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Home / Nootropics List / Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)
Avatar for David Tomen
Author: David Tomen | Nootropics Expert Founder Modified: September 02, 2023
Fact checked by: Jill Corleone, RD FACT CHECKED

Jill Corleone, RD s a registered dietitian who’s been writing about nutrition, health, and fitness for more
than 20 years.

After earning her Bachelor of Science in nutrition at New York University in Manhattan, Jill went on to complete her dietetic internship at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in Newark. Learn More...

David Tomen is a nootropics expert and author of the influential "Head First – The Complete Guide to Healing & Optimizing Your Brain with Nootropic Supplements" and ‘Secrets of the Optimized Brain’.  David also runs the popular Nootropics Expert YouTube channel.

August 16, 2023 By David Tomen 333 Comments

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)
Acetyl-L-Carnitine may reverse age-related cognitive decline, boost energy, and improve memory.

Key Takeaways
  1. Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is a synthesized version of L-Carnitine that enhances energy production, supports fat burning, and improves cognitive function.

  2. ALCAR facilitates fatty acid transport to mitochondria, boosts acetylcholine formation, and exhibits antioxidant properties.

  3. ALCAR benefits brain health by supporting mitochondrial function, protecting brain cells, and improving cerebral blood circulation.

  4. It has potential therapeutic effects on conditions such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, depression, and mild cognitive impairment.

  5. ALCAR supplementation dosage recommendation is 500 – 1,500 mg per day depending on the desired goal.


Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR, ALC or LAC) is a synthesized version of L-Carnitine. Which is a derivative of the amino acids lysine and methionine.

ALCAR is more bioavailable than L-Carnitine. It easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. And delivers L-Carnitine across cell membranes and into your brain (which L-Carnitine would not be able to cross on its own).

L-Carnitine is naturally made in your liver and kidneys. And then transported to other tissues including your brain and heart.

ALCAR helps:

  • Brain Energy Metabolism. ALCAR helps facilitate fatty acid transport to the mitochondria where they’re needed for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Fatty acid metabolism fuels your cells and can boost physical and mental energy. This also assists with fat burning in other cells.
  • Neurotransmitters. ALCAR is a necessary ingredient for acetylcholine formation. Which boosts memory, mental alertness, and fluid thought.
  • Brain Optimization. The antioxidant properties of Acetyl-L-Carnitine provides neuroprotective qualities, boosts Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), and promotes cerebral blood circulation.

Table of Contents

  • Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) Overview
  • L-Carnitine vs. Acetyl-L-Carnitine: What’s the Difference?
  • How does Acetyl-L-Carnitine Work in the Brain?
  • How things go bad
  • ALCAR Nootropic benefits
  • How does Acetyl-L-Carnitine feel?
  • ALCAR Clinical Research
    • ALCAR helps with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
    • Acetyl-L-Carnitine slows rate of cognitive decline
    • ALCAR effective for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
    • Acetyl-L-Carnitine protects from oxidative damage of Ecstasy (MDMA)
    • ALCAR for Erectile Dysfunction?
  • ALCAR Recommended Dosage
  • ALCAR Side Effects
  • Types of ALCAR to buy
  • Nootropics Expert Recommendation

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) Overview

L-Carnitine is an amino acid that’s synthesized in your body. You also get it from red meat and dairy.

High quality Acetyl L-Carnitine is found naturally in grass-fed beef and mutton.L-Carnitine is considered a “conditionally essential” nutrient because when your body uses it faster than it can produce it, you need supplemental L-Carnitine either from food or a supplement.

L-Carnitine is used throughout your body. Here we’re talking about the Acetyl-L-Carnitine form of L-Carnitine because of its affects on brain health and chemistry.

L-Carnitine vs. Acetyl-L-Carnitine: What’s the Difference?

L-Carnitine and Acetyl-L-Carnitine are often referred to as Carnitine. But each are structurally different, and each has its advantages.

L-Carnitine: Helps produce energy within the mitochondria of your cells, but is not capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. Supplemental L-Carnitine is difficult for your body to absorb; only 18% of it reaches your bloodstream.

