selections feature ingredients backed by research, from phosphatidylserine and bacopa to magnesium L-threonate and DMAE.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Best Overall: MemoryXL Magnesium L-Threonate — advanced brain-targeted magnesium formula
- Best Value: Nature’s Peak Brain Memory Pills — comprehensive nootropic blend at great price
- Best Premium: NATURELO Whole Food Brain Supplement — clean, plant-based cognitive support
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Ingredients | Form | Servings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MemoryXL Magnesium L-Threonate | Magtein, Phosphatidylserine | Capsules | 60 | Brain-targeted magnesium |
| NATURELO Brain Supplement | Whole food extracts, B vitamins | Capsules | 60 | Natural ingredients |
| Nature’s Peak Brain Pills | Bacopa, Phosphatidylserine, DMAE | Capsules | 60 | Value pricing |
| Focus Factor Original | Bacopa, Huperzine, Vitamins | Tablets | 180 | Clinically tested formula |
| Brain Memory 3X Strength | Bacopa, DMAE, B12 | Capsules | 60 | Triple strength formula |
| Nootropic Focus Enhancement | DMAE, L-Glutamine, EGCG | Capsules | 60 | Mental performance |
| Primal Being Grass-Fed Beef Brain | Grass-fed brain tissue | Capsules | 90 | Ancestral nutrition |
1. MemoryXL Magnesium L-Threonate — Best Overall
- WHAT IT DOES – MemoryXL is a clinically proven brain supplement that helps you Improve clarity & focus, so you stay locked in*. Sharpens attention for better learning and memory*. Perfect for students and young pros who need to perform.
- WHY IT WORKS – MemoryXL is the only stick-pack supplement that combines Magtein. (Magnesium L-Threonate) – a unique form of magnesium that crosses the blood brain barrier, Phosphatidylserine – supports brain cell structure*, and Vitamins C, D & B6 – essential for brain energy and mood.
- WAYS MEMORYXL SUPPORTS YOUR BRAIN – MemoryXL has been clinically proven to enhance the 5 key measure of learning, memory, and cognition by up to 50% after 4 weeks of daily use. This includes Short-Term Auditory Memory by up to 56% – Remember what you hear. Learning & Logic by up to 55% – Process and apply new info faster. Short-Term Visual Memory by up to 51% – Retain what you see. Recall Memory by up to 52% – Retrieve info more easily. Complex Memory by up to 46% – Connect and organize ideas.
- HOW TO USE – Tear open 1 stick pack daily and Mix the Cranberry flavor with water or the unflavored with your favorite 16oz drink. MemoryXL was designed for consumers who prefer not to swallow pills, caregivers, or those on the go. MemoryXL is proven to heighten concentration, mental acuity, and decision-making all with Zero calories and Zero sugar.*
- PERFECT FOR – Adults focused on preventing normal age-related cognitive decline. Professionals balancing family and career in need of focus and memory support. Women experiencing brain fog from natural occurring hormonal changes. College Students looking to improve memory and concentration.
MemoryXL delivers the most bioavailable form of magnesium specifically designed to cross the blood-brain barrier and support cognitive function.
This formula combines Magtein (the patented form of magnesium L-threonate) with phosphatidylserine and other brain-supportive nutrients. Unlike standard magnesium supplements, magnesium L-threonate is uniquely capable of elevating brain magnesium levels, which supports synaptic density and neural communication critical for working memory.
What We Like
- Uses patented Magtein for superior brain absorption
- Combines multiple memory-supporting ingredients
- Designed specifically for cognitive enhancement rather than general supplementation
What Could Be Better
- Higher price point than basic magnesium supplements
- Requires consistent daily use for best results
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a magnesium supplement specifically formulated to support working memory and brain function, MemoryXL’s targeted formula is worth the investment.
2. NATURELO Whole Food Brain Supplement — Best Premium
- MEMORY SUPPLEMENT FOR BRAIN HEALTH: Naturelo Brain Blend is a brain health supplement for memory and focus support, assisting with recalling words and retaining facts can become more challenging with age. Naturelo formula includes BacoMind(R), a standardized Bacopa extract, which has been clinically shown to enhance memory and learning in older adults.
