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Product Description
GPLC is a propionyl ester of carnitine (PLC) that includes an additional glycine component. Compared with other forms of carnitine, PLC exhibits a special affinity for muscle tissues, including those of the heart and skeletal muscles. GPLC is a powerful scavenger against superoxide radicals and it protects against lipid peroxidation. It assists energy production by facilitating the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria and, likewise, the removal of waste substances. GPLC contributes to muscle function by compensating for reduced oxygen availability during exercise and it provides powerful support for peripheral arterial blood flow. Under reduced oxygen conditions, GPLC also promotes proper carbohydrate metabolism and reduces the buildup of lactic acid.
What does the research show about GPLC?
In a study conducted by Smith et al. [15], led by Dr. Richard Bloomer (University of Memphis), a group of untrained men and women were randomly assigned to one of three treatments: a placebo, 1.5 grams of GPLC or 4.5 grams of GPLC. The subjects ingested the treatments for eight weeks in combination with a cycling endurance program. By obtaining test values prior to and following the eight weeks of training, Smith et al. found a significant decrease in oxidative stress from both groups that were taking GPLC versus the placebo. In other words, GPLC lessened the damage commonly experienced with exercise; this helps with the recovery aspect of training. In addition, both GPLC groups experienced substantial increases in anaerobic threshold. This means that GPLC may allow you to train at high intensities for a longer amount of time without the detrimental interference of lactic acid accumulation setting in.
In another recent study conducted by Bloomer et al. [16], administration of GPLC to resistance trained men demonstrated nitric oxide boosting effects. The enhanced blood flow as a result of an increase nitric oxide levels is advantageous for both aerobic and anaerobic athletes. For those who partake in endurance sports (i.e. marathons, long-distance rowing, cross country skiing), an optimized blood flow may improve exercise performance. [17, 18] For individuals dedicated to resistance training (i.e. bodybuilders, athletes in training) an enhanced blood flow from increased nitric oxide leads to increased protein synthesis from enhanced amino acid delivery to recovering muscles. [19]
Vasodilation occurs naturally under certain conditions in the body such as: a threat to oxygen levels in which the need for oxygen increases or oxygen availability becomes insufficient, muscular work demands intensifying, increases in body temperature, increase oxidative metabolism in which concentrations of carbon dioxide increase, and decreases in pH commonly associated with lactic acid accumulation. As exercise intensity and duration increases; vasodilation becomes a necessity. If vasodilation capacity becomes hindered, then exercise intensity/duration becomes compromised as a result of reduced blood flow. [1] Therefore, by inducing nitric oxide release you are optimizing the oxygen and nutrient delivery system to working muscles not only during but after workouts which is ideal for recovery.
The myths about arginine
Interesting to note for consumers of marketed vasodilators is the fallacy of claims for argentine as a nitric oxide booster. While arginine, a conditionally essential amino acid, is a precursor for nitric oxide; research has failed to demonstrate improvements in vascularity from oral supplementation. [20, 21] As a matter of fact the only way arginine can effectively induce a vasodilation effect is with intrafusion [22], which is highly impractical along with high oral doses likely to cause gastric distress [23]. Furthermore, arginine alpha-ketoglutarate is commonly touted as a potent nitric oxide level enhancer. This erroneously proclaimed ingredient, however, does not have the research to back such claims either. [24]
More support for GPLC
Not only is GPLC’s affinity for nitric oxide of benefit for athletes but also for individuals who may develop insulin resistance with oncoming of age. Insulin is a modulator of nitric oxide synthesis and release, and therefore, a remarked regulator of vasodilation. [25] The relationship between insulin and nitric oxide has been made fairly apparent through research. The more sensitive you are to insulin, the more enhanced your insulin mediated vasodilation will be. [26] Therefore, in the case of insulin resistance, such as with diabetes or aging, insulin’s ability to modulate nitric oxide lessens. When nitric oxide lessens, the potential for vasodilation diminishes, making one more susceptible to hypertension since blood can’t flow as freely.
GPLC is the only form of carnitine to show direct increases in nitric oxide with or without carbohydrate intake (which promotes additional insulin-mediated vasodilation and carnitine retention [25, 27]) superior to alternative forms of carnitine. As research continues to uncover more advantageous effects of GPLC, its genuine efficacy as an ergogenic aid and aid of various medical conditions will surface with proclamation in the supplement industry.
Thus it seems that since there is only data showing that GPLC positively impacts nitric oxide production (thus the delivery of nutrients to your muscles) and studies support its use as an ergogenic aid (positive sports supplement), this product should be a no-brainer in terms of being part of one’s armament for athletic and nutritional success.