L Carnitine supplements are favored by athletes and dieters who want Carnitine’s fat-metabolizing benefits. But are not seeking any brain benefits.

L-Carnitine chemical structure
L-Carnitine

Acetyl-L-Carnitine: Is easier to absorb and used by your body than L-Carnitine. In one animal study, who were given 2 grams of ALCAR daily for 50 days, ALCAR boosted blood levels of ALCAR by 43%.[i]

Acetyl-L-Carnitine chemical structure
Acetyl-L-Carnitine

ALCAR does everything that L-Carnitine does, but by adding an acetyl group, it but can also cross the blood-brain barrier. In another animal study, researchers found that ALCAR supports mitochondrial function which then protects brain cells from oxidative stress, while L-Carnitine does not.[ii]

How does Acetyl-L-Carnitine Work in the Brain?

Acetyl-L-Carnitine boosts brain health and function in several ways. But two in particular stand out.

  1. ALCAR boosts acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter tied to memory and overall brain function. Acetyl-L-Carnitine is a precursor to acetylcholine in the presence of Coenzyme-A. Test tube studies shows that ALCAR donates a “methyl group” to help make acetylcholine.[iii]

Alzheimer’s-diseased brains show a 25% to 40% reduction in carnitine acetyltransferase, an enzyme that works with L-Carnitine & Acetyl-L-Carnitine.

This enzyme decline led researchers to link low ALCAR with low acetylcholine, and Alzheimer’s onset. They went on to suggest that the therapeutic properties of ALCAR supplementation is a viable therapy for brain regeneration.[iv]

  1. ALCAR promotes brain energy metabolism by supporting your brain cell’s mitochondria in creating ATP which is your main source of cellular energy.[v]

ALCAR works as a shuttle transport for fatty acids through cell membranes into mitochondria to assist with adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis.[vi]

ALCAR is essential for fatty acid oxidation:

  • ALCAR shuttles fatty acids into mitochondria, for the creation of ATP.
  • ALCAR then shuttles fatty acids out of mitochondria, and flushes out tox ic byproducts.

ALCAR helps maintain mitochondrial function in nearly every cell of your body and brain.
ALCAR helps maintain mitochondrial function in nearly every cell of your body. Your brain consumes at least 20% of your body’s energy. And generates a lot of toxic byproducts as well as different chronic intermittent stressors. . So ALCAR supplementation is particularly important for a healthy brain.

How things go bad

As we get older, our brain chemistry and energy metabolism changes.[vii]

↓ Nerve growth factor in the brain declines

↓ Acetyl-L-Carnitine levels decline

↓ Acetylcholine levels decline

↓ Mitochondria loses efficiency

All of these age-related changes are contributing factors to cognitive impairment and the neurodegenerative diseases of aging, including Alzheimer’s and dementia.

ALCAR Nootropic benefits

Animal research conducted at the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University shows that Acetyl-L-Carnitine will:[viii]

  • Restore efficient mitochondrial energy production
  • Replenish age-related changes to mitochondrial structure
  • Replenish ALCAR and acetylcholine levels in the brain and body

One of the most potent Acetyl-L-Carnitine benefits is that it has the ability to boost acetylcholine and rejuvenate brain cells (including mitochondria). This has been proven to benefit those with age-related brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and major depressive symptoms.[ix]

And one animal study conducted in New Delhi showed that Acetyl L-Carnitine reduces lipofuscin in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, striatum and thalamus.

How does Acetyl-L-Carnitine feel?

You may not feel ALCAR… unless you’re elderly, have low energy levels, or have Erectile Dysfunction. Within those specific groups, users of Acetyl-L-Carnitine report it helps with memory, mental fatigue, mood, mental performance and the ability to get and maintain an erection.

How does ALCAR make you feel?ALCAR’s brain support and its ability to support the mitochondria in your brain cells should boost cognition in all age and gender groups.

As a nootropic, ALCAR user reviews report a boost in energy and quicker thinking.

