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Acetyl L-Carnitine is a supplement that is increasingly being used as a powerful brain booster and memory enhancer.
Researchers have found it can improve mental energy levels while also keeping the brain healthy as we age and even offering measurable benefits to patients with Alzheimer’s and other types of memory loss.
The more commonly used term for Acetyl L-Carnitine is ALCAR. This is a natural dietary supplement derived from L-Carnitine (which is a protein supplement used by bodybuilders and athletes).
ALCAR has the advantage of being able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier enabling it to provide the brain with essential materials it requires to function optimally.
How does Acetyl L-Carnitine affect the brain? Is ALCAR a true cognitive enhancer?
Mental Energy
Brain Function
Memory- Increases mental energy & focus
- Promotes neuron health & anti-aging
- Improves memory, alertness & signalling
Top ALCAR Products* ❯What Is ALCAR, Exactly?
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L-Carnitine is a derivative of the amino acid lysine. Acetyl L-Carnitine is a more bio-available synthesized form of L-Carnitine.
The kidneys and liver naturally produce L-Carnitine, and then it is transported to other tissues such as the brain and heart.
Like L-Carnitine, Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR) works as an antioxidant and promotes the production of glutathione, a free radical scavenger, in cells.
The difference is that ALCAR is able to cross the blood-brain barrier and produce these beneficial results within the brain.
Getting Past the Blood-Brain Barrier
What makes Acetyl L-Carnitine superior to Carnitine is the fact that it can cross over the protective membrane surrounding the brain and target cellular functions within the brain. One problem commonly encountered with supplements which could be useful for better cognitive function is that of crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
This barrier is responsible for maintaining a constant environment for the brain. It does this by keeping foreign substances out and by keeping hormones and neurotransmitters in the rest of the body from entering.
The blood-brain barrier was discovered accidentally when scientists injected blue dye in the bloodstream of an animal. The dye turned tissues throughout the body blue except for tissues in the brain.
Since then, more has been learned about the blood-brain barrier regarding how it keeps certain things out and, perhaps more importantly for our purposes, how to alter some substances in order to allow them to pass through freely.
Acetyl L-Carnitine In the Brain
The effects of ALCAR in the brain include improved memory, mood brightening, increased energy (mental and physical), and a boost in concentration. There is also a neuroprotective capacity inherent to ALCAR related to its capacity to reduce elements of oxidative stress.
Most studies on ALCAR have been rodent based because the genetic and biological make-up of mice closely resembles that of humans. So, what happens once ALCAR enters the brain?
- Contributes to Acetylcholine production. Acetylcholine is an important neurotransmitter for memory formation and consolidation.
- Alters brain energy metabolism
- Protects against neuro-toxic assaults
In addition, ALCAR was shown to increase the levels of the neurotransmitters Noradrenaline in the hippocampal formation, and Serotonin in the cortex. This is consistent with ALCAR’s potential use for depression.
ALCAR’s nootropic effects are most obvious with regards to memory ability and mental energy.
Users report noticing subtle changes with regards to their ability to study and to recall information more readily when taking ALCAR in their daily stack.
ALCAR seems to be most effective when taken in conjunction with other cognitive enhancers such as racetams and Choline supplements. The neuroprotective aspects of ALCAR may have a cumulative effect over time.
Many users say they don’t initially notice any striking effects, but then some event will occur in which they surprise themselves by being able to quickly learn something new or solving a complex problem quickly and efficiently. One such report is as follows:
“I first tried ALCAR 15 or so years ago and was about to give it up when I picked up one of my kids’ puzzles – a “triazzle” – whose pieces were scattered on the floor. I’d never been able to solve it quickly, if at all, but this time as I picked up the pieces I put them in place, solving the puzzle in less than 30 seconds. I decided there might be something to it.”
Research on Acetyl L Carnitine is very promising, and the supplement is widely used for its nootropic effects. The Natural Medicines database has rated Acetyl L Carnitine as Possibly Effective for improving age-related cognitive impair, general cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, and neuropathy. However, at this time, the FDA has not approved ALCAR as a drug to prevent or treat any conditions.
Side Effects
Side effects are not common with Acetyl L Carnitine use, but the most frequently reported are nausea and headache. Gastrointestinal problems can often be offset by taking your supplement with breakfast or lunch. Taking ALCAR later in the day isn’t recommended as it may affect the sleep cycle.
In some cases, if you experience a headache when using ALCAR, it may be offset by using a Choline supplement like Citicoline or Alpha-GPC. Pregnant and nursing women should not take ALCAR, nor should those with seizure disorders, as there is insufficient information on usage safety for these groups.
It is always recommended that you speak with your doctor before beginning any new supplements. Speak to your doctor to learn about proper dosages as well as possible contraindications and interactions ALCAR may have with other supplements or drugs.
ALCAR Summary
Acetyl L-Carnitine is taken as a nootropic supplement in doses ranging from 200mg – 500mg daily. It is known to provide memory support, enhance concentration, and boost mental energy.
Scientists are excited about the possibilities of using this nutrient to improve memory and brain health. It has already shown success in clinical trials on patients with certain cognitive impairments.
This supplement may also be effective for individuals with ADHD and ordinary folks who would like to focus better and increase their intelligence. The effects of Acetyl L-Carnitine on the brain are sometimes described as subtle, but may be quantifiable if working with brain training games or programs.
As research continues into Acetyl L-Carnitine and its effects on the brain, it is likely we will learn more about the specific mechanisms of action for this supplement.
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Article last updated on: March 13th, 2018 by Nootriment
1 Comment
Eu tenho tdha e pude notar a diferença quando faço o uso da acetil carnitina ou seja , ela deixa mais focado deixando a memoria mais fluida .
Pra mim o resultado e super positivo .