Acetyl L-Carnitine promotes cognitive support with core benefits including increased mental energy and concentration. The manufacturer, Swanson Health Products, claims the formula contains a unique form of L-Carnitine which provides powerful antioxidant protection throughout the nervous system, which, combined to its ability of passing through the blood-brain barrier ensures optimal brain function.
Swanson Health Products is a company founded in 1969 which currently activates in the nutritional supplements industry. The company continues to expand its selection of diet and weight loss supplements, natural hair and skin products, healthy foods according to modern trends (featuring organic options and green foods) and products for special diets (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and kosher).
Acetyl L-Carnitine is designed for adults only.
1) Acetyl L-Carnitine at a Glance
Acetyl L-Carnitine is a single ingredient formula for brain health enhancement which features the ester of the essential amino acid L-carnitine. Each capsule of the formula contains 500 mg of Acetyl L-Carnitine, exactly the recommended dose for a healthy adult (without ill health or obesity issues).
Acetyl L-Carnitine, also known as ALCAR plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism and energy production; particularly it serves to shuttle acetyl groups into the mithocondria. Preliminary studies have shown that Acetyl L Carnitine may facilitate synthesis of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in sleep regulating cycles and reward system. Also, it its ability to fight depression symptoms is currently investigated.
Side effects are rare and include mild gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting and cramps), headache, agitation, restlessness and increase in seizure frequency in persons with seizure disorder.
2) Ingredients of Acetyl L-Carnitine
Acetyl L-Carnitine includes the following ingredient: Acetyl L-Carnitine (from acetyl L-carnitine HCl), Gelatin, Calcium carbonate and may contain one or more of the following: Microcrystalline cellulose (plant fiber), Magnesium stearate, and silica.
3) Does Acetyl L-Carnitine Work and it is Safe?
Acetyl L-Carnitine’s formula is based on the essential amino acid L-Carnitine. Acetyl L-Carnitine is broken down in the blood by plasma esterases to carnitine, to transport and metabolize fatty acids for the muscle to use as an energy source. So, in essence, Acetyl L-Carnitine is naturally found in the body and helps produce energy. However, its role does not end there, as studies have shown it to increase fertility in males, treat a variety of mental disorders, memory loss, depression, nerve pain and even alleviate facial paralysis symptoms.
Research so far suggests Acetyl L-Carnitine is not linked to any harmful side-effects, making it safe to use for people of all ages. The manufacturer claims their product is unique, but dietary supplements that contain the amino acid L-carnitine are very common on the market. Regardless, the product’s overall claims seem to be realistic, and it may reach its goal of energizing the mind and body. Athletes and people with fatigue have been using this amino-acid because it promotes cardiovascular function and boosts energy levels. Because it passes through the blood-brain barrier, it is said to support cognitive health and optimal brain function.
Being so widely used and known for its benefits, Acetyl L-Carnitine has had many customers leave their opinions on the manufacturer’s website in the form of reviews. The overwhelming majority of them are positive and give 5 out of 5 overall ratings to the supplement, while the rest seem to suggest its results weren’t too convincing. For further insight, we recommend you check out the reviews. As a dietary supplement, Acetyl L-Carnitine should be taken with water, once or twice a day.
4) Acetyl L-Carnitine: Pros and Cons
- The core ingredient has been extensively researched and tested
- Excellent price ($10 for a 50-100 days supply)
- Reputable manufacturer with a rich experience in developing and producing natural supplements
- Extremely positive consumer reviews
5) Precautions of Acetyl L-Carnitine Use
- Mild side effects associated with cognitive decline
- Little differentiation from products based on Acetyl-L Carnitine
6) Acetyl L-Carnitine Cost
Acetyl L-Carnitine’s price is inexpensive. For 100 capsules a bottle, a monthly supply is quite affordable. You can place an order on the manufacturer’s website and have the product delivered to you in 48 hours or less. Shipping will only cost your around $5 anywhere in America. Even though no free trial of the product is offered, Swanson Health Products’ money-back guarantee seems to be the most convincing one on the market. They are willing to refund the customer for 100% of their money, within one full year from the purchase date, including shipping and handling on domestic orders.
7) Acetyl L-Carnitine Serving Size
Consumer reviews are positive, with important benefits mentioned by consumers including mental energy, better memory and increased focus. No potential side effects, drug interactions or other warnings are issued by the manufacturer. The recommended daily dosage is 1 capsule taken 1-2 times a day.
8) Bottom Line – Does It Really Work?
Acetyl L-Carnitine is based on a popular memory enhancer ingredient, Acetyl L-Carnitine. Extensive research exists on the ingredients, which prove its memory enhancing properties, although some benefit areas are still under debate.The product is likely to deliver on the benefit claims set out by the manufacturer, a fact confirmed by numerous consumer testimonials which report increased effectiveness.
The formula offered by Swanson Health Products has little differences from similar products featuring Acetyl-L-carnitine, therefore we cannot say if there are better products out there.
It is however our recommendation to reach out to a healthcare provider or pharmacist for specialized advice before use.
I am not shore if it’s just me, but this is the best memory formula I have ever used, it has almost immediate effect.