ALCAR Clinical Research

In one study, researchers showed that ALCAR may have beneficial effects for depression and dementia in the aging brain.[x]

Another study out of Italy; researchers showed that Acetyl-L-Carnitine stimulated the growth of new neurites. More of these minute projections from nerve cell bodies meant increased signaling between cells throughout the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord).[xi]

And a study conducted at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York found that ALCAR has potential in treating the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. By directly affecting mitochondrial respiration and assisting dopamine receptors and the use of dopamine in the brain.

ALCAR helps with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

A gold-standard double-blind, randomized controlled trial on 1,204 people showed significant effect on attention, mental performance, memory and higher mental functions.[xii]

In this study ALCAR seemed to ward off further brain deterioration. And could be considered as therapy for brain degeneration.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine slows rate of cognitive decline

130 Alzheimer’s patients were given ALCAR or a placebo daily for a year. They were tested across 14 points of cognitive performance.

This research showed a slower decline in cognitive performance with the ALCAR group compared to the placebo group.[xiii]

ALCAR effective for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

acetyl-l-carnitine helps reduce chronic fatigueAcetyl-L-Carnitine has been shown to improve fatigue in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.

In a randomized, double-blind, crossover study; 36 people were treated for 3 months with either amantadine (used to treat Chronic Fatigue), or 1 gram of ALCAR twice daily.

The results of the study showed that ALCAR was better tolerated and more effective for brain function than the pharmaceutical for fatigue.[xiv]

Acetyl-L-Carnitine protects from oxidative damage of Ecstasy (MDMA)

Research has shown ALCAR to be effective in protecting your mitochondria from oxidative stress. But these guys took it a step further.

Male rats were given Acetyl-L-Carnitine before a dose of Ecstasy (MDMA). ALCAR pretreatment “exerts effective neuroprotection against MDMA-induced neurotoxicity at the mitochondrial level”, said the researchers.[xv]

Keep that in mind before your next party.

ALCAR for Erectile Dysfunction?

Carnitine versus androgen administration. In this study, 120 patients were split into 3 groups. Group 1 was given 160 mg of testosterone per day. The 2nd group was given 2 grams of Propionyl-L-Carnitine plus 2 grams of Acetyl L Carnitine hcl per day. And the 3rd group a placebo.

Did you know that there’s an International Index of Erectile Function?

Turns out the Propionyl-L-Carnitine/Acetyl-L-Carnitine stack was better than testosterone for sexual dysfunction. Without the side effects of an enlarged prostate, better orgasms, more sexual desire and improved mood.[xvi]

Propionyl-L-Carnitine chemical structure
Propionyl-L-Carnitine

ALCAR Recommended Dosage

  • Acetyl-L-Carnitine suggested dosage for cognitive benefits is 1 – 4 grams per day.
  • For improved mood and elimination of chronic fatigue, 1 – 3 grams of ALCAR per day.
  • For age-related memory concerns, 1 – 2 grams of ALCAR per day.

ALCAR is water-soluble and can be taken on an empty stomach with water. A few supplement manufacturers recommend taking their Acetyl-L-Carnitine with a meal. Which may imply that it’s fat-soluble although I’ve found no evidence in the scientific literature.

ALCAR Side Effects

Acetyl-L-Carnitine is produced naturally in your body. So is considered well-tolerated and safe.

Side effects are rare but can include nausea, vomiting, increased agitation, weight loss, and restlessness.

You can also see an increase in seizure frequency if you have any kind of seizure disorder.

ALCAR and thyroid hormones. L-carnitine inhibits both triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) entry into the cell. Which means ALCAR supplementation may make thyroid hormone replacement therapy less effective. But could also help someone suffering from hyperthyroidism.

Types of ALCAR to buy

  • Acetyl-L-Carnitine: L-Carnitine with an extra acetyl group. This version of l carnitine is more bioavailable and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier.
  • L-Carnitine: This is the standard form of l carnitine found in food.
  • Lipo-Carn®: A proprietary blend of Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Acetyl-L-Carnitine. Studies show this combination is a powerful anti-aging duo.
    Performance Lab Energy contains an effective dose of ALCAR
    Performance Lab Energy contains an effective dose of ALCAR

