Best Dietary Supplements for Writers

Angela OgeMotivation, Writing, Writing Tips

Writing is a rollercoaster; there is the struggle of staying focused and energized while spending hours at a desk and the excitement of seeing your ideas transform into words on the page. Despite the rewarding nature of the craft, the demands of juggling multiple projects, overcoming writer’s block, and maintaining a consistent creative flow can be challenging. That’s why taking care of your mind and body is essential to enhance productivity and maintain a creative flow. One way to achieve this is by incorporating dietary supplements into your routine. 

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best supplements you need to give your body and brain a little extra boost. These supplements can help to enhance your focus, creativity, and overall well-being as a writer. Keep reading to discover how to take your writing to the next level.

What are dietary supplements?

Dietary supplements are products that bridge the nutritional gaps in your diet. This means they provide extra nutrients like vitamins, minerals, amino acids, etc, that may be lacking or insufficient in your regular diet. The most common forms of dietary supplements are liquids, powders, capsules, and tablets.

The general idea for taking dietary supplements is to complement and enhance your overall nutritional intake and not replace a healthy diet. 

Can supplements help me write better?

Dietary supplements contain essential nutrients and compounds that may support cognitive function and mental clarity. While the direct benefits of these supplements are not specific to writing, maintaining optimal levels in your body can help your writing journey. 

Contrary to popular belief, popping a pill is not a magic solution for becoming a better writer. The most effective “supplement” for any writer remains disciplined and consistent writing practice coupled with a healthy lifestyle that promotes mental clarity and creativity. Supplements only complement these efforts to help you attain creative flow and peak performance in writing.

Keep in mind that the results of supplements on brain health can vary from person to person. Genetics, health conditions, lifestyle, psychological factors, and even the quality and dosage influence its effectiveness. So what works effectively for one writer may not have the same effect for you. This is why you should seek advice from a healthcare professional before incorporating them into your routine.

How do they actually help you write better and be more creative? (has it been scientifically proven?)

Creativity in writing involves generating fresh, innovative, and unique ideas that stand out from general concepts. Like every other skill, the process of writing has its demands. While the ideas originate in the mind, the actual act of writing is a physical activity. There must be a harmonious balance between the physical and mental demands of writing, as they both play essential roles in creativity. They include critical thinking, organization of thoughts, concentration, discipline, perseverance, problem-solving, emotional well-being, and time management. 

These can come off as exhausting daily experiences if your income depends on writing as you have to spend hours at a computer, straining your eyes constantly, and keeping up with the ever-growing task list.

The scientific evidence on dietary supplements and improved writing and creativity is limited. However, some ingredients commonly found in these supplements may have potential benefits that will help you meet the demands of writing, as they provide a comfortable writing experience where you can achieve a state of flow, become absorbed, and be focused on your work, leading to greater creativity and productivity.

What are some of the best supplements for writers?

The following dietary supplements can contribute to motivating and maintaining a continuous flow of ideas while writing.

B Vitamins

B Vitamins consist of eight different vitamins, most of which are from animal products. A healthy diet can generally provide these essential nutrients. However, certain dietary restrictions, such as being a vegetarian, may limit the intake of these vitamins. In such cases, supplements are necessary to replace these nutrients. 

B vitamins are crucial for overall well-being. For writers, their importance lies in their ability to promote brain health and cognitive function, enhancing mental clarity and focus for crafting compelling stories. These qualities ensure effective communication and aid your readers’ understanding of your ideas.

Without sufficient B vitamins, you may suffer

  • Mood swings
  • Reduced mental alertness
  • Poor stress management
  • Decreased cognitive function
  • Lack of energy

As a result, your writing may appear disjointed, with disconnected thoughts and a lack of smooth flow.

Incorporating B vitamins into your diet can enhance energy levels, reduce stress and depression, and improve memory function. This creates an optimal state of mind for generating new ideas and innovative thinking.

L-theanine

There is a long-standing connection between writers and tea because it stimulates the senses and creates a relaxed state of mind, which enhances creativity and inspiration. One such tea is green tea which contains the amino acid L-theanine, antioxidants, and caffeine. 

Studies have shown that L-Theanine increases alpha brainwave activity which is associated with relaxed alertness and improved focus. This makes it an ideal supplement because a state of relaxed alertness can assist in reducing stress and anxiety, helping you generate ideas more effectively and allowing your thoughts to flow more freely.

Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral that the body needs to function at its best. Its role includes energy production and regulating blood sugar and blood pressure.

Research has shown that magnesium can reduce the frequency of certain factors related to the writing process or contributed by the lifestyle of a writer. These challenges can significantly impact your productivity and overall writing experience. 

Magnesium improves mental health, assists in sleep regulation, relieves migraine headaches, supports the heart, and strengthens the bones. Incorporating magnesium into your diet will help you experience less anxiety, stress, and depression, which is crucial for optimal focus during writing.

MCT Oil

I call it the writer’s fuel of creativity. Natural sources of MCTs include coconut oil and palm kernel oil, but they also exist as supplements. Unlike other fats with long chains of carbon atoms, MCTs have a shorter carbon chain length. This is why they are readily absorbed and transported directly to the liver. The liver converts them to ketones, a ready-to-use energy for various tissues in the body, including the brain.

