Acetyl L-carnitine can help turn fat into energy, it’s also able to cross the blood-brain barrier to support brain energy and function.
The blood-brain barrier is a protective mechanism that blocks pathogens or toxins from passing through the endothelial membrane. Though it is highly selective, often blocking passage of beneficial molecules and compounds, some amino acids, like acetyl-L-carnitine are able to make it through to deliver its brain health benefits.
Once it passes through the blood-brain barrier acetyl L-carnitine helps to promote synthetization of a primary neurotransmitter in the brain known as acetylcholine. Acetylcholine’s primary role is to allow for communication between nerve cells. By boosting acetylcholine synthetization, acetyl L-carnitine plays an essential role in supporting memory health, focus and alertness, improved sleep and muscle contractions.
Acetyl L-Carnitine for Brain Health: As we age, Acetylcholine (ACh), the most abundant neurotransmitter in the brain, declines. Acetyl-L-carnitine helps supports the production of Acetylcholine (ACh), and may support memory, focus and learning as we age.
Studies have focused on an oral dosage of between 1,500-2,000 mg of acetyl L-carnitine for a period of 3 months for memory health.
Acetyl L-Carnitine for Energy: Research has delved into the effectiveness of using acetyl L-carnitine to boost energy as we age, which included a dosage of 2 grams twice daily for 180 days. L-carnitine plays a critical role in energy production by transporting fatty acids into the cell’s mitochondria or “powerhouse of the cell”. Acetyl-L-Carnitine may offer added support for athletes or those with fatigue or low energy.
To Support Male Reproductive Health: To boost testosterone levels in men, research has focused in on 2 grams of acetyl L-carnitine as well as 2 grams of propionyl L-carnitine each day for 6 months.
Healthy weight management: L-carnitine may improve metabolism and is used in healthy weight management programs.