- FOCUS SUPPLEMENT: Naturelo cognitive health supplement helps you stay on task without the need for stimulants providing you with natural mental energy support. Naturelo stimulant-free formula features Brain berry(R), a standardized, high potency Aronia berry extract, which has been clinically shown to help support concentration and brain fitness.
- BRAIN HEALTH SUPPLEMENT: Essential vitamins like B complex and vitamin C help maintain brain health and support a healthy mood. Naturelo Brain Health vitamin formula includes high potency B12, an especially vital brain nutrient for older adults.
- BRAIN HEALTH SUPPLEMENTS FOR ADULTS: Naturelo brain support supplement contains botanicals such as lion’s mane, turmeric, blueberry, and eleuthero, which are rich in antioxidants that can cross the blood-brain barrier and protect cells against free radicals as a result of oxidative stress.
- JUST THE GOOD STUFF: Naturelo believes the best supplements come from nature, not from a lab. This plant-based supplement is non-GMO and vegan-friendly, with no preservatives, coloring, or flavoring, and no dairy or soy.
NATURELO takes a clean, whole-food approach to brain health with plant-based ingredients and no synthetic additives.
This premium formula features whole food-based vitamins, botanical extracts, and nutrients that support memory, focus, and overall cognitive function. You’ll find ingredients like bacopa monnieri, ginkgo biloba, and a comprehensive B-vitamin complex sourced from whole foods rather than isolated synthetics.
What We Like
- Uses whole food and plant-based ingredients
- Free from GMOs, soy, gluten, and common allergens
- Comprehensive formula supporting multiple aspects of brain health
What Could Be Better
- Premium pricing reflects high-quality sourcing
- Some users prefer standardized extracts over whole food blends
Bottom Line: For those who prioritize natural, whole food-based supplements, NATURELO offers premium cognitive support with clean, carefully sourced ingredients.
3. Nature’s Peak Brain Memory Pills — Best Value
- Brain Memory & Focus Support: Power up your brain with our advanced brain memory pills designed for clarity, focus, and alertness, offering brain memory support
- Best Memory Supplements with Nootropics: Featuring powerful nootropics like Bacopa Monnieri, Phosphatidylserine, and DMAE, this brain supplement supports brain memory health
- Brain Supplement Capsules: Our brain vitamins and memory vitamins include B12, Vitamin C, this brain health supplement supports long term memory support
- Premium Memory Supplement: Our supplement formula is a top choice in memory supplements, every brain capsule is third party tested for quality
- Brain Memory Supplement Pills: brain memory adults and bacopa ginko biloba capsules blend cerebro dmae el energy extra fog for cerebro monnieri neuro memoria men nootropic para pastillas phosphatidylserine pills plus seniors strength support vitamina vitaminas vitamins women b12 b6 ginkgo capsule gingko gummy improvement kids alertness cerebra students
This comprehensive nootropic blend delivers proven brain-boosting ingredients at an accessible price point.
Nature’s Peak combines bacopa monnieri, phosphatidylserine, DMAE, and ginkgo biloba with B vitamins to support concentration, clarity, and focus. The 3X strength formula provides higher doses of key ingredients compared to many competitors, making it an excellent value for those seeking comprehensive cognitive support.
What We Like
- Strong doses of proven nootropic ingredients
- Includes both immediate and long-term brain support nutrients
- Excellent price-to-value ratio
What Could Be Better
- Formula includes many ingredients which may be overwhelming for beginners
- Takes several weeks of consistent use to notice full benefits
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for budget-conscious users who want a well-rounded brain supplement without compromising on ingredient quality or dosing.
4. Focus Factor Original — Best Clinically Tested
- #1 PHARMACIST RECOMMENDED MEMORY SUPPLEMENT BRAND - Focus Factor is the #1 Pharmacist Recommended Brand based on the results of the U.S. Pharmacy Times Survey of Pharmacists’ OTC Recommendations for “Memory Support” dietary supplement, 2025-2026.
- COMPLETE MULTIVITAMIN, IMPROVES MEMORY, CONCENTRATION AND FOCUS: Our Original formulation is clinically tested and proven to improve memory, concentration and focus.
