Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) enhances cognitive function and energy by crossing the blood-brain barrier more easily.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is a synthetic derivative of L-Carnitine, modified with an acetyl group to improve its bioavailability and ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. It is used as a dietary supplement for its potential benefits related to cognitive function, neuroprotection, mood enhancement, energy support, and peripheral neuropathy relief. While generally safe, potential side effects include gastrointestinal issues, restlessness, and, rarely, fishy body odor. More research is needed to fully elucidate its mechanisms of action and long-term effects.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
500-2500mg daily, typically divided into 2-3 doses
Source Type
synthetic
Production Process
ALCAR is synthesized chemically by attaching an acetyl group to L-Carnitine.
Use Type
Inside BodyPotential Benefits
Enhances mental processes involved in thinking, learning, and remembering, including memory, attention, focus, and processing speed. Benefits range from improved mental clarity to significant enhancements in cognitive abilities, especially in those with cognitive decline.
Mood improvement involves enhancing positive emotional states and reducing negative ones, leading to increased happiness, reduced anxiety, and improved emotional stability. This is achieved by influencing neurotransmitter levels, reducing inflammation, and supporting a healthy stress response.
Focus is the ability to concentrate on a specific task while filtering distractions, leading to improved productivity and cognitive performance. It can be enhanced through diet, supplements, lifestyle changes, and medication.
Cognitive enhancement improves mental performance by boosting memory, attention, and processing speed. It works by promoting neuronal health and protecting against cognitive decline.
Neuroprotection aims to protect the brain and nervous system from damage and degeneration by preventing neuronal cell death, reducing inflammation, and enhancing synaptic plasticity. Strategies include lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplementation, and pharmacological interventions to mitigate effects of aging, neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, and traumatic brain injury.
ALCAR may relieve peripheral neuropathy symptoms, such as pain and numbness, by improving nerve function. It is potentially effective for diabetic and chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.
ALCAR boosts energy by transporting fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. This can result in increased physical energy and reduced fatigue.
Possible Side Effects
Insomnia is a sleep disorder involving difficulty falling or staying asleep, leading to non-restorative sleep. It can be triggered by various factors and can result in daytime fatigue and impaired cognitive function.
Restlessness involves an inability to relax or stay still, manifesting as fidgeting, pacing, or difficulty concentrating. It can be caused by psychological or physiological factors and can impact daily life.
Gastrointestinal issues include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and vomiting, potentially stemming from altered gut motility, microbiota changes, or irritation. While often mild, persistent symptoms necessitate evaluation, and contributing factors like pre-existing conditions should be considered.
L-Carnitine, especially at high doses, may cause a fishy body odor due to the metabolism of trimethylamine. This is more likely in individuals prone to trimethylaminuria.
Scientific Evidence
Studies on cognitive function in elderly individuals, research on neuroprotective properties in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, clinical trials on peripheral neuropathy, and investigations into mitochondrial function and energy metabolism.
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