Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Acetyl-L-carnitine is a natural amino acid found in read meat, especially lamb. During vigorous exercise, the body converts L-carnitine into Acetyl-L-carnitine in order to metabolize fat into energy. Acetyl-L-carnitine and is an important nutrient for many different functions of the human body.
What is Acetyl-L-carnitine?
Starting in the liver and the kidneys, Acetyl-L-carnitine is an amino acid produced naturally by the human body and stored in the brain, heart, muscles, and sperm. Sometimes, however, the body cannot produce enough Acetyl-L-carnitine on its own, so supplementation may be necessary. Acetyl-L-carnitine is also a powerful antioxidant.
Acetyl-L-carnitine Benefits
Acetyl-L-carnitine can be taken to help resolve a number of conditions and disorders, including:
- Improving certain brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s, general memory loss, reduced brain function from alcoholism or Lyme disease, and poor brain circulation
- Reducing the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy and possibly regenerating nerves damaged by the disease
- Reducing the symptoms of an overactive thyroid
- Increasing male fertility by improving sperm motility
- Assisting weight loss and exercise by reducing fatigue and body fat while increasing muscle mass
- Improving heart conditions such as angina, heart attack, and heart failure
Acetyl-L-carnitine Side Effects
For the most part, Acetyl-L-carnitine is considered a fairly safe supplement with minimal side effects and drug interactions. However, people with a history of under-active thyroid or seizure disorders should be careful and discuss Acetyl-L-carnitine supplementation with their doctor first. Acetyl-L-carnitine is also known to interact negatively with Acenocoumarol (Sintrom) and Warfarin (Coumadin).
How Does Acetyl-L-carnitine Help Brain Function?
Acetyl-L-carnitine is a powerful antioxidant which is also capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. Because of these properties, this amino acid is essential in helping brain cells stay active and healthy. Acetyl-L-carnitine can help improve memory in anyone, whether they’re a healthy adult or someone afflicted with Alzheimer’s. And some studies suggest that Acetyl-L-carnitine may be capable of regenerating nerves damaged by diabetic neuropathy.
Even though Acetyl-L-carnitine has a plethora of benefits, we’re pleased with its proven effects as a brain and nervous system revitalizer. Have you been wondering about which brain supplements have Acetyl-L-carnitine? Take a look at our brain supplement reviews to find out!
