This compound increases all types of performance, from workouts and sports to gaming and learning. Luckily, it's perfectly legal.
In the supplement world, ingredients are often grouped into categories like bodybuilding, athletic performance, brain health, or longevity. Take this one to build bigger muscles, take that one to stay mentally sharp, and take this other one to help you avoid certain disease states.
But there's considerable overlap. For example, supplemental magnesium helps ward off depression and anxiety, but it's also involved in hormone synthesis and improving free testosterone levels. Another natural compound stands out when it comes to all types of performance, physical and mental: Alpha-Glycerophosphocholine or Alpha-GPC.
Alpha-GPC is a "pre-workout" ingredient proven to enhance gym and sport performance, but it also happens to be a cognitive enhancer that boosts focus and mental clarity. Alpha-GPC is a true performance-enhancing supplement, no matter what kind of performance you're after.
Alpha-GPC: The All-Performance Enhancer
Alpha-GPC is a compound found in the brain and in tiny amounts in certain foods, like organ meats. It's a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory, focus, and (oddly enough) muscle contraction. It also supports phospholipid synthesis, crucial for cell membrane integrity. Let's break it down:
Physical Performance
- Power Output: Alpha-GPC enhances explosive strength and power. One study showed that 600 mg of Alpha-GPC taken before exercise increased bench press force and power output in experienced lifters.
- Muscle Recovery: Alpha-GPC supports recovery by reducing exercise-induced declines in choline levels, which impair muscle performance. Its neuroprotective effects also aid recovery from intense training.
- Growth Hormone Release: Alpha-GPC increases growth hormone secretion and fat oxidation, which benefits muscle growth and body composition in bodybuilders.
Cognitive Enhancement
- Mechanism: Alpha-GPC increases acetylcholine levels, which improve focus, mental sharpness, and reaction time.
- Benefits: Enhanced mind-muscle connection, better concentration, and improved decision-making in high-pressure situations.
- Evidence: Studies suggest Alpha-GPC (doses of 250-600 mg) improves cognitive function and attention.
Health Benefits
- Neuroprotection: Alpha-GPC supports brain health by maintaining neuronal membrane integrity and reducing cognitive decline.
- Liver Function: It supports fat metabolism in the liver, aiding overall metabolic health.
- Well-Being: Alpha-GPC improves mood and reduces fatigue.
Dosing Guidelines
Generally, 300-600 mg is considered safe and effective for physical and cognitive enhancement. While Alpha-GPC occurs naturally in some foods, the amounts are small and impractical. For example, a large whole egg contains roughly 15 mg, but you need at least 300 mg for a therapeutic or enhancement effect. And some pre-workout supplements only use 150 mg.
Ideally, take 300-600 mg about 20-40 minutes before workouts or mentally demanding activities. Biotest Igniter contains 600 mg of Alpha-GPC per serving, along with a host of other physical and mental performance enhancers.
