Description

Primaforce’s Alcalean provides 100 percent high grade acetyl-l-carnitine. Acetyl-l-carnitine (or ALC) is a biologically active form of L-carnitine, which is derived from the essential amino acids methionine and lysine. Carnitine is naturally found in animal products. ALC maintains youthful cellular energy metabolism, by transporting fatty acids into the cell’s mitochondria. The mitochondria is the cell’s energy powerhouse, converting energy from food molecules into ATP energy for cell functions. ALC is well-known as an energy nutrient that is used to support all bodily functions that require high levels of energy.

Studies have shown that acetyl-l-carnitine helps protect the cells from the effects of aging. ALC has also been shown to support mental alertness, mood, fat metabolism, testosterone regulation in males, and immune and cardiovascular function.

Pros

Supplementation with acetyl-l-carnitine can be an important addition to the diet. Since the main food source of carnitine is animal products, a vegetarian or vegan diet can increase the risk of dietary deficiencies. Other reasons for low levels of carnitine include a genetically based carnitine defect, decreased levels of the essential amino acids methionine and lysine, injury, depression and advancing age. If the demand for carnitine exceeds the body’s ability to produce it, carnitine becomes a conditionally essential nutrient. Taking an ALC supplement, such as Primaforce’s Alcalean can help prevent deficiencies, improve performance, maximize fat burning and replenish energy.

Acetyl-l-carnitine’s multi-functional uses include:

• Enhances physical performance

• Increases fat loss

• Improves cellular energy in the brain

• Promotes cognitive function, mental alertness and mental performance

• Slows the effects of aging

• Decreases symptoms of depression in elderly persons

• Regulates testosterone in men

• Potent antioxidant that boosts immunity

Cons

ALC has been shown to be safe in many studies. Experts recommend supplementing with 1,500 – 3,000 mg ALC daily, taken in divided doses. They also recommend starting with a low dose and progressively taking higher amounts over a period of weeks, to adapt to the supplement and minimize any possible side effects. Although side effects are uncommon, skin rash, increased appetite, nausea, vomiting, agitation and confusion have been reported.

The “D” form of carnitine must not be taken as it can create an L-carnitine deficiency in muscle and interfere with L-carnitine and acetyl-l-carnitine function. D-carnitine supplements have been banned in the United States due to this toxicity.

There are conflicting studies regarding ALC’s effect on fat metabolism and how effectively it uses fat as an energy source. Nonetheless, acetyl-l-carnitine remains the best option for those wishing to supplement with carnitine.

Be aware that some drugs may increase the need for acetyl-L-carnitine including:

• Cisplatin (a chemotherapy drug)

• Didanosine (a drug that blocks reproduction of the HIV virus)

• Paclitraxel (a chemotherapy drug)

• Stayudine (an antiviral drug)

People with high triglyceride levels or blood clotting problems or patients receiving hemodialysis should not supplement with ALC without consulting a physician.

Is It For You?

Vegetarians, seniors, and anyone who wants to obtain ALC’s positive effects would benefit from Primaforce’s Alcalean Acetyl-L-Carnitine supplementation. Nutritional support can be especially beneficial for athletes, body builders and avid gym-goers to enhance their physical performance and replenish their muscle’s energy stores. If you’re looking to lose weight, acetyl-l-carnitine can help burn fat, making it an important component of a weight management program. However, people with high triglyceride levels or blood clotting problems or patients receiving hemodialysis should not supplement with ALC without consulting a physician.

Dosage and Directions

As a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule 1 to 3 times per day.