Since yesterday’s post discussed the energy and fat loss benefits of L-carnitine tartrate, I thought it might be best to discuss the brain boosting benefits of the other carnitine molecule which is used commonly as a supplement. Acetyl-L-carnitine helps to reverse some of the functional impairment which occurs in the energy powerhouses of cells known as the mitochondria, thereby improving cellular function. The natural oxidative process which occurs in cells has a cumulative and damaging effect on mitochondria which compromises cellular function throughout the body, but most notably in the brain. Numerous studies have confirmed that cognitive function is enhanced when subjects are given acetyl-l-carnitine. The most powerful safeguard against oxidative damage and free radical formation is to supplement with BOTH acetyl-l-carnitine and alpha-linoleic acid (ALA).

General recommended daily doses are the following:

Acetyl-l-carnitine: 500 to 1,500 milligrams per day

ALA: 150 to 450 milligrams per day

Source Naturals is a good brand to take and it offers a supplement which combines both acetyl-l-carnitine and ALA in one tablet. Each tablet has 500 mg of acetyl-l-carnitine and 150 mg of ALA, so you could safely take this supplement one to three times daily.