Acetyl-L-carnitine has shown that it can improve the structure and function of mitochondria, and restore the activity of important enzymes. It protects the neurons and may reduce age-related oxidative stress, which plays a role in the pathogenesis.
Acetyl-L-carnitine can support the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, as well as the nerve's myelin sheaths, supporting the repair of damaged nerve cells and structures. All of this can contribute to the deceleration of mental decline.
Acetyl-L-carnitine is the ideal form of L-carnitine for people who would like to improve their mental performance, memory, attention span, and mood with L-carnitine.
L-carnitine is formed through the splitting-off of the acetyl group, which is responsible for the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where it is utilized for the production of energy (ATP). In principle, L-carnitine can also fulfill other functions which are generally attributed to it, in addition to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
Acetyl-L-carnitine has demonstrated many health-promoting effects, including the following:
- an increase in mental and physical energy
- an improvement in heart and brain function
- an improvement in concentration levels and memory
- an improvement in general mood
- protection of neurons and a reduction of damage by free radicals
- a reduction of the formation of amyloid plaque
- it contributes to the maintenance and restoration of the myelin of the nerve sheaths
- it can decrease symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in diabetics
- it can enhance male fertility
Acetyl-L-carnitine has also shown that it increases the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and serotonin, causing an improvement in depressive conditions. At the same time, decreased values of GABA, a moderation of the neurotransmitters, and increased levels of myoinositol have been determined.
Myoinositol is the most abundant form of inositol and is naturally produced by the body. It is an important component of the cell membrane and plays a key role in many metabolic processes, such as the transmission of cell signals, the metabolism of the nerves, production of phospholipids and energy metabolism.
Approximately 25% of all diabetics suffer from peripheral neuropathy, where a partial dissolution of the myelin layer, which encloses the nerve fibers, is indicated. Those affected experience numbness, tingling, pain, sensitivity to touch and/or pressure on the skin of the lower limbs, as well as a reduction of flexibility.
Studies show that acetyl-L-carnitine may be helpful in improving peripheral neuropathy; however, in these studies, acetyl-L-carnitine was ingested for about a year, in a dosage of 500 to 1000 mg per day.
Due to the increase of myelinated and regenerated fibers, as well as the size of the fibers, the participants experienced reduced pain levels and showed improved nerve conduction speed and partial nerve regeneration. Acetyl-L-carnitine seems to work more effectively on people who have had diabetes for a short time.
Acetyl-L-carnitine can be taken alone for peripheral neuropathy, in combination with bio-active R-lipoic acid, or together with other therapies.
Initially, acetyl-L-carnitine should always be initially taken in a dosage of just 500 mg (1 capsule). The dosage can be increased to the required quantity as needed. The daily dosage should not be ingested all at once but divided into 2 to 3 doses, spread over the day.
The specified standard dosage of 1 capsule three times a day, can be adjusted according to requirements. Older people may need a higher dosage to achieve the same effect as younger people.
For depression, the usual recommended dosage is 1500 to 3000 mg (3 to 6 capsules).
In the case of diabetic neuropathy, a dosage of 1000 to 2000 mg (2 to 4 capsules) is recommended.
To improve sperm quality in men, 2000 to 4000 mg may be required.
Acetyl-L-carnitine should be taken continuously over a minimum period of 3 to 6 months, to ensure the optimal build-up of vital substances. Acetyl-L-carnitine is also suitable for continuous consumption.
People who have a problem with swallowing the capsules, can pull the capsule apart and dissolve the powder in water. The powder tastes sour and may be mixed with fruit juice if preferred.
When taken in the recommended dosage, L-carnitine is very safe, even when consumed over an extended period.
People with sensitive stomachs should take acetyl-L-carnitine with, or after, meals.
The ingestion of acetyl-L-carnitine too late in the evening, can lead to disturbed sleep patterns in some people. In such cases, acetyl-L-carnitine should not be taken in the afternoon or evening.
