Alpha GPC Benefits
Most substances found on this planet are helpful for your body if taken in moderation. Something only becomes toxic or dangerous when taken in excess.
Your body also makes many substances, including a chemical called Alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine (Alpha-GPC). Some experiments and studies have shown that Alpha-GPC can offer multiple benefits.
What is Alpha GPC?
Alpha-GPC is a chemical that your body makes naturally. It’s also present in various foods and prepared in laboratories for various purposes.
Some studies have shown that Alpha-GPC may increase acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain. This substance is essential for brain functions like learning and memory.
Researchers have also learned that when Athletes take Alpha-GPC supplements, it prevents exercise-induced reductions in choline levels. Besides, it also boosts endurance power and growth hormone secretion.
Below, we will find out all the benefits which Alpha GPC supplements may provide with continuous use.
Alpha GPC
Over the years, many people have started using Alpha-GPC supplements, and they claim to have benefited from it. In Europe, Alpha GPC is available as prescription medicine. However, in the US, you can find it only as a dietary supplement.
Though our body makes the chemical, it’s only in small quantities. So, taking some supplements can be helpful in different ways.
The following are some of the benefits you may get from using the Alpha-GPC supplement. It may
Improve memory and thinking skills
People suffer from memory loss and their ability to think due to various reasons. Alzheimer’s disease is one of the reasons which can make people lose their memory power and thinking skills.
Since the use of Alpha-GPC has shown positive effects, many doctors prescribe it for their patients. Alzheimer’s patients given 1200mg per day for about six months showed improvement in thinking ability and memory.
People with dementia also suffer from memory loss, and patients prescribed with Alpha-GPC have also displayed signs of improvement.
Anyone having problems with thinking skills and memory loss can also take a high-quality supplement after consulting with their doctor.
Help stroke patients to recover faster and better
People who suffer from strokes lose many of their abilities and become slow. Sometimes it can take a long time to get back to normal. While there are plenty of medicines for the treatment, not many of them work.
In some experiments, experts have also found out that stroke patients who received Alpha-GPC within ten days recovered quicker and better. Studies show that people who took 1200mg per day via shots for twenty-eight days and 400mg three times a day orally for about six months improved their brain functions.
Boost the release of dopamine
Dopamine is a vital substance produced in the brain, and it has many functions. It’s also called the ‘feel good’ neurotransmitter because it acts as a messenger. When dopamine is released, it makes you more motivated, focused and pleased.
Initial experiments have also shown that taking Alpha-GPC may increase dopamine levels. So, it can be a good supplement for those who have a dopamine deficiency. It can help in reducing stress, anxiety and depression.
It can also help you become more motivated and enable you to perform your tasks faster and more eagerly.
Increase growth hormone levels
Growth hormone plays a vital role in our body, and it needs to stay active. Some studies had also indicated a rise in growth hormone levels when some volunteers took Alpha-GPC supplements. However, there is more research to be done before experts can come to a conclusion.
Enhance physical endurance
Alpha-GPC supplementation may also increase your endurance power, as seen from some experiments. Athletes and bodybuilders require undergoing extensive training but may get exhausted fast.
Hence, it can be a valuable supplement for those who have to work out for long periods. Regular use can help them perform the exercises longer, even if it’s incredibly intensive.
Boost other brain functions
Taking Alpha-GPC supplements may also improve other brain functions like learning ability and attention. It may also improve mental clarity and boost mental energy. As a result, you can perform your daily tasks with ease.
But it will be best to seek a doctor’s advice before starting a course, especially if you are under any medical treatment.
Increase energy levels
A regular dose of Alpha-GPC supplement can also keep you energized all day long. Whether your job requires you to be physically active or sit in front of your computer, you will stay active and focused.
However, there is one thing to keep in mind. While it’s a good thing to stay active, it may hamper your sleep pattern. So, avoid taking it in the afternoon or the evening. Else, you will stay up all night without sleep.
Food rich in Choline
Choline is one of the compositions in Alpha-GPC, and it’s present in several food items like:
- Fish
- Meat
- Poultry
- Eggs
- Dairy products
- Cruciferous vegetables
- Nuts and seeds
- Whole grains
Dosage
There is no particular dosage, but 1200mg per day is a safe amount since most doctors prescribe that quantity to their dosage.
If you plan to use a supplement, follow the recommended dose on the product’s label or as directed by your doctor.
While the Alpha-GPC is safe, some individuals may have side effects like fatigue, diarrhea, headache, nausea and gastrointestinal issues. Speak with your doctor and continue after you get a green signal.
What Type of Alpha GPC supplement Should You Use?
Soy and sunflower lecithin are the most used ingredients for making Alpha-GPC. However, many people are allergic to soy, or they don’t want to use it. If you are one of those people, check the label that says ‘no soy’ before buying any product.
You will find many products, but not all may have high-quality and pure ingredients. So, do research and go through reviews to find the best supplement for excellent results and safety.
Experiments and studies conducted over the years have shown that Alpha-GPC could improve many bodily functions in general and brain function in particular.
There is still a lot to be learned, though, and researchers are still trying to find out if it can boost more functions.
In the meantime, you can use a good supplement for all the issues mentioned earlier. But again, always stay within the dosage to have great results without side effects. Regular usage can boost your brain health and overall well-being.