This dietary supplement is an excellent choice for writers because it can improve cognitive function and increase energy levels in the brain. This will enhance your concentration and productivity for longer periods and help you put more words on the page. You can easily incorporate it into your diet by adding it to your tea or coffee.

Caffeine

Coffee is popularly known for its benefits of getting tasks done. The perk of coffee is caffeine, a natural stimulant found in coffee beans. It does a great job boosting alertness, focus, and energy, hence why it is a popular choice for writers.

Writers, like everyone else, are susceptible to adenosine a naturally occurring compound in the brain that plays a crucial role in regulating sleep and wakefulness. Spending extended periods engaged in creative work or intense concentration causes adenosine to accumulate. This can contribute to mental fatigue and decreased alertness. Caffeine temporarily prevents the effects of adenosine by blocking its receptors, thereby providing a sense of wakefulness and increased mental clarity.

Coffee is also known to increase dopamine levels in the brain, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter associated with feelings of pleasure and motivation. This is crucial as emotions play a role in writing, and being in a good mood can fuel the creative flow and motivate you to churn out engaging stories.

Coffee intake can be easily addictive. Excessive consumption may lead to side effects such as anxiety, headaches, and disrupted sleep patterns. You can avoid this by consuming caffeine in moderation and being aware of personal tolerance levels.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are fats in the body and can be found in fatty fish, seafood, and supplements like fish oil, flaxseed oil, and algal oil. They play a vital role in heart health, reducing inflammation and aiding rheumatoid arthritis. 

Omega-3 fatty acids are like brain superheroes. You may enjoy the benefit of recalling important information and details of your story because this supplement helps boost memory. Next, it provides a more serene creative journey by easing anxiety and stress.

They also have a remarkable impact on good sight and sleep. A healthy vision is essential for comfort and clarity while you read and type away.  Those long hours you spend in front of the screen do a lot of damage to the eyes. Omega-3 supplements support the retina, the part of the eye responsible for vision, by maintaining the integrity of its cells.

Ginkgo biloba

This ancient medicinal tree has its leaf extracts used as a herbal supplement. It contains flavonoids and terpenoids, which are natural antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies show that this herbal supplement can improve blood circulation to the brain, thus enhancing cognitive functions and mental clarity required during writing sessions. Adequate blood flow to the brain helps enhance focus and concentration, allowing you to stay engaged at work for longer periods without distractions.

Ginkgo biloba is also well known for reducing anxiety and depression due to its potential mood-regulating effects. This contributes to a calmer and more positive mindset when facing creative challenges.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a popular essential nutrient that offers a range of health benefits. Besides its role in immunity and wound healing, it is also crucial for brain health as it improves mental alertness, memory retention, and focus.

Vitamin C promotes the production of norepinephrine and serotonin, which are neurotransmitters essential for attention and mood regulation. Having adequate levels of vitamin C will likely increase your motivation at work and aid your ability to focus on tasks that require sustained attention, such as writing.

Melatonin

Melatonin is the ‘“time-to-sleep hormone” that is naturally produced by the body to regulate sleep-wake cycles. It is often used as a supplement to help improve sleep quality and treat insomnia. Melatonin can be beneficial in promoting a healthy sleep routine and ensuring an adequate amount of rest.

Adequate sleep is crucial for brain function, including cognitive processes such as creativity, concentration, and memory. Melatonin can help you maintain optimal brain function and enhance overall productivity by regulating sleep patterns and promoting better quality sleep.

Rhodiola Rosea

The adaptogens in Rhodiola Rosea are beneficial for writers often faced with stress and fatigue caused by deadlines and creative blocks. This natural herb is known for its adaptogenic properties that help the body adapt to stress. The overwhelming pressure from deadlines can affect the creative process and the quality of writing. It leads to distractions, low creativity, and poor writing decisions. 

Rhodiola Rosea may provide a boost in mental energy and focus. Some studies suggest this supplement may improve cognitive function, memory, and overall mental performance. It has also been linked to reducing depression and anxiety symptoms, which is particularly useful for writers.

Vitamin D

The importance of vitamin D extends beyond the teeth, bones, and immunity. The skin produces vitamin D or the “sunshine vitamin” when exposed to sunlight, called vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 supplement is a good choice if you have limited sunlight exposure or poor diet intake caused by certain factors. This can be especially true if you spend long hours indoors writing.

Research has shown that vitamin D3 improves brain function. Without sufficient levels of this vitamin, you may also struggle with memory and problem-solving skills, which are beneficial in writing. 

This supplement can also contribute to a positive mood and improved focus, which is pretty handy when you’re weaving words into stories, helping you manage stress, anxiety, and potential mood fluctuations that can impact creativity and productivity.

Do/did any famous writers use any supplements to help with their writing?

Creative flow and peak performance are never-ending goals of all writers. Hence it is no surprise that many creative minds explore various methods to boost their cognitive function and creativity. It is well-known that many writers have turned to various supplements or practices to support their writing.

