L-carnitine is an amino acid that is classically known for its role in transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria for energy production. Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALC) is the acetylated form of L-Carnitine. It is the only form demonstrated to cross the blood-brain-barrier. This ability to enter the central nervous system and its ability to upregulate acetylcholine production offers unique advantages for the brain and cognitive function.
ALC has also demonstrated powerful protective effects in the peripheral nervous system. Clinical trials utilizing ALC in cases of nerve damage as a result of anti-retroviral medication have all yielded positive results. Improvements in pain, vibratory perception, nerve function and nerve regeneration have been observed.
Other clinical indications for ALC supplementation include poor sperm motility, male infertility, Peyronie’s disease, cerebral ischemia and insulin resistance. Studies on ALC have been shown to positively affect each of these conditions when appropriately supplemented.
The mechanisms behind ALC’s benefits appear to be multifactorial. ALC has cholinergic action within the body and it is imperative for shuttling fatty acids into the mitochondria for energy production. ALC also stabilizes the cell membrane, increases nerve growth factor levels and inhibits excitotoxicity in the nervous system.
Acetyl L-Carnitine provides 500mg of pure Acetyl-L-Carnitine per capsule to support energy production and mitochondrial function in a wide variety of clinical scenarios. By providing the acetylated form of L-Carnitine, Acetyl L-Carnitine ensures the delivery to, and protection of, both the central and peripheral nervous system.
