Updated: September 24 2013
What Is It?L-Alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine (alpha-GPC) also called choline alfoscerate is found naturally in the brain and in milk. [1]
Sources of Alpha-GPC
Alpha-GPC is found naturally in milk.
Pharmacology
1. Bioavailability: ~100 % bioavailability with oral route
2. Half-life:
3. Mechanism of action: delivers choline (precursor of acetylcholine) to the brain across the blood–brain barrier. [2]
1. Notable decrease in cognitive decline (degenerative or vascular origin). [1]
2. Notable reduction of symptoms of Alzheimer disease, i.e. improved cognition in persons with Alzheimer disease; this is seen at the dose of 1,200mg over a prolonged period of time. [2]
3. Small increase in growth hormone (GH) level. [3,4]
4. Small increase in hepatic fat oxidation. [3]
5. Small and unrelialble increase in power output (14%). [4]
Conclusion
Seems to be beneficial.
Verdict: May be added to your supplement stackRecommended Dosage (Used in the Studies)
1. For increased power output and GH level: 300-600 mg daily
2. For cognitive effect/memory: 1,200 mg daily
Where Can You Buy This Supplement?
Amazon.com
Side Effects of This Supplement
1. Alpha GPC seems to be safe and has low toxicity. [5]
2. Possible side effects: dyspepsia (heartburn), headache, insomnia, dizziness, skin rash, and confusion. [6]
References
1. Cognitive improvement in mild to moderate Alzheimer's dementia after treatment with the acetylcholine precursor choline alfoscerate: a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
2. Cholinergic precursors in the treatment of cognitive impairment of vascular origin: ineffective approaches or need for re-evaluation?
3. Glycerophosphocholine enhances growth hormone secretion and fat oxidation in young adults
4. Acute supplementation with alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine augments growth hormone response to, and peak force production during, resistance exercise
5. Safety assessment of AGPC as a food ingredient.
6. WebMD - Alpha - GPC
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