Acetyl L-carnitine. a substance closely related to the B vitamins. has a chemical structure similar to that of amino acids and is therefore typically considered to be part of the amino acid family. Acetyl L-carnitine is produced naturally in the body and is invaluable in the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins. Because brain levels decrease with age. older adults especially benefit from supplementing with this product.

Unlike true amino acids. Acetyl L-carnitine does not aid the body in protein synthesis or in the building of neurotransmitters. Instead. Acetyl L-carnitine helps to transport long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria. the energy production plants of the cell. These fatty acids are a primary source of energy for the muscles.