- CLINICALLY TESTED RESULTS: A clinical study showed that adults who took the original Focus Factor as directed for six weeks improved their memory, concentration and focus. Focus Factor showed an increase in mean recall of 6.5 words compared to 4.5 word improvement for the placebo group, which indicates a significant beneficial effect on verbal-learning and short-term memory.ncentration and focus.
- NUTRITION FOR THE BRAIN: Our Focus Factor Original brain health supplement contains a powerful combination of vitamins, minerals, and neuro-nutrients that not only deliver nutrition for the brain but can also replace your daily multivitamin.
- QUALITY FORMULA: Our formula is free of artificial colorings, artificial sweeteners, high-fructose corn syrup, and only uses the best ingredients for quality and effective brain support.
Focus Factor is the #1 pharmacist-recommended memory supplement brand with clinical studies backing its effectiveness.
This formula has been clinically shown to improve memory, concentration, and focus after six weeks of consistent use. The study demonstrated a significant increase in word recall compared to placebo, indicating real benefits for verbal learning and short-term memory. It also functions as a complete multivitamin, eliminating the need for a separate daily vitamin.
What We Like
- Backed by clinical research showing memory improvement
- Pharmacist-recommended brand with 20 years of customer trust
- Doubles as a complete multivitamin
What Could Be Better
- Requires multiple tablets per serving
- Contains more vitamins/minerals than some users may want
Bottom Line: For those who want science-backed results and the convenience of an all-in-one supplement, Focus Factor’s proven formula delivers reliable cognitive support.
5. Brain Memory 3X Strength — Best Triple Strength Formula
- Brain Memory & Focus Support: Power up your brain with our advanced brain memory pills designed for clarity, focus, and alertness, offering brain memory support
- Best Memory Supplements with Nootropics: Featuring powerful nootropics like Bacopa Monnieri, Phosphatidylserine, and DMAE, this brain supplement supports brain memory health
- Brain Supplement Capsules: Our brain vitamins and memory vitamins include B12, Vitamin C, this brain health supplement supports long term memory support
- Premium Memory Supplement: Our supplement formula is a top choice in memory supplements, every brain capsule is third party tested for quality
- Brain Memory Supplement Pills by Nature's Peak: brain memory adults and bacopa ginko biloba capsules blend cerebro dmae el energy extra fog for cerebro monnieri neuro memoria men nootropic para pastillas phosphatidylserine pills plus seniors strength support vitamina vitaminas vitamins women b12 b6 ginkgo capsule gingko gummy improvement kids alertness cerebra students
This enhanced-potency formula delivers higher concentrations of key nootropics for more intensive cognitive support.
The 3X strength designation refers to elevated doses of bacopa monnieri, phosphatidylserine, and DMAE compared to standard formulas. You’ll also find vitamin B12 and vitamin C to support neurotransmitter production and protect brain cells from oxidative stress. The formula is designed for those who need stronger support for working memory, concentration, and mental clarity.
What We Like
- Higher doses of proven memory-supporting ingredients
- Third-party tested for quality and purity
- Supports both short-term and long-term memory function
What Could Be Better
- Higher potency may not be necessary for everyone
- Some users may prefer starting with lower doses
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for users who have tried standard-strength supplements and need more intensive cognitive support, or for demanding mental tasks.
6. Nootropic Focus Enhancement — Best for Mental Performance
- Brain supplement - Try our brain health supplement for mental performance with a nourishing mind and memory blend of concentrations supplements including L-glutamine and other botanical extracts
- Nootropic supplement - Feel refreshed with these herbal supplements to fight mental sluggishness and brain fog and improve productivity with our memory pills for brain support for adults and seniors
- Brain pills for memory - Our mental focus supplement supports memory thanks to our natural formula with vitamin B complex plus DMAE bacopa monnieri L-tyrosine EGCG green tea extract bilberry and more
- Herbal formula - Memory support pills with minerals herbs and vitamins for brain health for natural brain support and maturing minds help make our energy and focus supplement ideal for mental clarity
- Premium quality - Natures Craft is committed to providing natural vitamins and supplements using the best non-GMO ingredients with your needs in mind we present our cognitive supplement for adults
This mental performance formula targets brain fog and sluggishness with energizing nootropics and neuroprotective compounds.
