Acetyl L-Carnitine

Product Code: 00102                Capsules per Bottle: 60

Each size 2 vegetarian cellulose capsule contains:

What is Acetyl L-Carnitine?

Acetyl L-carnitine (ALC; also known as levacecarnine and ALCAR) is an amino acid naturally found in the body that supports energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, cell membrane stability, and the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. ALC has neuroprotective and antioxidant functions, and deficiency has been shown to play a primary role in the development of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in diabetic patients [2]. Supplementary ALC helps to maintain neuroplasticity and supports normal peripheral nervous system function and has been associated with reduced pain associated with peripheral neuropathy [2].

ALC has also shown promise in helping to maintain cognitive function [4], reducing both physical and mental fatigue in the elderly [5], and supports a healthy, balanced mood [6].

How Does Acetyl L-Carnitine Work?

ALC deficiency is a well-known marker in the development of peripheral neuropathy. It appears that an ALC deficit specifically causes damage to the myelin sheath, which normally surrounds and protects nerves [3]. Supplementary ALC however, can increase levels of artemin, nerve growth factor, antioxidant activity, and microvascular protein permeability, as well as induce long-term upregulation of the presynaptic mGlu2 receptors [3]. Through these varying avenues, ALC supplementation induces neuroprotective, neurotrophic, and analgesic effects on the peripheral nervous system [3].

Acetyl-L-carnitine also supports normal memory and cognitive function. The concentration of ALC in the brain has been shown to progressively decrease with memory impairment [7], which is likely related to its role in the production of acetylcholine, which in turn plays a role in the coding of new memories [8]. Supplemental ALC has shown promise for maintaining cognitive function, making up for the natural decline that may occur as we age [4].

What is the Suggested Use for Acetyl L Carnitine?

• To nourish nerve health in both the brain and body. Peripheral neuropathy is more likely to cause noticeable symptoms in the extremities, but ALC nurtures these nerves of the periphery as well as the brain, where the signalling starts. 
• Supports memory and focus. Because there is a parallel between the decline of natural ALC and decline of memory and cognition, supplementary ALC may help to maintain these levels, and slow or prevent decline as we age.

Source Materials: Acetyl L-carnitine is made by chemical synthesis. Cellulose for capsules is derived from softwood tree pulp. All ingredients are vegan and non-GMO.

Allergens:  According to information provided by our suppliers, these capsules are free of the eight major allergens as identified by the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA): Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk, soybeans, shellfish, fish, peanuts, tree nuts.

Recommendations: Use as directed by a healthcare professional.

Precautions: Pregnant or lactating women and individuals taking prescription medications should consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplement.

References:

1. De Grandis D, Minardi C. Acetyl-l-carnitine (levacarnitine) in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. A long-term, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Drugs RD. 2002;3(40:223-31.
2. Li S, Cne X, et al. Effects of acetyl-L-carnitine and methylcobalamin for diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a multicenter, randomized, doulble-blind, controlled trial. J Diabetes Investig. 2016 Sep;7(5):777-85.
3. Veronese N, Sergi G, et al. Effect of acetyl-l-carnitine in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. European Geriatric Medicine. 2017 April; 8(2): 117-122.
4. Kelley B, Knopman D. Alternative medicine and Alzheimer’s disease. Neurologist. 2008 Sept;14(50:299-306.
5. Malaguarnera M, Gargante M, et al. Acetyl L-carnitine (ALC) treatment in elderly patients with fatigue. Arch Gerontol Geriatr. 2008 Mar-Apr;46(2):181-90.
6. Wang Sm, Han C, et al. A review of current evidence for acetyl l-carnitine in the treatment of depression. J Psychiatr Res. 2014 Jun;53:30-7.
7. Cristofano A, Spaere N, et al. Serum levels of acyl-carnitines along the continuum from normal to Alzheimer’s dementia. PLoS One. 2016;11(5):e0155694.
8. Hasselmo M. The role of acetylcholine in learning and memory. Curr Opin Neurobiol. 2006 Dec;16(6):710-715.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.