    Together, these two help combat diabetes, glucose metabolism, boost energy production, lower high blood pressure, fat metabolism, maintain proper cognitive function, protects the body from radiation and chemical toxins and helps immunity.[xvii]
  • Propionyl-L-Carnitine: L-Carnitine combined with propionic acid. This form is noted for its antioxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress biomarkers, and is used for heart health applications. Also useful for erectile dysfunction.
  • Biosint™ is pharmaceutical grade Acetyl-L-Carnitine that is manufactured in Italy by Sigma Tau HealthSciences

You can also get 500 mg Acetyl L-Carnitine, 100 mg BioEnhanced™ R-Lipoic Acid, 100 mg CoQ10, 10 mg BioPQQ®, and 2.5 mg BioPerine® in one dose of my favorite energy supplement Performance Lab® Energy.

Nootropics Expert Recommendation

Acetyl-L-Carnitine 500 – 1,500 mg per day

Nootropics Expert Tested and Approved I recommend using Acetyl-L-Carnitine as a nootropic supplement.

Your body does synthesize some ALCAR on its own. And from the food you eat. But most L-Carnitine comes from red meat. And unless you eat a lot of great quality grass-fed beef or mutton you can not produce sufficient amounts, and likely have an Acetyl-L-Carnitine deficiency.

ALCAR is especially helpful for those suffering from age-related cognitive decline. Studies show it helps stop or reverse brain degeneration with Alzheimer’s Disease, and geriatric depression. Particularly in the early stages of the disease.

I suggest starting with a dose of 500 mg ALCAR daily. ALCAR is a great compliment to a stack including any of the racetams. Take enough Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline to eliminate a racetam-induced headache. Then add 500 mg of ALCAR.

Some have found ALCAR stacked with Coenzyme Q-10 has a profound effect on everything from mood to bipolar disorder. Especially combined with Alpha-Lipoic Acid.|

You can also get 500 mg Acetyl L-Carnitine, 100 mg BioEnhanced™ R-Lipoic Acid, 100 mg CoQ10, 10 mg BioPQQ®, and 2.5 mg BioPerine® in one dose of my favorite energy supplement Performance Lab® Energy.

Age-related cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s may want to up the dose to 1,500 mg per day.

REFERENCES

[i] Rebouche C.J. “Kinetics, pharmacokinetics, and regulation of L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine metabolism.” Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences 2004 Nov;1033:30-41. (source)

[ii] Liu J., Head E., Kuratsune H., Cotman C.W., Ames B.N. “Comparison of the effects of L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine on carnitine levels, ambulatory activity, and oxidative stress biomarkers in the brain of old rats.” Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences2004 Nov;1033:117-31. (source)

[iii] White H.L., Scates P.W. “Acetyl-L-carnitine as a precursor of acetylcholine.” Neurochemical Research 1990 Jun;15(6):597-601. (source)

[iv] Kalaria R.N., Harik S.I. “Carnitine acetyltransferase activity in the human brain and its microvessels is decreased in Alzheimer’s disease.”Annals of Neurology 1992 Oct;32(4):583-6. (source)

[v] Berg J.M., Tymoczko J.L., Stryer L. Biochemistry. 5th edition. New York: W H Freeman; 2002. (source)

[vi] Berg J.M., Tymoczko J.L., Stryer L. Biochemistry. 5th edition. New York: W H Freeman; 2002. (source)

[vii] Costell M., O’Connor J.E., Grisolía S. “Age-dependent decrease of carnitine content in muscle of mice and humans.” Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 1989 Jun 30;161(3):1135-43. (source)

[viii] Gomez L.A., Heath S.D., Hagen T.M. “Acetyl-L-carnitine supplementation reverses the age-related decline in carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1) activity in interfibrillar mitochondria without changing the L-carnitine content in the rat heart” Mechanics of Aging Development 2012 Feb-Mar; 133(0): 99–106. (source)

[ix] Pettegrew J.W., Levine J., McClure R.J. “Acetyl-L-carnitine physical-chemical, metabolic, and therapeutic properties: relevance for its mode of action in Alzheimer’s disease and geriatric depression.” Molecular Psychiatry 2000 Nov;5(6):616-32. (source)

