Healthy Aging -- Improving Cognition, Attention, Memory, Nerves, and More

Acetyl-L-Carnitine is found in products such as red meat and milk and occurs naturally in the body, within the inner membrane of mitochondria (sometimes known as "cellular power plants," which manufacture adenosine triphosphate or "ATP," which is used as energy in the brain). 

Chemically, Acetyl-L-Carnitine is an ester of L-carnitine and is converted to L-carnitine in the body; it is also structurally-related to acetylcholine, a brain chemical that is important for learning and memory (acetylcholine helps brain cells communicate).  Acetyl-L-carnitine is absorbed into the bloodstream more efficiently than L-carnitine and Acetyl-L-carnitine passes more effectively through cell membranes to support the work of mitochondria.

L-Carnitine is not an amino acid in the strict sense (it is not used as a neurotransmitter or in protein synthesis); however, L-Carnitine bears many resemblances to amino acids and is usually grouped under this heading. L-Carnitine (the "L" refers to its chemical polarity) is used by the body to transport long chain fatty acids to the mitochondria in cells, where they are burned for energy.

Since this fat burning is such a major source of muscular energy, deficiencies in L-Carnitine are manifested as low energy levels and muscular weakness. L-Carnitine deficiencies can also appear as mental confusion or cloudiness, angina (heart pain), and weight gain.

Animal studies have also indicated that supplemental Acetyl-L-Carnitine can reverse age-associated changes in lipid metabolism. 

The Infamous Readers Digest Article: "The End of Aging"

Dr. Bruce Ames, a biochemist and Professor at the University of California at Berkeley had his work profiled in Readers Digest in 2003.  Dr. Ames believes that while the production of energy in the mitochondria in your cells is highly efficient, the minor element of inefficiency -- which releases free radicals -- is the cause of aging. 

Thus, to gain the full range of benefits from Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Dr. Ames is known for pairing the powerful antioxidant and "free radicals-fighter" Alpha Lipoic Acid with Acetyl-L-Carnitine. 

Notes:

1. May cause nausea, vomiting and agitation (restlessness and motor over activity).
2. Side effects reported in people with Alzheimer’s disease include psychiatric disturbances, such as depression, mania, confusion and aggression, but it is not clear if they are due to acetyl-L-carnitine or the disease itself.
3. No known interactions with drugs or foods.
4. Skin rash and body odor have been reported.