Table of Contents
Where It Comes From
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is a naturally occurring derivative of the amino acid L-carnitine that plays an important role in energy production by delivering fatty acids into the mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of cells and are burned for energy. The liver and kidneys produce ALCAR, which is also present in trace levels in foods like red meat, fish, and dairy products. Due to its cognitive and neuroprotective properties, people also widely utilize it as a dietary supplement.
What It is Indicated For
People typically consume Acetyl-L-Carnitine to improve cognitive performance, promote brain health, and increase energy levels. It is popular among those who want to improve their mental clarity, memory, and focus, especially as they get older or during times that involve significant mental demand. Furthermore, ALCAR is renowned for its neuroprotective qualities, which make it useful for preventing cognitive decline and preserving a healthy brain.
Key Benefits:
- Cognitive Enhancement: ALCAR has been found to enhance cognitive function, notably in elderly adults and people with cognitive impairments. Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders published a study that found ALCAR supplementation significantly improved memory, attention, and general cognitive performance in patients with mild cognitive impairment and early Alzheimer’s disease.
- Neuroprotection: Acetyl-L-Carnitine reduces oxidative stress, promotes mitochondrial activity, and increases neurotransmitter synthesis, including acetylcholine, which is essential for memory and learning. The Neurobiology of Aging study found that supplementing with ALCAR slowed the progression of cognitive deterioration in older people.
- Energy Production: ALCAR promotes cellular energy production, which can boost physical and mental performance. This makes it especially beneficial for reducing fatigue and boosting mental clarity during times of physical or mental stress. Research in Clinical Therapeutics found that ALCAR increased energy levels and reduced mental and physical weariness in elderly people.
Contraindications
Most people generally find Acetyl-L-Carnitine safe, but those with thyroid diseases or on thyroid hormone replacement therapy should use it with caution as it may interfere with thyroid function. Furthermore, people with a history of seizures should consult a doctor before using ALCAR, as it may lower the seizure threshold in some people.
Warnings
Most people tolerate ALCAR well; however, some may develop moderate side effects such as nausea, stomach upset, restlessness, or headaches, especially with larger doses. It is critical to follow the prescribed dosage on the product label and consult with a healthcare expert if you have any concerns or pre-existing medical conditions.
Dosages
The normal daily dose of Acetyl-L-Carnitine ranges from 500 to 2000 mg, depending on the desired effect and individual demands. Clinical trials frequently employ doses in this range to obtain cognitive and neuroprotective advantages with minimal side effects. Typically, experts advise a daily dose of 1000–1500 mg, spread throughout the day, for cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection.
Products Contained In
Qualia Mind: A powerful nootropic that contains Acetyl-L-Carnitine to improve memory, focus, and overall cognitive performance.
CILTEP: A cognitive enhancement supplement containing Acetyl-L-Carnitine that improves mental clarity and energy levels.
References
1. Montgomery, S. A., Thal, L. J., & Amrein, R. (2003). Meta-analysis of double-blind randomized controlled clinical trials of acetyl-L-carnitine versus placebo in the treatment of mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, 15(2):87–93.
2. Pettegrew, J. W., Klunk, W. E., Panchalingam, K., McClure, R. J., & Stanley, J. A. (1995). Clinical and neurochemical effects of acetyl-L-carnitine in Alzheimer’s disease. Neurobiology of Aging, 16(1), 1–4.
3. Malaguarnera, M., Gargante, M. P., Cristaldi, E., Colonna, V., Messano, M., Koverech, A., & Neri, S. (2007). Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) treatment in elderly patients with fatigue. Clinical Therapeutics, 29(7), 1295–1306.