[x] Ferrari F., Gorini A., Villa R.F. “Functional proteomics of synaptic plasma membrane ATP-ases of rat hippocampus: effect of l-acetylcarnitine and relationships with Dementia and Depression pathophysiology.” European Journal of Pharmacology 2015 Jun 5;756:67-74. (source)

[xi] Taglialatela G., Navarra D., Olivi A., Ramacci M.T., Werrbach-Perez K., Perez-Polo J.R., Angelucci L. “Neurite outgrowth in PC12 cells stimulated by acetyl-L-carnitine arginine amide.” Neurochemical Research 1995 Jan;20(1):1-9. (source)

[xii] Montgomery S.A., Thal L.J., Amrein R. “Meta-analysis of double blind randomized controlled clinical trials of acetyl-L-carnitine versus placebo in the treatment of mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer’s disease” International Clinical Psychopharmacology 2003 Mar;18(2):61-71. (source)

[xiii] Spagnoli A. et. Al. “Long-term acetyl-L-carnitine treatment in Alzheimer’s disease.” Neurology. 1991 Nov;41(11):1726-32. (source)

[xiv] Tomassini V., Pozzilli C., Onesti E., Pasqualetti P., Marinelli F., Pisani A., Fieschi C. “Comparison of the effects of acetyl L-carnitine and amantadine for the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis: results of a pilot, randomized, double-blind, crossover trial.” Journal of Neurological Science 2004 Mar 15;218(1-2):103-8. (source)

[xv] Alves E. et. Al “Acetyl-l-carnitine provides effective in vivo neuroprotection over 3,4-methylenedioximethamphetamine-induced mitochondrial neurotoxicity in the adolescent rat brain” Cellular Neuroscience Volume 158, Issue 2, 23 January 2009, Pages 514–523 (source)

[xvi] Cavallini G., Caracciolo S., Vitali G., Modenini F., Biagiotti G. “Carnitine versus androgen administration in the treatment of sexual dysfunction, depressed mood, and fatigue associated with male aging.”Urology 2004 Apr;63(4):641-6. (source)

[xvii] Liu J., Head E., Gharib A.M., Yuan W., Ingersoll R.T., Hagen T.M., Cotman C.W., Ames B.N. “Memory loss in old rats is associated with brain mitochondrial decay and RNA/DNA oxidation: partial reversal by feeding acetyl-L-carnitine and/or R-alpha -lipoic acid.” Proceeding of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 2002 Feb 19;99(4):2356-61. (source)

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Filed Under: Nootropics List

Avatar for David Tomen

About David Tomen

David Tomen is a nootropics expert and author of the influential "Head First – The Complete Guide to Healing & Optimizing Your Brain with Nootropic Supplements" and ‘Secrets of the Optimized Brain’.  David also runs the popular Nootropics Expert YouTube channel.

Comments

  1. Avatar for AndreiAndrei says

    September 2, 2023 at 12:32 am

    Hi David,
    I can see that ALCAR might affect Thyoid hormones, which I’m not really fond of. Does it do it at a significant level?

    Also, is AlpaGPC, or Choline ,enough for acetylcholine? If not, are there other alternatives that you suggest?

    Thank you

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      September 4, 2023 at 3:33 pm

      Andrei, I have the same issue because I need to increase acetylcholine but am severely hypothyroid and use thyroid meds. So I limit myself to one 500 mg ALCAR capsule per day and that seems to be enough. That does not seem to mess with my thyroid levels in a noticeable way.

      You use ALCAR with Alpha GPC or CDP-Choline because ALCAR helps produce Acetyl Co-A which is part of the synthesis cycle to make acetylcholine.

      Reply
  2. Avatar for RooneyRooney says

    August 16, 2023 at 4:10 pm

    Hello David,

    do i have to take ALCAR with Alpha GPC or CDP Choline to increase acetylcholine, or is it enough to take ALCAR alone to boost acetylcholine?

    thanks a lot

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      August 21, 2023 at 3:06 pm

      ALCAR only increases Acetyl-CoA which is used in the synthesis of acetylcholine. You still need a choline supplement to complete that cycle.

