INFORMATION ON N-ACETYL-L-CARNITINE

N-Acetyl-L-Carnitine or ALCAR is an acetylated form of the amino acid L-Carnitine, a naturally occuring derivative of the amino acid Lysine.

Because ALCAR contains an acetate molecule, it differs slightly from L-Carnitine and is believed to be more readily absorbed by the body, reaching the blood stream more quickly, thus enhancing bioavailability.

ALCAR is thought to have neuro-protective properties, protecting the nervous system and mitochondria, which are the cells, responsible for transporting energy around the body. It is often used to increase mental alertness, reduce neurological decline and chronic fatigue, and has been studied to help address symptoms of Alzheimers, depression, Parkinson's disease, stroke and Peyronie's disease.

As a precursor for the neurotransmitter Acetylcholine, ALCAR supplementation can play a role in memory formation, learning capacity and overall cognition.

Besides producing fuel for mental and physical energy, it is also involved in different physiological processes, regulating functions from muscle movement, to heart and brain operations.

ALCAR supplementation is considered promising to repair damage from diabetic neuropathy (a diabetic complication impairing nerves and leading to pain), improving insulin sensitivity, lowering blood sugar, improving blood vessel and cardiac health, and helping with male infertility.

It affects fat metabolism, helps to lower cholesterol levels, and functions as an antioxidant through promoting the production of glutathione.

How it works:

N-Acetyl-L-Carnitine occurs naturally in the body and is synthesized from the amino acid, L-Carnitine which is metabolised from Lysine and Methionine.

ALCAR is made in the liver and kidneys and then transported to other tissues like the brain, heart, muscle tissue and sperm.

It is involved in energy and lipid metabolism, helps prevent oxidation of the mitochondria and enhances acetylcholine production, which improves communication between neurons.