Alpha-GPC Educational Handout
What is it?
l-Alpha-glycerophophatidylcholine (GPC-choline, alpha-GPC) is a water-soluble phospholipid and neurotransmitter precursor naturally occurring in the body. Unlike most membrane phospholipids, alpha-GPC is water-soluble because it lacks the hydrophobic tail groups.*
Uses for Alpha-GPC:
- Memory and Cognitive Health: Alpha-GPC passes through the blood brain barrier providing a source of choline for acetylcholine and phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis. By supporting cell membrane fluidity and integrity, phosphatidylcholine enhances healthy neurotransmitter function and signal transduction (1-3). Alpha-GPC may support healthy phospholipid turnover in the brain, helping to counteract age-related cellular breakdown of membrane phospholipids (1,3). Acetylcholine is a key neurotransmitter in the brain supporting memory and learning. Optimal phospholipid and acetylcholine levels support cognitive, mental and cerebrovascular health (1-3). *
- Growth Hormone support: Alpha-GPC has the ability to potentiate growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH), thereby supporting healthy growth hormone (GH) levels (4). The mechanism of support appears to involve increased cholinergic tone (4). *
What is the source?
Alpha-GPC is derived from highly purified soy lecithin.
How much is usually taken?
Pure Encapsulations recommends 400 mg of stabilized Alpha-GPC, standardized to contain 50% L-alpha-glycerophosphatidylcholine, three times per day, with or between meals.
Are there any side effects or precautions?
May cause some gastrointestinal irritation, headache or insomnia in a small percentage of people (2). Not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.
Potential drug interactions:
No drug interactions have been reported to date.
References:
1.) P M Kidd. Phospholipids: Versatile Nutraceutical Ingredients For Functional Foods. Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals. December 2002.
2.) Barbagallo Sangiorgi G, Barbagallo M, Giordano M, Meli M, Panzarasa R. alpha-Glycerophosphocholine in the mental recovery of cerebral ischemic attacks: An Italian multicenter clinical trial. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1994 Jun 30;717:253-69.
3.) Parnetti L, Abate G, Bartorelli L, Cucinotta D, Cuzzupoli M, Maggioni M, Villardita C, Senin U. Multicentre study of l-alpha-glyceryl-phosphorylcholine vs ST200 among patients with probable senile dementia of Alzheimer's type. Drugs Aging 1993 Mar-Apr;3(2):159-64.
4.) Ceda GP, Ceresini G, Denti L, Marzani G, Piovani E, Banchini A, Tarditi E, Valenti G. alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine administration increases the GH responses to GHRH of young and elderly subjects. Horm Metab Res 1992 Mar;24(3):119-21.
For educational purposes only. Consult your physician for any health problems.
*This is a statement of nutritional support. This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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