Support for Mental and Physical Energy

Acetyl L-Carnitine Background and Benefits

Acetyl-L-carnitine is an acetylated derivative of L-carnitine. It is an amino acid that is produced mainly by animals and is an essential component of cellular metabolism, especially muscle movement, hand eart and brain function. Acetyl-L-carnitine is found only in animal products, especially red meat. An acetyl group is transferred from acetyl-coenzyme A (CoA) to L-carnitine in the mitochondria of cells, especially in the liver and kidneys, during physical exertion. This process results in the conversion of acetyl-CoA to CoA and of L-carnitine to acetyl-L-carnitine. The enzyme carnitine O-acetyltransferase is also required to catalyze this reaction.

The acetyl-L-carnitine is then transported outside the mitochondria, where it provides chemical energy as it breaks back down into L-carnitine and an acetyl group. The L-carnitine is then transported back into the mitochondria to repeat the cycle. Excess acetyl-CoA can inhibit this process.

In addition to its use in the storage and transport of chemical energy, acetyl-L-carnitine also has a significant antioxidant effect. This effect is due to the role of acetyl-L-carnitine in glutathione, which scavenges free radicals.

Acetyl-L-carnitine is also a common dietary supplement. The main advantage of using Acetyl-L-Carnitine instead of L-Carnitine is that Acetyl-L-Carnitine has a high bioavailability.

Uses of Acetyl-L-Carnitine

Supporting healthy energy levels is one of the most common reasons for taking Acetyl-L-Carnitine. Other uses of this supplement include support for cognitive function, connective tissue, and the nervous system.

Signs of a possible need for acetyl- L-carnitine

Athletes are one of the groups most likely to need acetyl-L-carnitine supplements, especially if they are long-distance runners or bodybuilders. The most common signs that acetyl-L-carnitine may be of benefit to you include chest and muscle discomfort. Acetyl-L-carnitine deficiency may lead to low blood pressure and fatigue. Mental health conditions that may benefit from acetyl-L-carnitine include low mood and memory problems. A urine test may also indicate an acetyl-L-carnitine deficiency.