Alpha-GPC – what is it? Definition, action and application

Definition of Alpha-GPC

Alpha-GPC (full name: alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine) is a natural chemical compound that is a derivative of choline, a component which plays a key role in the proper functioning of the nervous system. This substance occurs in trace amounts in foods such as meat, fish and offal, but it is most often obtained synthetically and used in dietary supplements. Alpha-GPC is regarded as one of the most effective sources of choline, because it is characterised by high bioavailability and the body absorbs it with ease.

Alpha-GPC and choline

Choline is an essential nutrient which takes part in the formation of acetylcholine – the neurotransmitter responsible for memory, concentration and mental performance. Alpha-GPC is a form of choline which crosses the blood–brain barrier very well, and it therefore constitutes an effective way of increasing its level in the central nervous system. Thanks to this, supplements containing Alpha-GPC are used in order to support cognitive functions and to improve memory and concentration.

The use of Alpha-GPC in supplementation

Alpha-GPC has gained popularity above all in the dietary supplement and nutraceutical industry. Its main applications include:

• Supporting memory and concentration – used by people who work intellectually, by students and by older people who want to counteract a decline in cognitive function.
• Support in neurodegenerative diseases – studies indicate that Alpha-GPC may be helpful in supportive therapy for patients with Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
• Improvement of mood – choline plays a role in the regulation of neurotransmitters, which may have a beneficial effect on well-being.
• Support for athletes – there is evidence that supplementation with Alpha-GPC supports the production of growth hormone, which may increase regeneration and physical performance.

Alpha-GPC and brain health

Regularly supplying the body with an adequate amount of choline is of significant importance for the health of the brain. Alpha-GPC improves nerve conduction, supports neuroplasticity and may delay the processes associated with the ageing of the nervous system. Supplements with Alpha-GPC are often chosen by older people in order to maintain intellectual performance for longer. In addition, this substance may support convalescence after a stroke, because it promotes the regeneration of nerve cells.

Alpha-GPC, sport and regeneration

Apart from the benefits for the brain, Alpha-GPC also finds application in the world of sport. Studies suggest that supplementation with this compound may raise the level of growth hormone, which is responsible for the regeneration of muscles and for speeding up repair processes after intense exertion. Athletes who use Alpha-GPC also notice an improvement in concentration during training and increased motor coordination.

Dosage of Alpha-GPC

The dosage of Alpha-GPC depends on the aim of supplementation. The amounts most commonly used are:

• 200–400 mg – in order to improve concentration and memory,
• 600–1200 mg – in clinical studies concerning patients with Alzheimer's disease,
• 300–600 mg – in athletes, in order to increase performance and regeneration.

It should always be remembered, however, that supplementation is worth discussing with a doctor or a dietitian, particularly in the case of older people, pregnant women and people taking other medicines.

Possible side effects

Alpha-GPC is regarded as a safe substance, particularly when used in the recommended doses. In some people, however, mild adverse effects may occur, such as headaches, nausea or slight irritation of the digestive tract. Doses that are too high may lead to excessive stimulation of the nervous system, which is why the recommended amount should not be exceeded.

Alpha-GPC and other forms of choline

Several forms of choline are available on the supplement market, including choline bitartrate and choline citrate. Alpha-GPC, however, stands out with its considerably better absorption and its effectiveness in increasing the level of choline in the brain. Thanks to this it is regarded as the most effective and the most recommended form, particularly in the context of supporting cognitive functions.

Alpha-GPC in scientific research

Many studies confirm the beneficial action of Alpha-GPC. The results indicate that this substance improves memory, learning ability and concentration, and that it may also support the treatment of neurological disorders. Studies on athletes also suggest that supplementation with Alpha-GPC leads to an improvement in strength results and in post-exercise regeneration. Further analyses are still needed, however, in order to confirm fully all the mechanisms of action of this substance.

Summary

Alpha-GPC is a modern and effective supplement supporting both the health of the brain and the regeneration of the body. As a highly absorbable form of choline, it finds application in people of every age – from students, through people who work intellectually, all the way to seniors and athletes. Thanks to its role in the production of acetylcholine, Alpha-GPC supports memory, concentration and cognitive functions, and in addition it may influence muscle regeneration and physical performance. This makes it one of the most frequently chosen choline supplements.

My name is Dorota Wątróbska-Świetlikowska, I am a pharmacist and a scientist holding a habilitated doctorate in pharmaceutical sciences. I decided to combine my scientific knowledge and my experience in order to create dietary supplements of the highest quality.

My passion and main area of research are submicron dispersion systems, such as submicron emulsions, liposomes and lipospheres. After obtaining my doctorate, I turned my attention to the practical aspects of parenteral nutrition, bringing together the needs of the patient and the possibilities open to the pharmacist. Quality, safety and efficacy matter most to me , which is visible both in my scientific work and in my approach to creating Dwatro Laboratories® supplements.