The formula features DMAE for neurotransmitter support, L-glutamine for brain fuel, and EGCG from green tea extract for antioxidant protection. It also includes a B-vitamin complex with riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, and folate to support energy metabolism in brain cells. This combination is particularly effective for those who struggle with mental fatigue.
What We Like
- Addresses both cognitive support and mental energy
- Uses herbal extracts alongside synthetic nootropics
- Non-GMO formula from established supplement brand
What Could Be Better
- May provide too much stimulation for sensitive individuals
- Best taken earlier in the day to avoid sleep interference
Bottom Line: Perfect for busy professionals and students who need all-day mental stamina along with working memory support.
7. Primal Being Grass-Fed Beef Brain — Best Ancestral Nutrition
- ✔️ ACCESS PURE BRAIN: Our grass fed beef gelatin capsules contain 100% pure bovine brain with all 3 glands (Hypothalamus, Pituitary, and Pineal). We know you might already consume other healthy organs like liver, bone marrow, heart, etc. Primal Being Grass Fed Beef Brain is designed to enable your most powerful organ by driving bioavailable nutrients found in healthy cattle.
- ✔️ NEW ZEALAND SOURCED: New Zealand is known for its optimal climate and conditions for raising healthy animals. This provides maximum nourishment without any pesticides, hormones or antibiotics.
- ✔️ EASY TO CONSUME: While grass fed beef brain is incredibly beneficial for our health, it is challenging to source and consume regularly. Many organ supplement companies require 6 pills per serving which can be burdensome. Primal Being Beef Brain only requires 3 capsules to equal the optimal dosage of 1500mg.
- ✔️ QUALITY-FOCUSED: Many organ supplements are dried at high temperatures. This causes harm to the delicate nutrients and enzymes. Primal Being Beef Brain is gently freeze dried (desiccated) to preserve the full nutrient profile of the grass fed beef brain.
- ✔️ MANUFACTURED IN THE USA, THIRD PARTY LAB TESTED FOR QUALITY AND CONSISTENCY, GMP CERTIFIED, NO Fillers or Flow agents, Non GMO
For those who follow ancestral or nose-to-tail eating principles, this grass-fed organ supplement provides brain-specific nutrients in their natural form.
This unique supplement contains freeze-dried grass-fed beef brain tissue, which provides phospholipids, omega-3 fatty acids, and other brain-building compounds in bioavailable forms. The organ meat approach aligns with traditional diets that emphasized consuming organs from healthy animals for optimal nutrition.
What We Like
- Provides brain nutrients in natural, whole-food form
- From grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle
- No artificial ingredients or additives
What Could Be Better
- Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
- Unique sourcing may not appeal to all users
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who prefer whole-food supplements and want to support brain health through ancestral nutrition principles.
How to Choose the Best Supplement for Working Memory
Working memory supplements work by supporting the neural pathways and neurotransmitter systems that allow your brain to temporarily hold and manipulate information. When selecting a supplement, you’ll want to consider several key factors to find the right match for your needs.
First, look at the ingredient profile. The most effective working memory supplements typically include phosphatidylserine, which supports cell membrane health and neural communication, or bacopa monnieri, an herb with extensive research showing benefits for memory formation and recall. Magnesium L-threonate deserves special attention because it’s specifically designed to increase brain magnesium levels, which supports synaptic plasticity—your brain’s ability to form new connections.
DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol) is another valuable ingredient that supports acetylcholine production, a neurotransmitter crucial for learning and memory. B vitamins, particularly B6, B12, and folate, support energy metabolism in brain cells and help maintain healthy homocysteine levels, which is important for cognitive function.
Consider whether you want a standalone supplement targeting specific mechanisms or a comprehensive formula that addresses multiple aspects of brain health. Standalone supplements like magnesium L-threonate allow for precise dosing and easy stacking with other supplements, while comprehensive formulas provide convenience and synergistic combinations of ingredients.
Third-party testing is crucial for supplements since the FDA doesn’t regulate them as strictly as medications. Look for products that have been tested by independent laboratories for purity, potency, and contaminant screening. This ensures you’re getting what the label claims without unwanted additives.
