Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) is the acetylated form of L-carnitine, an amino-acid derivative naturally present in the body, mainly in muscles and the brain. L-carnitine plays a key role in energy metabolism: it transports long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are converted into energy. The acetylated form stands out for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, giving it particular relevance for supporting cognitive function.

Now Foods provides 500 mg of pure acetyl-L-carnitine per vegetable capsule, with no unnecessary additives. The 50-capsule format is perfectly suited to a first course or a tolerance test before moving to the 100-capsule size.

Like all forms of carnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine helps transfer long-chain fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane, where they are oxidised to produce ATP, the cell’s energy currency. This role makes it a popular active among athletes and people seeking support for energy metabolism, particularly when the body draws more on fat as fuel.

The acetylated form’s specificity lies in its acetyl group, which can serve as a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter central to memory and learning. By crossing the blood-brain barrier, acetyl-L-carnitine supports neuronal energy metabolism and cognitive wellbeing — which is why ALC is often favoured over plain L-carnitine by people seeking both energy and mental clarity.

The usual dose is 1 to 2 capsules per day, ideally between meals with a large glass of water. The 50-capsule format thus covers 25 to 50 days of use depending on the chosen dose.

Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Reserved for adults; if pregnant, breastfeeding or undergoing medical treatment, seek professional health advice. Store in a dry place away from light and heat.

What’s the difference with the 100-capsule format?

The formula is identical (500 mg of acetyl-L-carnitine per vegetable capsule). Only the pack size changes: the 50-capsule format is a trial size, ideal for a first course, while the 100-capsule format offers better value over time.

What’s the difference between L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine?

Both support fatty-acid transport to the mitochondria. Acetyl-L-carnitine adds the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and contribute to acetylcholine synthesis, hence its relevance for cognitive support.

Is acetyl-L-carnitine suitable for vegans?

Yes. The capsules are plant-based (hypromellose) and the formula contains no animal-derived ingredient, gluten, soy or GMOs.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.