      Reply
  3. Avatar for Mark PainterMark Painter says

    May 3, 2023 at 9:58 am

    David, I experience headaches pretty quickly after ALCAR 500mg that last for a few hours. Do you think this could be a result of low acetylcholine levels? Wondering if I need to focus on supplements like Alpha GPC for a while. Thanks

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      May 5, 2023 at 3:09 pm

      Mark ALCAR is sometimes used to treat migraines (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33755806/). The theory is a deficiency in carnitine could cause the headaches and ALCAR helps restore that carnitine in mitochondria. This is pure speculation on my part but maybe you already have plenty of carnitine in your system. So, supplementing with ALCAR pushes you over the edge to excess carnitine.

      Reply
  4. Avatar for JmanJman says

    April 24, 2023 at 2:37 am

    Hello

    Can I take DLPA/L-tyrosine with L-tryptophan and Acetyl-L-carnitine? Any interactions?

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      April 26, 2023 at 5:02 pm

      Jman, you certainly can but you’ll likely want to use L-Tryptophan before bed because it is a precursor to serotonin which goes on to produce melatonin.

      Reply
  5. Avatar for Ryan SmithRyan Smith says

    March 27, 2023 at 1:40 pm

    Thank you for the article. I have been taking ACLAR and ALA together

    Best Naturals – Acetyl-L-Carnitine-Alpha Lipoic Acid

    Mostly I take 1 pill in the morning. Sometimes a second mid day

    I have always had issues sleeping (I’m going to try your recommendation on a sleep stack), but more recently it seem like my sleep has been much worse.

    Do you think the increased sleep issues could be from this product?

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      March 31, 2023 at 5:19 pm

      Ryan, that supplement is likely causing insomnia because that combo is usually used as energy booster. Those two supplements are including in Performance Lab Energy for example along with CoQ10 and PQQ. So, either use it in the morning, or cut the dose in half, or stop using it if the problem persists.

      Reply
  6. Avatar for RyanRyan says

    March 14, 2023 at 1:09 pm

    Hi David,

    I have read that ALCAR should be taken with carbs, which releases insulin, and subsequently increases the uptake of ALCAR into your muscle cells. But I am trying to understand if this increase only benefits muscles and exercise performance, or would it additionally improve its cognitive efficacy.

    Thanks!
    Ryan

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      March 20, 2023 at 5:14 pm

      Ryan, it very well could improve cognition although I don’t have any research to back that up.

      Reply
  7. Avatar for ChrisChris says

    March 4, 2023 at 9:45 pm

    Hello,

    I have a question on this exerpt in your expert recommendation section:

    ‘Some have found ALCAR stacked with Coenzyme Q-10 has a profound effect on everything from mood to bipolar disorder. Especially combined with Alpha-Lipoic Acid.’

    Does this mean ALCAR stacked with CoQ10 and Alpha-Lipoc Acid is favorable (e.g., especially when also combined with…)?
    Or were you specifically talking about ALCAR + Alpha-Lipoic Acid only in the last statement?

    Chris

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      March 6, 2023 at 1:46 pm

      Chris, the combination of Alpha Lipoic Acid, ALCAR and CoQ10 works very well. It works so well that Performance Lab stacks those 3 with PQQ in their Energy supplement.

      Reply
      • Avatar for ChrisChris says

        March 12, 2023 at 7:02 pm

        Great, thanks for the reply

        Reply
  8. Avatar for JakubJakub says

    February 25, 2023 at 2:31 am

    Can you take ALCAR together with L-Tryptophan?

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      February 26, 2023 at 3:52 pm

      Yes you can.

      Reply
  9. Avatar for David KDavid K says

    February 19, 2023 at 10:03 am

    does alcar mix well with r-lipoic acid and carosine?

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      February 19, 2023 at 4:06 pm

      David, ALCAR is used with R-Lipoic Acid in the Performance Lab Energy stack (https://bit.ly/3ifR1XJ) so we know it works well for boosting energy.

      And supplementing with L-Carnosine will increase lipofuscin. ALCAR helps scavenge and remove the lipofuscin that is increased as a byproduct by using L-Carnosine.