For some, the stimulating properties of coffee or tea help them stay alert and energized during long writing sessions. One such example is the renowned French novelist Honoré de Balzac, who famously stated, “Were it not for coffee one could not write, which is to say one could not live” 

Ernest Hemingway and Haruki Murakami are also known for being avid coffee drinkers.

Stephen King also shared insights into his writing habits. In an interview, he revealed, “There are certain things I do if I sit down to write. I have a glass of water or a cup of tea. There’s a certain time I sit down, from 8:00 to 8:30, somewhere within that half hour every morning. I have my vitamin pill and my music, sit in the same seat, and the papers are all arranged in the same places.” 

King’s mention of taking a vitamin pill as part of his writing routine highlights its significance in preparing his mind for the creative process.

You should note that these famous authors’ achievements result from their unwavering dedication and disciplined work ethics. While some may have sought inspiration from supplements like caffeine, it is essential to understand that commitment to the craft is the key to their success.

What other habits will help you write better and be more creative?

Creative writing is nurtured through purposeful habits. These habits are stepping stones towards becoming more creative and ultimately increase your confidence in the long run.

Reading/Writing

This is first on the list because reading and writing are undeniably among the most important and helpful habits for creative writers. Don’t just read, read actively and widely, taking note of the diverse styles and genres, in the works of other writers. This will help expand your knowledge and understanding of the skill and ignite new ideas and approaches for your writing.

Reading makes it easy for you to practice writing. A combination of both can lead to noticeable growth in your writing abilities. You will discover your strengths and weaknesses, develop a unique voice, and improve your writing fluency when you consistently practice writing.

Meditation

Meditation is a mind hack! Even though it may seem quite challenging when you’re just getting started, you’ll probably find your mind wandering a lot, but as you practice it you’ll get better. Regular meditation makes your mind more focused, calm, and receptive, allowing creative ideas to flow effortlessly.

5-10 minutes of daily meditation sessions can work the magic, you can increase the duration as you go on. You can also get started with some apps and guides.

Journaling

Cultivate the habit of keeping a writer’s journal if you always rely on your memory to recall every piece of information. Taking note of important ideas that cross your mind is an excellent practice to adopt. This simple activity can provide you with the confidence of not losing them and prevent you from experiencing the disappointment of forgetting them later on.

Write down your thoughts, observations, and experiences regularly. Journaling allows you to explore your innermost feelings and insights, making it a rich source of inspiration for your creative writing endeavors.

Additionally, writing in a journal can assist you in cultivating a routine of writing frequently, which improves your writing abilities and broadens your imaginative capabilities.

Daily Exercise

As a writer, you may spend a lot of time sitting and typing, which can result in reduced physical activity. In a bid to complete daily writing tasks, many writers overlook the importance of keeping their bodies active and fit.

Exercise keeps the body healthy, and engaging in physical activity boosts circulation and oxygen flow to the brain. Whether it’s a daily walk, yoga, or any form of exercise you enjoy, it can stimulate creative thinking and enhance your mental clarity.

Daily Routine

Setting a daily routine can have a profound impact on enhancing creativity in writing. Your brain becomes accustomed to this routine and is better prepared to enter a state of flow. Setting aside specific times for writing, brainstorming, and other creative activities encourages focus and productivity.

Writing Environment

Create a dedicated and inspiring writing environment. Whether it’s a coffee shop, a well-organized desk, or a quiet room, having a designated writing space can stimulate your creativity and help you get into the writing flow more easily.

Good Sleep

Good sleep is a vital component of optimal cognitive functioning and can have a significant impact on creativity. Adequate sleep also improves cognitive functioning including problem-solving skills and memory retention, which are crucial for creative writing. Furthermore, quality sleep promotes emotional well-being and reduces stress levels, with this you can approach your work with a clear mindset and heightened imagination. Prioritize getting enough quality sleep each night.

Mindful Eating Habits

The stress and pressure from writing can sometimes lead to disrupted eating patterns and in most cases an increase in reliance on convenience foods that are often high in calories. 

Proper nutrition supports brain function and provides the energy you need for sustained creativity. Pay attention to your dietary habits as they can indirectly influence creativity. Incorporate a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats. 

Don’t forget to stay hydrated throughout the day because dehydration can lead to cognitive fatigue and decreased mental sharpness, hindering your creative output.

Watch Movies/Play Music

Both mediums provide a wealth of inspiration, storytelling techniques, and emotional depth that can enhance the creative process. Watching movies allows you to observe diverse characters and their interactions, this will expand your creative horizons and help you discover innovative ways to express your ideas through the written word. Similarly, music can evoke emotions that fuel your writing. 

Conclusion

You can overcome writer’s block, increase your productivity, and maintain mental clarity by incorporating the right supplements into your routine. Supplements, however, should not replace a healthy diet and lifestyle.

To maximize the benefits of these supplements, they should be taken in adequate amounts, as certain combinations or dosages may lead to harmful side effects on the body.

Always consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to determine which dietary supplements are best for your individual needs. 

With the right combination of supplements and healthy habits, you can optimize your writing performance and achieve your goals as a writer.

Angela Oge
Latest posts by Angela Oge (see all)