Acetylcarnitine is a compound used as a dietary supplement for various reasons, including improving mental function and increasing male fertility. It can increase energy production, act as an antioxidant in the brain, and contribute to the production and release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter related to memory. However, the long-term effects of supplementation are unknown, and those taking MAOIs should avoid it.
Acetylcarnitine (ALCAR) is a type of ammonium compound that is synthesized from amino acids in both plants and animals. Acetylcarnitine is used as a dietary supplement by many people for a variety of reasons, ranging from improving mental function to increasing fertility in men. However, there have not been enough studies to determine the long-term effects of these supplements, so those who want to try it should consult a doctor.
Acetylcarnitine is produced during strenuous activity by a combination of chemicals. After ALCAR is transported out of the mitochondria, it is broken down back into the two parent compounds. One of these components, L-carnitine, is used to assist mitochondria in the use of fatty acids for energy production. This allows acetylcarnitine supplements to often increase the body’s energy production.
ALCAR is also used as a powerful antioxidant in the brain. The blood-brain barrier prevents many compounds from entering the brain, but acetylcarnitine can cross this barrier and help eliminate free radicals within the brain. These free radicals damage brain cells. This is part of the reason why ALCAR can be used to help prevent brain cell deterioration.
Acetylcarnitine is believed to contribute to the production and release of acetylcholine within the brain. Acetylcholine is one of the primary neurotransmitters within the brain and the rest of the central nervous system (CNS). This neurotransmitter is believed to be directly related to the brain’s ability to create and store memories. This has been shown to provide a marked increase in performance in older brains.
A man’s fertility can also be improved with the use of an ALCAR supplement. One of the main factors in determining how fertile a man’s sperm is is the sperm’s ability to move. This is known as sperm motility. ALCAR has been shown to have the effect of increasing sperm motility, increasing male fertility.
While acetylcarnitine is an important part of normal body functions and its potential benefits appear to be profound, the use of these supplements has not received much testing in humans. As a result, the long-term health effects of acetylcarnitine supplementation in humans are unknown. Many people who take these supplements report a marked increase in energy and memory that may be associated with taking these supplements. Anyone looking to try these supplements should consult with their doctor before beginning. People taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) should not take this type of supplement, due to a potentially dangerous increase in acetylcholine levels within the brain.
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