WELLNESS
9
Brain drink boosts performance
Writes Ruby Harfield
A
New Zealand company has created a popular and unique product to help boost brain function and performance. Ārepa describes itself as New Zealand’s leading brain food company which exists to make brains work better. Co-founders Angus Brown and Zac Robinson both lost a friend to mental health and grandparents to brainrelated illnesses and wanted to make a drink for the brain that was natural, caffeine-free, helped to reduce stress while enhancing mental performance as well as being good for cognition in the long term. Brown says after much research, hard mahi and a bit of luck, they created Ārepa, a range of scientifically developed and proven natural products which improve the health and performance of the brain. “In our current society, the demand on our brains is higher than ever before. “We understand a lot about our bodies, but we’re not nearly as engaged with our brains, nor equipped with tools to improve its health and performance. “We saw this problem and set out to find a solution.” He says the formula for the brain drink is the first of its kind to improve mental performance and focus from a
natural juice (blackcurrants) without the use of caffeine. “This was found through a clinical study at the University of Auckland that was published in the Journal of Antioxidants.” They worked with Professor Andrew Scholey, one of the world’s top neuroscientists to develop the formula. “We now have thousands of fans who rely on our drink to help them perform for key moments and tasks in their day or to help improve their brain health and function.” Robinson said since starting in 2018, Ārepa has grown from being in a handful of stores in New Zealand to being found in more than 1500 supermarkets, convenience stores and hospitality outlets across Aotearoa, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong. “People are looking for natural ways to improve their health and brains without the use of caffeine, it’s important there are proven alternatives out there. “We are now the fastest selling health drink in New Zealand supermarkets. “Ārepa has created a new category of drink, functional brain drinks, which has been featured in global trend reports for the last three years and showcases New Zealand as a
leader in innovation on the world stage.” Long term benefits may include: • Cognitive Performance including improved mental performance, enhanced memory, fights mental fatigue and increases focus. This comes from L-theanine which is anxiolytic, helping promote mental wellbeing and improving sleep quality. L-theanine also increases alpha brain wave activity, resulting in a relaxed, alert and focused mental state. • Neuroprotection such as slowing of the neural ageing processes, reduction of cognitive decline and delays onset of neurodegenerative diseases. This comes from the polyphenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins which are all antioxidants that prevent inflammation and reduce neuronal cell death. • Mood & Mental Health such as reduction in anxiety and stress, increased feelings of calm and improved sleep quality. This happens as anthocyanins inhibit MAO enzymes, reducing oxidative stress and positively affecting neurotransmitters. While flavonoids regulate cell survival factors, gene expression and improve cerebral blood flow, aiding in neuronal growth and differentiation.
Co-founders of Ārepa Angus Brown (left) and Zac Robinson. Photo/Supplied