Benefits of Working Memory Supplements
Working memory is often called your brain’s mental workspace—it’s where you hold information temporarily while using it to complete tasks, solve problems, or make decisions. Strengthening this cognitive function can have profound effects on your daily life, from professional performance to personal organization.
Enhanced working memory allows you to follow complex instructions more easily, whether you’re learning a new software program at work or following a multi-step recipe. You’ll find it easier to keep track of multiple pieces of information simultaneously, which is essential for tasks like mental math, reading comprehension, and verbal communication.
Many users report improved focus and concentration after several weeks of supplementation. This isn’t surprising since working memory and attention are closely linked—you need to maintain attention on relevant information to keep it in working memory, and strong working memory helps you resist distractions by maintaining clear mental priorities.
The ingredients in quality working memory supplements support brain health through multiple mechanisms. Phospholipids like phosphatidylserine help maintain the integrity of cell membranes, ensuring efficient communication between neurons. Antioxidants protect brain cells from oxidative stress, which can impair cognitive function over time. B vitamins support the production of neurotransmitters and the energy metabolism that powers all brain activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for working memory supplements to work?
Most users notice initial benefits within 2-4 weeks of consistent daily use, with more pronounced effects developing over 8-12 weeks. Ingredients like caffeine or L-theanine may provide same-day effects, but the structural and neurochemical changes that support working memory require consistent supplementation over time. For best results, commit to at least 8 weeks of daily use before evaluating effectiveness.
Can I take working memory supplements with my daily multivitamin?
In most cases, yes, though some brain supplements like Focus Factor already function as complete multivitamins. Check the nutrient levels in both products to ensure you’re not exceeding recommended daily values for any vitamins or minerals. If there’s significant overlap, you may want to choose just one comprehensive formula or use a basic multivitamin alongside a targeted nootropic supplement.
Are there any side effects from working memory supplements?
Quality supplements are generally well-tolerated, but some users experience mild side effects when starting supplementation. These might include headaches, digestive discomfort, or sleep disturbances if taken too late in the day. Starting with half the recommended dose and gradually increasing can help minimize side effects. If you’re taking medications or have health conditions, consult your healthcare provider before adding supplements.
What’s the difference between working memory and long-term memory supplements?
While there’s significant overlap in beneficial ingredients, working memory supplements often emphasize nutrients that support immediate cognitive processing and mental energy, such as B vitamins, choline, and DMAE. Long-term memory supplements may focus more on ingredients that support neuroplasticity and structural brain health, like omega-3 fatty acids and lion’s mane mushroom. Many comprehensive formulas support both types of memory.
Should I cycle working memory supplements or take them continuously?
Most working memory supplements are designed for continuous daily use rather than cycling. The benefits build over time as your brain receives consistent nutritional support. However, if your supplement contains caffeine or other stimulants, you might benefit from occasional breaks to maintain sensitivity. For non-stimulant formulas, continuous use is typically recommended for optimal results.
Can working memory supplements help with ADHD symptoms?
While some ingredients in working memory supplements, particularly phosphatidylserine and omega-3 fatty acids, have been studied for ADHD support, supplements are not a substitute for professional medical treatment. Some individuals with ADHD report improvements in focus and working memory from supplementation, but this varies greatly between individuals. Always work with a healthcare provider when managing ADHD symptoms.
What lifestyle factors complement working memory supplementation?
Supplements work best as part of a comprehensive approach to brain health. Regular aerobic exercise increases blood flow to the brain and supports neuroplasticity. Quality sleep is essential since memory consolidation happens during sleep. Mental challenges like learning new skills, playing strategy games, or practicing mindfulness can strengthen working memory capacity. Managing stress is also crucial, as chronic stress impairs working memory function.
Are expensive working memory supplements worth the higher cost?
Price doesn’t always correlate with effectiveness. Some premium supplements justify their cost with superior ingredient forms (like patented Magtein instead of generic magnesium), higher quality sourcing (like grass-fed organ meats or organic herbs), or more extensive third-party testing. However, many moderately priced supplements offer excellent value with proven ingredients at effective doses. Focus on the ingredient quality, dosing, and testing rather than price alone.
