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ACETYL-L-CARNITINE
Acetyl-L-Camitine is a source of the naturally occurring amino acid
camitine. Camitine is involved with the production of the
energy-rich compounds that fuel the body. Although
camitine is actively taken up into cells, different tissues appear
to prefer different for for example the myocardium (heart muscle)
prefers propionyl-L-camitine. Acetyl-L-Camitine occurs naturally in
the human brain. The Acetyl part of the molecule is linked with
acetylcholine (a chemical messenger required to transmit nerve
impulses) which improves the brains ability to function and
communicate with other organs. Acetyl-L-Camitine appears to be the
best form to take for brain health.
The Benefits of Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Alzheimer's Disease -
this progressive form of dementia which typically leads to a
reduction of short-term memory, behavioral and intellectual
performance has been shown to respond to Acetyl-L-Camitine.
Age related memory defect -
typically memory deteriorates as the brain ages, Acetyl-L-Camitine
slows the process.
Depression in the elderly -
improvement has been seen in this condition which can be brought
about by the physical and mental strains of ageing and by
biochemical changes in the brain.
Strokes -
experimental animal models of cerebral injury suggested Acetyl-L-Camitine
improved nerve function outcome, prevented free radical damage,
normalized the processing of energy rich compounds in the brain
tissue and decreased lactic acid content as blood flow returned to
normal.
Verbal and visual memory -
improvement in recognition and communication skills, which can
suffer with age and Alzheimer's disease, was observed.
Down's Syndrome -
improvements in visual memory and attention were noted compared to
those on a placebo.
Properties
Camitine is a vitamin like substance that is responsible for the
transport of long chain fatty acids into the mitochondria (small
vessels inside the cells where the controlled release of energy
takes place). Without camitine the fats cannot enter the
mitochondria and there is a reduction in available energy. Acetyl-L-Camitine
acts as a powerful antioxidant within the brain cells and stabilizes
cell membranes. The acetyl group that is part of Acetyl-L-Camitine
contributes to the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine
which is
required for mental function. Neurotransmitters are chemical
substances that are released from nerve endings allowing the passing
on of electrical impulses to the nerves, muscles and glands that
they influence. In summary. Acetyl-L-Camitine maximizes the
production of energy, promotes the stability of cell membranes
(restoring age-related membrane changes) and improves the quality of
the nerve impulses in the central nervous system.
Contra-indications / Precautions
Side effects from taking Acetyl-L-Camitine are uncommon. Skin rash,
increased appetite, body odour, agitation, nausea and vomiting have
been reported, Because it is an amino acid, it should be taken
between meals on an empty stomach for its therapeutic effect to be
achieved. Not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation.
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