What is the difference between L-Carnitine and Acetyl-L-Carnitine?
L-Carnitine and Acetyl-L-Carnitine both have the capability to alleviate the effects of disease and ageing on the mitochondria of the human cell. Carnitine, the group name for both types, is a very important compound in the production of energy in the human body.
Carnitine is in charge of the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria of the cell where it gets burned or oxidized to produce energy. Carnitine is also critical in removing all toxic compounds generated in the mitochondria so they don’t accumulate.
The basic L-Carnitine form is popular for people who want to lose weight as it helps the body convert fat into energy. It is a good supplement for when you are exercising or doing your best to trim fat. You can see L-Carnitine as an ingredient in a number of weight loss products ranging from juices to supplements.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine is a “finer” form of Carnitine that can travel from our blood to the brain to detox & boost cognitive performance (nootropic). Things like memory, focus, attention etc. It has an extra acetyl group of hydrocarbons (extra oxygen, carbon and hydrogen attached to the molecule where there was once only a single hydrogen) that allow it to be better absorbed & utilised by the brain.
Acetyl L-Carnitine can also provide the substrate for the synthesis or production of acetylcholine which is a primary brain neurotransmitter. This benefit sits on top of the fat burning capability of L-Carnitine.
This is the reason why Acetyl L-Carnitine is the supplement of choice for people who want everything L carnitine has to offer plus the cognitive boost rather than just the fat burning.
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