Alpha GPC has been studied for its cognitive-enhancing effects, and it may be associated with benefits such as improved memory, enhanced mood, and increased neuroprotection. While you may not have heard of this natural product, it’s offered in supplement form as a constituent in some of the best wellness products on the market.
Alpha GPC (aka α-GPC) is the short name for L-Alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine, a naturally occurring choline-containing phospholipid present in the brain. When ingested, it is metabolized into choline and glycerol-1-phosphate. Choline is an essential nutrient and a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in various cognitive functions including memory, attention, and muscle contraction. Alpha GPC has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects in Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Some research suggests that it may improve cognitive function and slow down the progression of these conditions.
Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is another important phospholipid in the body, and it is metabolically related to Alpha GPC. PC is found in high concentrations in organs, especially the brain and the liver. It supports cell membrane integrity and is crucial for liver and gut health. Some studies have explored the cognitive benefits of PC as well.
Phosphatidylserine (PS) is also in the phospholipid class; it is found in high concentrations in the brain. It plays a vital role in cell signaling, neurotransmitter synthesis, and membrane fluidity. Naturally produced in the body, PS has been studied for its potential cognitive benefits and its role in supporting brain health.
Phosphocholine is a naturally occurring intermediate in the biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine. It is found in tissues and can be obtained from dietary supplements. It is also naturally occurring in eggs, particularly hens’ eggs.
Overall, these phospholipids – Alpha GPC, PC, and PS – have been the subject of research due to their potential cognitive and health benefits. Alpha GPC in particular has received attention for its ability to impede certain forms of dementia.
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Alpha GPC may prevent memory loss
Since the 1990s, studies on both animals and humans have shown that Alpha GPC can improve memory. To substantiate previous animal experiments, a human trial was conducted by giving individuals either a ten-day course of Alpha GPC or a placebo, followed by scopolamine to induce amnesia. Results showed that those supplemented with Alpha GPC demonstrated reduced memory impairment when partaking in memory and attention tasks.
Alpha GPC may boost cognitive function
Alpha GPC has been shown to increase acetylcholine levels in the brain, which may improve cognition in models of memory impairment or brain aging in preclinical studies conducted on animals. This was also demonstrated in randomized controlled trials using Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. The research suggests that Alpha GPC may potentially improve cognition in patients with certain forms of dementia, especially those with mild cognitive impairment. Clinical trial evaluations continue today, using Alpha GPC with other therapeutics to determine treatment responses.
Alpha GPC may enhance motivation
Aside from boosting acetylcholine concentrations in the brain, Alpha GPC is involved in cholinergic and monoaminergic transmission. Taking into consideration these neurotransmitter systems’ association with motivation, reward processing, anxiety, and depressive states, a study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Alpha GPC on human emotions.
The study utilized the KOKORO scale to survey healthy volunteers who participated in a single-blind, placebo-controlled design. Results indicated that daily Alpha GPC administration tended to increase daytime motivation levels compared to those given a placebo. Consequently, this research suggests that Alpha GPC may be used to enhance motivation in healthy individuals.
Alpha GPC may improve thinking and learning abilities
In a clinical setting, 32 healthy volunteers were divided into two groups: one group received Alpha GPC as a pretreatment, and the other group received a placebo. After ten days, all participants were injected with scopolamine, which is known to induce amnesia. Both groups were observed to be affected by scopolamine’s interference with attention and memory. The typical impairment of attention and memory caused by scopolamine diminished in the group that received Alpha GPC as a pretreatment. Accordingly, Alpha GPC appeared to protect against the cognitive consequences of scopolamine-induced amnesia.
Alpha GPC may boost muscle and athletic performance
Thirteen males in their college years participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over designed study that aimed to determine the effects of Alpha GPC supplementation on athletic performance. The participants underwent an initial visit to the laboratory, where they were introduced to the isometric mid-thigh pull exercise performed in a custom squat cage on a force platform, as well as an upper body isometric test using a high-frequency load cell. Baseline measurements were taken for both exercises. Subsequently, the participants were assigned to consume either 600 mg per day of Alpha GPC or a placebo for a duration of six days. At the end of this period, they performed the isometric mid-thigh pulls and the upper body isometric test.
A one-week washout period was implemented before measuring the participants’ baseline again and switching them to the placebo treatment. The Alpha GPC treatment led to a significantly greater change in peak force during the isometric mid-thigh pull exercise compared to the placebo. Supplementation with Alpha GPC for a period of six days effectively increased lower-body force production. Coaches aiming to help enhance muscle performance in speed and power athletes may consider incorporating Alpha GPC into their dietary recommendations.
myPEAK offers a competitive advantage
Alpha GPC can be purchased from a variety of companies offering supplements. That said, myPEAK is the premium supplier of many different supplements and their Wellness brand has received accolades for its performance enhancement and cognitive function improvement. Wellness is a comprehensive multivitamin supplement that supports overall wellness and healthy aging. With its blend of 27 ingredients including ElevATP® Ancient Peat, Apple Polyphenol Extract, Alpha GPC, Astaxanthin, and more, it provides a wide range of important nutrients and antioxidants. ElevATP® includes 70+ fulvic trace minerals. Fulvic minerals are known for their many health benefits, such as improving nutrient absorption and promoting overall well-being.
Most supplement companies are not managed or developed by medical doctors or nutrition specialists. This, however, is not the case at myPEAK; Bhargav Patel and Urja Shah, the founders of mPEAK, are physicians with extensive medical backgrounds and a shared fervor for health. Customer wellness is myPEAK’s passion – Bhargav and Urja offer what they already consume themselves. Many nutritional supplements are either excessive, inadequate, or compounded inappropriately, resulting in a lack of optimal effectiveness. myPEAK blends and doses based on its founders’ established scientific expertise in human physiology, genetics, nutrition, and cellular biology, as well as their extensive knowledge of the ingredients incorporated.
An obvious natural plus
Alpha GPC has emerged as a promising natural compound with potential cognitive-enhancing effects. Its ability to improve memory, enhance mood, and exhibit neuroprotective properties make it an intriguing supplement for individuals seeking to optimize their mental performance and overall brain health. While it may not be widely known, Alpha GPC is widely available in wellness products on the market today. By incorporating Alpha GPC into their diets, individuals may be able to gain a noticeable advantage in memory, cognition, motivation, and even athletic performance. As ongoing research continues to shed light on its therapeutic potential, Alph GPC proves to be a promising path for individuals looking to enhance their cognitive abilities and support their overall well-being.
Further reading:
Journal of the International Society of Sports Medicine: Evaluation of the effects of two doses of alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine on physical and psychomotor performance
Journal of the International Society of Sports Medicine: Acute supplementation with alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine augments growth hormone response to, and peak force production during, resistance exercise
Wikipedia: Alpha-GPC
Cognitive Vitality: Alpha-GPC (Choline Alfoscerate)
Examine: Alpha-GPC
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