      Reply
      • Avatar for David KDavid K says

        April 14, 2023 at 3:11 pm

        “ALCAR helps scavenge and remove the lipofuscin that is increased as a byproduct by using L-Carnosine.” Does that mean that L-Carnosine should be avoided? Because of the increased lipofuscins?

        Reply
        • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

          April 18, 2023 at 4:48 pm

          David No, it does not mean that L-Carnosine should be avoided. It’s an excellent supplement. Just be aware that it does increase the lipofuscin and ALCAR helps get rid of it. Lipofuscin will not kill you. But it’s like rust on iron. You don’t really want rust so you sand it off.

          Reply
          • Avatar for David KDavid K says

            April 26, 2023 at 3:29 pm

            Thanks

          • Avatar for David KDavid K says

            April 26, 2023 at 3:31 pm

            Thanks. Does CPD Choline add to this minnie stack?

          • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

            April 26, 2023 at 5:50 pm

            David, if you add CDP-Choline it will work with ALCAR to produce acetylcholine.

  10. Avatar for DanDan says

    February 11, 2023 at 8:32 am

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25636076/
    What do you think about it? and how to resist it?

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      February 13, 2023 at 3:14 pm

      Dan, Life Extension said it best in this article: https://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2013/8/rebuttal-to-attack-against-carnitine

      Reply
  11. Avatar for JessicaJessica says

    December 15, 2022 at 1:52 pm

    My husband has suffered a TBI. I’m looking into this as a supplement to help him recover. What are your thoughts?

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      December 16, 2022 at 4:01 pm

      Jessica, you are going to need a lot more than ALCAR for treating TBI. Please see this article for why and what to use: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-traumatic-brain-injury/

      Reply
  12. Avatar for WayneWayne says

    November 14, 2022 at 1:40 am

    David, I recently watched your video on ALCAR and wondered if you could comment on its conversion to TMAO; and how to mitigate this.

    Thanks,

    Wayne

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      November 16, 2022 at 1:27 pm

      Wayne, it does NOT convert to TMAO and that information is based on headlines from a tiny study in 2013 with 10 people eating red meat. Life Extension has done the best rebuttal in this article which I recommend reading: https://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2013/8/rebuttal-to-attack-against-carnitine

      Reply
  13. Avatar for MilenaMilena says

    November 6, 2022 at 2:05 am

    Wow, will definitely try it. Thank you.

    Reply
  14. Avatar for PavlosPavlos says

    November 3, 2022 at 3:19 am

    Hi David, after the consumption of 500mg of alcar in the morning I feel a little bit anxious along with racing thoughts. This is an impact of raising noradrenaline or norepinephrine?

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      November 3, 2022 at 3:17 pm

      Pavlos, even though it rarely happens, the side effects of ALCAR can include nausea, vomiting, increased agitation, weight loss, and restlessness. If you are experiencing anxiety and racing thoughts then ALCAR is the wrong supplement for you.

      Reply
  15. Avatar for HowardHoward says

    October 13, 2022 at 7:29 am

    Hi David,
    I take alcar and r-ala. Could this combination have a negative effect on cellular uptake of thyroid hormone and if so would this be significant enough for me to worry about? If it’s only a slight effect then I’d rather keep taking them.

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      October 14, 2022 at 3:39 pm

      Howard, ALCAR can affect thyroid hormones. I use ALCAR and am hypothyroid so need to be careful about how much I use or I can go hypo.

      Reply
      • Avatar for HowardHoward says

        October 14, 2022 at 5:16 pm

        Thanks David,
        I’ll be careful with dosage and keep monitoring the situation.

        Reply
  16. Avatar for BenjaminBenjamin says

    September 20, 2022 at 6:55 am

    Hello David! :)))

    Stacking ALCAR with fatty acids like MCT or Omega 3 will make them more effective at reaching brain cells?

    I’ve seen some guys claiming, ALCAR support fatty acid transport.

    Do you personally use it like that? 🙂

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      September 20, 2022 at 2:35 pm

      Benjamin, ALCAR helps transport fatty acids into mitochondria to be used for the synthesis of ATP. But it’s water soluble and does not need any help crossing into the brain or crossing cell membranes.

