Acetyl L-carnitine is a nutrient produced by your body in the liver and kidneys and stored in your skeletal muscles, heart and brain. Your body can usually make all it needs, but if you suffer from a condition, such as angina, your body may be insufficient in the nutrient. Carnitine is a treatment for certain conditions because it aids in the reduction of oxidative stress. Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant made in your body that helps turn glucose into energy and destroys free radicals. It is both fat- and water-soluble, meaning it can function throughout your entire body.
Diabetes
Diabetic neuropathy is a condition in which high blood glucose levels damage the nerves in your body. This is prevalent in the arms, legs and feet. Acetyl L-carnitine may help reduce pain, improve feeling in the affected nerves and possibly help nerves regenerate. Alpha-lipoic acid may help control diabetes because it can lower blood glucose levels. It can also improve the symptoms, such as, tingling, itching and numbness, associated with diabetic neuropathy. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, intravenous doses of alpha-lipoic acid are the best treatment to reduce symptoms.
Heart Disease
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that the best evidence of L-carnitine’s benefits is its use for heart disease. L-carnitine can help decrease the symptoms of angina and improve your ability to workout without chest pain. If you suffer from a heart attack, taking L-carnitine may help reduce the risk of another heart attack. Consult with your doctor before supplementing with L-carnitine.
Brain Function
Alpha-lipoic acid has protective effects on your brain and nerve tissue because it can pass into your brain with ease. It is being investigated as a treatment for stroke and other brain disorders that involve free-radical damage. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, research has shown that animals treated with alpha-lipoic acid endured less brain damage and had a larger survival rate after a stroke than animals who did not receive the supplement.
Sources
Acetyl L-carnitine is found in red meat, primarily lamb, and dairy products. It is also found in fish, poultry, asparagus, avocados and peanut butter. L-carnitine is available in a supplement form, and the recommended dosage is between 1 to 3 grams per day, depending on which condition is being treated. Alpha-lipoic acid is found in red meat, liver and yeast. It is available in a capsule form or can be given through injection under the supervision of a doctor. There are no established recommendations for dosage, but alpha-lipoic acid is sold in doses of 30 to 100 milligrams.
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