Nitric oxide (NO), is biosynthesized within the body from L-arginine and oxygen by a variety of nitric oxide synthase enzymes.
It is a gaseous chemical compound that acts as an important signaling molecule within the human body.
The endothelium (inner layer) of blood vessels is involved in nitric oxide production, which acts on vascular smooth muscle cells to promote vasodilation.
In this regard, the primary effect is the potential increase in blood flow and nutrients.
Nitric oxide has received considerable attention over the past 20+ years from scientists and was even recognized as a “molecule of the year” by Science in 1992.
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts are constantly looking for methods to improve exercise performance and to lose body fat. Nitric oxide from GPLC shows promise for a favorable outcome in exercise performance and metabolism.
Glycine Propionyl L-Carnitine
Glycine Propionyl L-Carnitine (GPLC) is a molecular-bonded form of propionyl-L-carnitine and the amino acid glycine.
Glycine Propionyl L-Carnitine is categorized in the same family as carnitine and is very important in the formation of creatine.
As a dietary supplement, L-Carnitine has low oral bioavailability which is why Glycine-Propionyl-L-Carnitine is often used instead since it has higher bioavailability.
Glycine Propionyl L-Carnitine acts as an antioxidant, fights against free radicals, and protects against lipid peroxidation.
It assists in energy production by facilitating the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria and the removal of waste substances.
Glycine Propionyl L-Carnitine, GPLC helps protect against heart disease, type II diabetes, and kidney disease, even as experts continue to research its antioxidant properties.
Glycine-Propionyl-L-Carnitine and Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) may have anti-aging benefits and help reduce the likelihood of developing dysfunction of the mitochondria.
GPLC is also used to boost brain functioning by enhancing mental alertness and helping to protect neurons from oxidative impairment.
GPLC is also popular and talked about for its role in stimulating muscle growth and increasing exercise performance.
Glycine Propionyl-L-Carnitine and Exercise Metabolism
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts are constantly looking for methods to improve exercise performance and to lose additional body fat while adding more muscles.
The novel ingredient Glycine Propionyl-L-Carnitine (GPLC) is a component of several new nutritional supplements that are now commercially available, with the potential to influence exercise performance and muscle growth.
A 2009 study performed at Florida Atlantic University examined the effects of Glycine Propionyl-L-Carnitine, GPLC on the performance of repeated high-intensity stationary bike sprints with limited recovery periods in male patients.
The result showed that there was a significant effect, as the men who took the GPLC had 16.2% less LAC, which is considered a good effect as LAC can increase muscle tension during a workout and lead to muscle damage.
The study suggests that short-term oral supplementation of Glycine Propionyl-L-Carnitine, GPLC can enhance peak power production in resistance-trained males with significantly less LAC accumulation.
Suggested intake
Since Glycine Propionyl-L-Carnitine, GPLC is a novel nutrient, there is no official daily recommended intake but studies have shown that 4.5 grams are enough to have a positive effect on athletes.
Also, common dosages used in research for Glycine Propionyl L-Carnitine supplementation range between 1 and 6 grams daily.
L-Carnitine can also be added from the diet but at much lower dosage levels.
While supplements seem to be the focus of GPLC studies, many food sources are naturally rich in carnitine and should also be considered first over supplements.
Adding more beef, pork, chicken cheese, nuts, and dark leafy greens to your diet is recommended. It is believed that a 4-ounce steak of lean beef contains about 120 mg of L-carnitine.
Safety of Glycine-Propionyl-L-Carnitine
The correct dosage of any supplement depends on many variables including age, weight, personal sensitivities, and the reason for taking the supplement.
It is recommended that you always speak with your doctor before beginning any new supplements. This is to help determine the best dosage for your needs.
Taking GPLC orally is generally considered safe for most healthy adults, however, certain adverse side effects are possible.
In the majority of cases, these side effects are limited to temporary and mild gastrointestinal distress, like nausea, cramping, vomiting, and diarrhea.
However, when taken in high doses, L-Carnitine supplements have been reported to cause a fishy odor.
If you have either Alzheimer’s disease, renal disease, and/or a seizure disorder, make sure to speak with your doctor first before using Glycine-Propionyl-L-Carnitine supplementation.
Also, ensure to ask about possible interactions with prescribed drugs and/or medicinal herbs you may be using.