      Reply
  17. Avatar for Pilan ButtsPilan Butts says

    September 6, 2022 at 6:14 pm

    David, I want to supplement with Carnitine. I read your list below the different types of Carnitine.

    I am looking for a soure of Lipo-Carn.

    Im looking to support my body since I have insulin resistance down from diabetes yay me. It took many years to get here. I also have heart flutters which ive had most of my life. I think anything that helps with heart function and possiblly smooth out the rhythm is worth the try.

    Also I play pickleball about 15 hours a week. I started this 6 months ago and need to keep as healthy and functioning top shelf. Im 68yr and want to continuing being active for years to come. Thanks for all your responses.

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      September 7, 2022 at 4:26 pm

      Pilan, if you are 68 it’s going to take a lot more than just Carnitine. See my article on aging here: https://nootropicsexpert.com/best-nootropics-for-the-aging-brain/

      The best thing for insulin resistance I’ve found is 500 mg Berberine (https://nootropicsexpert.com/berberine/) 3-times per day.

      As for Carnitine, the only form that easily crosses into your brain and is used by the rest of your body is Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALCAR) 500 mg 2 or 3-times per day.

      Reply
      • Avatar for Pilan ButtsPilan Butts says

        September 7, 2022 at 7:34 pm

        Thank you.

        Also is your book a paperback or is it digital only?

        Thanks again

        Reply
        • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

          September 9, 2022 at 4:02 pm

          Digital-only for this Edition. The 2nd Edition will be offered in hardcover, paperback and digital. Fingers crossed – that should be ready before Christmas.

          Reply
    • Avatar for Philip BrisbanePhilip Brisbane says

      November 1, 2022 at 7:23 pm

      Niacinamide 500MG capsules. I started with one capsule then 2 so I take 1000MGs twice daily to increase NAD+ levels that naturally decline with age. It’s a B3 precursor found in all of our cells for metabolism.

      https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468501121000055

      Reply
  18. Avatar for RobertRobert says

    July 6, 2022 at 6:46 pm

    I’m 78 years old what dosage of alcar should I use?

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      July 8, 2022 at 11:31 am

      Robert, the standard adult dosage is 500 mg 3-times per day. But if that last dose late afternoon interrupts your sleep then stay with two 500 mg doses. Morning and noon.

      Reply
      • Avatar for RobertRobert says

        July 10, 2022 at 10:33 pm

        David,

        I’m seriously considering a consultation this coming week.

        I just want to point out some of my health issues and want to know if you have any concerns.

        1. I have pacemaker now for 2 years. It was installed because of low blood pressure and fainting. I have not had any issues to date.

        2. I have a heart ejection factor of 45/50 which is borderline heart failure. My last test was late last year. I have had cardiologist appointment this year and have no issues.

        3, I’m 78 years old and generally in good health, I exercise and have a good diet.

        4. I have been diagnosed with mild PLMD and use Pregabalin 100 mg to help me stop the kicking and get some sleep at night.

        5. I have an extensive vitamins list and trying my best to have the correct approach and want your help.

        Please let me know your thoughts

        Robert

        Reply
        • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

          July 11, 2022 at 11:04 am

          Robert, I have done consultations with men and women much older then you and with even more serious health issues. I’m happy to help you in any way I can. Schedule the consultation and let’s do this!

          Reply
  19. Avatar for RobertRobert says

    July 6, 2022 at 6:44 pm

    David I want to schedule a consultation with you regarding my vitamin stack.b how do I proceed?

    Reply
    • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

      July 8, 2022 at 11:32 am

      Robert here is a link to my calendar: https://calendly.com/davidtomen/60-minute-consultation-with-report. Click that and just follow the steps and instructions through.

      Reply
      • Avatar for RobertRobert says

        July 9, 2022 at 1:44 pm

        David,

        Should I send you my list of vitamins that I’m taking that may help facilitate a consultation!

        Thank you Robert

        Reply
        • Avatar for David TomenDavid Tomen says

          July 9, 2022 at 5:40 pm

          Robert, when you schedule the consultation there is space for you to provide a list of the supplement you are using, a list of meds, current health issues and goals or what you wnat to take away from the consultation.

          Reply
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