Where one of my friends work, they receive 25kg barrels of L-Carnipure Crystalline aka L-Carnitine Crystalline.
One of the uses, according to the manufacturer, is for forming tablets/pills, for the health/pharmaceutical industry.
Don't want to put manufacturers name here. But they are the largest manufacturer located in Basel, Switzerland.
Sometimes things are damaged. Either during transit from the vendor, or within the wearhouse.
Damage is put in the reject area. Then on disposal day, all damaged or rejected product is loaded onto a truck, and sent to the landfill.
ANYWAY, I have also seen the container, and the info on the container, as described above.
He can get me some wherever I want it...
I have a gram scale. I would get a small plastic scooper that would equate to 1 gram.
Would it be possible to dose this stuff? Or since its pure crystalline, would that cause concentration differences?
Also, been doing research on Acetyl L Carnitine vs L-Carnitine, but not getting the best results.
If you had access to the L-Carnitine I speak of, would you dose it, since its available?
Some info I have read...not sure if Its a good idea to link to outside sites....
Acetyl-L-Carnitine:
The Lesser Known Cousin
Acetyl-L-Carnitine: The Lesser Known Cousin Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) is the powerful but lesser known cousin of L-carnitine (LC), a natural cellular amino acid synthesized by the body. LC is required for the conversion of fat, one of three types of cellular fuel, to chemical energy. LC functions as a vehicle to transport subunits of fat, fatty acids, into the specialized cellular structures, the mitochondria, for conversion to a chemical form of energy. A deficiency in LC, common in vegetarians (vegans), aging, and those who use certain prescribed drugs, results in a tired physical and mental state.
How is it different?
Structurally, the difference between the acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) and L-carnitine (LC) is that ALC is an LC molecule that also contains an attached acetic acid group. This structural difference is small, but it produces a considerable difference in the biochemical properties of the molecule and, consequently, in its effects on metabolism. Acetyl-L-carnitine can substitute for L-carnitine in fat metabolism; however, as described below, recent studies have resulted in identification of several biological characteristics that are unique to acetyl-L-carnitine .
1.) The acetyl group on acetyl-L-carnitine can be donated to a specific acceptor molecule, choline, to form the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which helps restore nerve function. This activity is believed to be at least partly responsible for the improved mental function that results from acetyl-L-carnitine supplementation in patients with cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and other disorders of the nervous system. Additional studies supporting a neuroprotective role for acetyl-L-carnitine are those demonstrating an improvement in symptoms of peripheral nerve damage common to diabetic patients.
2.) The acetyl group can also be utilized for the production of energy in the Krebs cycle. This donation increases the availability of an important cofactor (CoA) required for the conversion of carbohydrates to energy. Sufficient amounts of carnitine, derived from acetyl-L-carnitine, are necessary to transport, toxic, non-metabolizable, short-chain fatty acids, out of the mitochondria, and thus to free up the cofactor, CoA. A deficiency in acetyl-L-carnitine promotes a corresponding decrease in this cofactor, and consequently impaired energy production from both fats and carbohydrates, thus affecting energy levels in all cells of the body.
3.) ALC, but not LC, has been demonstrated to protect the nervous system, partly because it more readily is transported into the nervous system. Recent studies with humans have indicated many of the age-associated disorders involving the nervous system, such as depression, impaired cognition, and decreased mental alertness, may be at least partially a response to a deficiency in ALC.
4.) ALC, but not LC, protects the mitochondria. A recent finding demonstrated that a deficiency in ALC affects the structure and energy-producing capacity of the mitochondria. The mitochondria are responsible for producing virtually all the energy required by the cell. Therefore any subtle change in their structure can have a tremendous effect on the cell's energy reserves. ALC has been demonstrated to revitalize mitochondria by restoring levels of a key mitochondrial component, a phospholipid known as cardiolipin, which is susceptible to age-associated reduction in levels. Cardiolipin can be envisioned as the glue that secures and organizes, or better yet, orchestrates, the energy-producing machinery of the mitochondria.
5.) The acetic acid group on ALC allows it to enter the mitochondria more readily than LC and consequently more rapidly perform its beneficial effects An additional enzyme must act on LC before it can enter the mitochondria.
How can it affect physical and mental state?
These characteristics raise some questions. First, why would a deficiency in a fat-burning chemical affect our physical as well as mental state? The two systems of the body requiring the most energy are the muscular and nervous systems. It has been estimated that for normal function and health, the brain requires every day the amount of energy present in a quarter pound of sugar. A lack of energy in brain and muscle tissues will be exhibited as impaired physical and mental activity. If the deficiency persists for a sufficient period of time, it can lead to disease.
Although the brain normally does not use fat for energy, (it prefers glucose from carbohydrates), except under conditions of fasting or starvation, it nevertheless can be adversely affected by a deficiency in ALC, because of all 5 of the numbered items described above.
Where does it come from?
Although the cells of the body do produce this important chemical, it is widely believed that the major source of the compound is derived from the diet. Meat, lamb especially, is the major dietary source of ALC, and the basis for why vegans can be deficient in ALC, since plants contain insignificant amounts.