Supplement Facts
Serving Size 4 scoops (2g)
Servings Per Container
Amount Per Serving
Glycine Propionyl-L-Carnitine 2000mg †
† Daily Value not established
Directions: As a dietary supplement, take 4 scoops twice daily
References
1. Jacobs paper
2. Kraemer WJ, Volek SJ, Dunn-Lewis C. L-carnitine supplementation: influence upon physiological function. Curr Sports Med Rep. 2008. 7(4):218-23.
3. Gorostiaga EM, Maurer CA, Eclache JP. Decrease in respiratory quotient during exercise following L-carnitine supplementation. Int J Sports Med. 1989. 10(3):169-74.
4. Evans JD, Jacobs TF, Evans EW. Role of acetyl-L-carnitine in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Ann Pharmacother. 2008. 42(11):1686-91.
5. Sima AA, Calvani M, Mehra M, Amato A, Acetyl-L-Carnitine Study Group. Acetyl-L-carnitine improves pain, nerve regeneration and vibratory perception in patients with chronic diabetic neuropathy: an analysis of two randomized placebo-controlled trials. Diabetes Care. 2005. 28(1):89-94.
6. Epis R, Marcello E, Gardoni F, Longhi A, Calvani M, Iannuccelli M, Cattabeni F, Canonico PL, Di Luca M. Modulatory effect of acetyl-l-carnitine on amyloid precursor protein metabolism in hippocampal neurons. Eur J Pharmacol. 2008. 597(1-3):51-6.
7. Hudson S, Tabet N. Acetyl-L-carnitine for dementia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2003. 2:CD003158.
8. Ferrari R and De Giuli F. The propionyl-L-carnitine hypothesis: an alternative approach to treating heart failure. J Card Fail. 1997. 3(3): 217-24.
9. Ferrari R, Merli E, Cicchitelli G, Mele D, Fucili A, Ceconi C. Therapeutic effects of L-carnitine and propionyl-L-carnitine on cardiovascular diseases: a review. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2004. 1033:79-91.
10. Barker GA, Green S, Askew CD, Green AA, Walker PJ. Effect of propionyl-L-carnitine on exercise performance in peripheral arterial disease. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2001. 33(9):1415-22.
11. Hiatt WR, Regensteiner JG, Creager MA, Hirsch AT, Cooke JP, Olin JW, Gorbunov GN, Isner J, Lukjanov YV, Tsitsiashvili MS, Zabelskaya TF, Amato A. Propionyl-L-carnitine improves exercise performance and functional status in patients with claudication. Am J Med. 110(8):616-22.
12. Alvarez de Sotomayor M, Bueno R, Perez-Guerrero C, Herrera MD. Effect of L-carnitine and propionyl-L-carnitine on endothelial function of small mesenteric arteries from SHR. J Vasc Res. 2007. 44(5):354-64.
13. Hetenyi G Jr, Anderson PJ, Raman M, Ferrarotto C. Gluconeogenesis from glycine and serine in fasted normal and diabetic rats. Biochem J. 1988. 253(1):27-32.
14. ESN – Cr and Glycine
15. Smith WA, Fry AC, Tschume LC, Bloomer RJ. Effect of glycine propionyl-L-carnitine on aerobic and anaerobic exercise performance. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2008. 18(1):19-36.
16. Bloomer RJ, Smith WA, Fisher-Wellman KH. Glycine propionyl-L-carnitine increases plasma nitrate/nitrite in resistance trained men. JISSN. 2007. 4(22).
17. Tordi N, Colin E, Mourot L, Bouhaddi M, Regnard J, Laurant P. Effects of resuming endurance training on arterial stiffness and nitric oxide production during exercise in elite cyclists. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2006. 31(3):244-249.
18. Miyachi M, Lemitsu M, Okutsu M, Onodera S. Effects of endurance training on the size and blood flow of the arterial conductance vessels in humans. Acta Physiol Scand. 1998. 163(1):13-6.
19. Killewich LA, Tuvendorj D, Bahadorani J, Hunter GC, Wolfe RR. Amino acids stimulate leg muscle protein synthesis in peripheral arterial disease. J Vasc Surg. 2007. 45(3):554-559.
20. Adams MR, Forsyth CJ, Jessup W, Robinson J, Celemajer DS. Oral arginine inhibits platelet aggregation but does not enhance endothelium-dependent dilation in healthy young men. J Amer Col Cardiology. 1995; 26(4):1054-61.
21. Stechmiller JK, Langkamp-Henken B, Childress B, Herrlinger-Garcia KA, et al. Arginine supplementation does not enhance serum nitric oxide levels in elderly nursing home residents with pressure ulcers. Biol Res Nurs. 2005. 6(4):289-299.
