What is alpha GPC?

Alpha GPC is a type of choline, an essential nutrient required for various bodily functions and overall health such as liver function, healthy brain development and muscle movement. While the body is capable of producing some choline, it is vital to get enough choline from your diet to avoid deficiency.

While choline plays a role in many areas of health, alpha GPC in particular is best known for its benefits on brain health and cognitive function. It is highly bio-available, more so than other types of choline, meaning it can easily cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate an important neurotransmitter that promote cognitive health called acetylcholine.

Benefits

Boosts memory

Alpha GPC is said to improve memory and learning as it increases acetylcholine in the brain, a chemical that is vital for cognitive health. Research also suggests that alpha GPC may improve cognitive decline related to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. One study showed that after taking alpha GPC for 180 days, patients with Alzheimer’s show consistent cognitive improvement compared to those taking a placebo.

May enhance athletic performance

Recent interest in alpha GPC has peaked amongst athletes due studies supporting its ergogenic properties. It has the potential to improve stamina, physical strength and shorten recovery time after a workout. Studies suggest the compound can elevate growth hormones, which play a role in maintaining healthy human tissue as well as cell regeneration and growth.

Improves focus and learning

Not only does alpha GPC improve memory in those with cognitive impairments, but studies also found it improves focus, memory and learning in healthy adults, too. One study found that increasing choline intake was related to better cognitive performance, while another study found alpha GPC supplementation to be beneficial for certain physical and mental performance tasks.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3776389/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3313098/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252552/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4595381/