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Posted on Dec 30, 2005, 8 p.m.
By Bill Freeman
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A naturally occurring nutrient in the body, acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) transports fats into the mitochondria. It occurs in many common foods, including milk. Studies have shown that ALC may help protect the brain by nourishing NMDA-sensitive glutamate receptors, which normally decline with age.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
A naturally occurring nutrient in the body, acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) transports fats into the mitochondria. It occurs in many common foods, including milk. Studies have shown that ALC may help protect the brain by nourishing NMDA-sensitive glutamate receptors, which normally decline with age. ALC has also been shown to help prevent the formation of lipofuscin, a potassium age pigment, and to increase cerebral blood flow.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
ALC’s anti-aging benefits may include brain protection from signs of aging, improved memory with long-term use, increased attention and vitality, and protection and treatment of senile dementia. Recent studies have confirmed that ALC can reduce both lipid peroxidation and lipofuscin concentration in brain cells. Some research has suggested that ALC supplementation may be useful in the management of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
None knownTHERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
ALC is distributed in 250mg and 500mg tablets, and sometimes in oral liquid form. Pharmaceutical trade name preparations include Branigen, Ceredor, Nicetile, Normobren and Zibren. Follow instructions on packaging.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: 1500mg per day
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Side effects may include nausea, headache, dizziness or vomiting when beginning treatment or at higher dosages. People with kidney or liver disease should consult their doctor before taking supplementary ALC.
