Acetyl L-Carnitine
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) is clearly one of the most extensively researched brain nutrients, with a proven ability to enhance and revive brain and mental energy. This powerful antioxidant can cross the blood-brain barrier, where it plays a role in the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine as well as supporting healthy blood flow to the brain.
ALC is a combination of the amino acid L-Carnitine attached to an acetyl group, thereby making ALC fat-soluble to cross the blood-brain barrier, whereas unattached L-Carnitine does not.
ALC has been shown to reduce the accumulation of damaged fats in the brain and on the skin (brown spots). ALC supports healthy metabolism of fats, as well as thyroid and leptin function. Proper energy metabolism for the brain is vital since it makes up 20% of the body's energy consumption. This may be significant for ADHD and may ease autistic “stimming”, Alzheimer’s, cognitive disorders, memory loss, mental fatigue, and mitochondrial and neurotransmitter challenges.
ALC is found in high concentrations in the brain, nerves, heart, muscles, liver, and sperm cells. Research shows that ALC increases the natural production of both serotonin and dopamine and provides improved tolerance to stress. ALC also increases levels of compounds such as acetylcholine, the primary neurotransmitter needed for memory function and to enhance the “feel good” chemicals. As such, it is one of the most valuable compounds that may help relieve depression.
ALC has various properties, including restorative or even protective actions against aging processes and neurodegeneration. In simpler terms, this means that ALC has a vital role in maintaining brain function as we age. It is now known that ALC levels decline with age, thereby establishing ALC as a powerful anti-aging nutrient.
The heart derives 70% of its energy from fat, which cannot be burned without carnitine, making it a crucial heart nutrient. ALC has been found helpful in the treatment of mitral valve prolapse, angina, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiomyopathy, and congestive heart failure. Carnitine is also one of the most essential nutrients for lowering cholesterol and triglycerides.
With the fatty acids being metabolized by the cells more efficiently, there is naturally an increase in electron flow that goes along with it; that may mean an increase in oxidative stress. Many practitioners add anti-oxidants like Vita LF Powder or Capsules, NAC Forte, or Glutathione GSH Liposome.