Studies with animals have recently demonstrated a gradual decline in plasma levels of ALC with age, which correlates with age-associated energy decline. Additional studies with humans have indicated a steady decline in ALC, beginning with the fourth decade of life. This too is correlated with energy decline. This decline in plasma ALC may be a reflection of inefficient absorption from the diet and/or reduced synthesis. Both are believed to be responsible for the lower levels of ALC as we age. In view of the age-associated decline in the ability of the body to synthesize and absorb ALC, use of dietary supplements to ensure adequate ALC is a growing trend in healthy aging.
Carnitine, or L-carnitine, is a naturally occurring substance found in most cells of the body, particularly the brain and neural tissues, muscles, and heart. Carnitine, whose structure is similar to choline, is widely available in animal foods (meat, poultry, fish and dairy products), whereas plants have very small amounts. Most non-vegetarians consume about 100 to 300 mg of carnitine a day, and the body is able to synthesize this nutrient if dietary intake is inadequate. When ingested as a pill, carnitine is not able to cross the blood-brain barrier as well as its activated form Acetyl-L-Carnitine. Acetyl-l-carnitine has a significantly more noticeable effect on the mind than carnitine. Acetyl-l-carnitine usually enhances mental clarity and focus, along with slight mood elevation. The effects of carnitine are more physicial than mental, in the sense that carnitine may provide physical energy whereas acetyl-l-carnitine provides more mental energy.
Both acetyl-l-carnitine and carnitine are antioxidants, although the former may be more powerful.
Acetylcarnitine (also spelled as acetyl l-carnitine, or l-acetylcarnitine) and carnitine play several important roles in the human body. These nutrients shuttle acetyl groups and fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. Without carnitine, fatty acids cannot easily enter into mitochondria. The acetyl group of acetyl l carnitine is used to form acetyl-CoA, the most important intermediary in the generation of energy from amino acids, fats, and carbohydrates. Therefore, acetyl l carnitine serves as an energy reservoir of acetyl groups and both acetylcarnitine and carnitine help improve energy production. The acetyl group is also used to make the important brain chemical acetylcholine. Some studies suggest that perhaps acetyl l carnitine can even act as a neurotransmitter itself. This name of this nutrient is sometimes abbreviated as ALC or ALCAR.
What you may notice by taking an acetylcarnitine supplement
Those who take carnitine pills notice an increase in physical energy, but not as much mental energy. Acetyl l carnitine has a significantly more immediate and noticeable mental effect than carnitine because it crosses into the brain much better. The mind boosting effect of ALC is often noticed within a few hours, or even within an hour. Most people report feeling mentally sharper, having more focus and being more alert. Some find a mild mood enhancement. Although most pills are sold in 500 mg capsules, I prefer using smaller amounts such as 200 to 300 mg in the morning, on an empty stomach. Higher dosages may cause stomach upset or mild headache.
L Carnitine Vs. Acetyl L Carnitine
In the world of nutrition, bodybuilding and fitness, amino acids have a special place. They enhance metabolic functions, build muscle, and help the mechanism that burns fat. Many of these amino acids are marketed in products at specialty stores, but sometimes it's hard to tell between various products with similar names, like L-carnitine and Acetyl L-carnitine.
What is Carnitine (L-carnitine)?
1. According to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, carnitine, also known as L-carnitine, plays a major role in energy production. The amino acid "transports long-chain fatty acids to [cellular] mitochondria so they can be oxidized ("burned") to produce energy." L-carnitine also transports toxins out of the mitochondria. The amino acid is found in muscle tissue, liver, heart and brain.
The liver and kidneys produce this amino acid. Excess is excreted in the urine. Healthy people who have a well-rounded diet rarely need supplements. Those suffering kidney and liver problems need to consult their doctors regarding the use of L-carnitine. Those on certain medications for seizures and thyroid conditions should also consult a doctor on the use of L-carnitine.
Uses for L-carnitine
2. Outside of L-carnitine's functions in muscle and organ, the amino acid has been studied for possible therapeutic effects on male infertility. L-carnitine has been shown to enhance the effect of Sildenafil (Viagra), thus aiding in erectile dysfunction. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and hyperthyroidism are also conditions for which L-carnitine may have a beneficial effect. L-Carnitine is also being looked at for effects on heart disease and blood circulation, fatigue due to cancer chemotherapy and benefits for those who suffer from kidney ailments and HIV/AIDS.
Where do we Get L-carnitine?
3. We synthesize carnitine in our bodies or we can get it from from red meats, milk and some grains. We can also get the amino acid from supplements.
What is Acetyl L-carnitine?
4. Acetyl L-carnitine is the acetylated form of L-carnitine. This form of L-carnitine is more easily accessed by the body, as it absorbs into the small intestine and passes through the blood-brain barrier more efficiently. This form of carnitine is often used to treat carnitine deficiencies.
Acetyl L-carnitine has been studied extensively for properties that may benefit those who suffer Alzheimer's disease. The amino acid has also been studied for potential effects on Peyronie's disease and diabetic neuropathy.
L-carnitine, Acetyl L-carnitine and Fitness
5. Both L-carnitine and Acetyl L-carnitine have been marketed for their benefits to bodybuilding, physical performance and weight loss. The Amazon.com product description for IDS Acetyl L- Carnitine capsules claims that the product "Enhances Immune system function. Enhances hormone levels. Enhances mood."
However, according to the NIH, "twenty years of research finds no consistent evidence that carnitine supplements can improve exercise or physical performance in healthy subjects..."