22. Bode-Boger SM, Boger RH, Galland A, Tsikas D, Frolich J. L-arginine-induced vasodilation in healthy humans: pharmokinetic-pharmacodynamic relationship. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1998. 46(5):489-497.
23. Robinson TM, Sewell DA, Greenhaff PL. L-arginine ingestion after rest and exercise: effects on glucose disposal. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2003. 35:1309-1315.
24. Boger RH, Bode-Boger SM, Thiele W et al. Restoring vascular nitric oxide formation by L-arginine improves the symptoms of intermittent claudication in patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease. J Am Coll Cardiology. 1998. 32:1336-44.
25. Steinberg HO, Bretchel G, Johnson A, Fineberg N, Baron AD. Insulin-mediated skeletal muscle vasodilation is nitric oxide dependent. A novel action of insulin to increase nitric oxide release. Clin invest. 1994. 94(3):1172-1179.
26. Cleland SJ, Petrie JR, Ueda S, Elliot HL, Connell JMC. Hypertension. 1999. 33:554-558.
27. Stephens FB, Constantin-Teodosiu D, Laithwaite D, Simpson EJ, Greenhaff PL. Insulin stimulates L-carnitine accumulation in human skeletal muscle. FASEB J. 206. 20(2):377-379.
What does the research show about GPLC?
In a study conducted by Smith et al. [15], led by Dr. Richard Bloomer (University of Memphis), a group of untrained men and women were randomly assigned to one of three treatments: a placebo, 1.5 grams of GPLC or 4.5 grams of GPLC. The subjects ingested the treatments for eight weeks in combination with a cycling endurance program. By obtaining test values prior to and following the eight weeks of training, Smith et al. found a significant decrease in oxidative stress from both groups that were taking GPLC versus the placebo. In other words, GPLC lessened the damage commonly experienced with exercise; this helps with the recovery aspect of training. In addition, both GPLC groups experienced substantial increases in anaerobic threshold. This means that GPLC may allow you to train at high intensities for a longer amount of time without the detrimental interference of lactic acid accumulation setting in.
In another recent study conducted by Bloomer et al. [16], administration of GPLC to resistance trained men demonstrated nitric oxide boosting effects. The enhanced blood flow as a result of an increase nitric oxide levels is advantageous for both aerobic and anaerobic athletes. For those who partake in endurance sports (i.e. marathons, long-distance rowing, cross country skiing), an optimized blood flow may improve exercise performance. [17, 18] For individuals dedicated to resistance training (i.e. bodybuilders, athletes in training) an enhanced blood flow from increased nitric oxide leads to increased protein synthesis from enhanced amino acid delivery to recovering muscles. [19]
Vasodilation occurs naturally under certain conditions in the body such as: a threat to oxygen levels in which the need for oxygen increases or oxygen availability becomes insufficient, muscular work demands intensifying, increases in body temperature, increase oxidative metabolism in which concentrations of carbon dioxide increase, and decreases in pH commonly associated with lactic acid accumulation. As exercise intensity and duration increases; vasodilation becomes a necessity. If vasodilation capacity becomes hindered, then exercise intensity/duration becomes compromised as a result of reduced blood flow. [1] Therefore, by inducing nitric oxide release you are optimizing the oxygen and nutrient delivery system to working muscles not only during but after workouts which is ideal for recovery.
The myths about arginine
Interesting to note for consumers of marketed vasodilators is the fallacy of claims for argentine as a nitric oxide booster. While arginine, a conditionally essential amino acid, is a precursor for nitric oxide; research has failed to demonstrate improvements in vascularity from oral supplementation. [20, 21] As a matter of fact the only way arginine can effectively induce a vasodilation effect is with intrafusion [22], which is highly impractical along with high oral doses likely to cause gastric distress [23]. Furthermore, arginine alpha-ketoglutarate is commonly touted as a potent nitric oxide level enhancer. This erroneously proclaimed ingredient, however, does not have the research to back such claims either. [24]
More support for GPLC
Not only is GPLC’s affinity for nitric oxide of benefit for athletes but also for individuals who may develop insulin resistance with oncoming of age. Insulin is a modulator of nitric oxide synthesis and release, and therefore, a remarked regulator of vasodilation. [25] The relationship between insulin and nitric oxide has been made fairly apparent through research. The more sensitive you are to insulin, the more enhanced your insulin mediated vasodilation will be. [26] Therefore, in the case of insulin resistance, such as with diabetes or aging, insulin’s ability to modulate nitric oxide lessens. When nitric oxide lessens, the potential for vasodilation diminishes, making one more susceptible to hypertension since blood can’t flow as freely.
GPLC is the only form of carnitine to show direct increases in nitric oxide with or without carbohydrate intake (which promotes additional insulin-mediated vasodilation and carnitine retention [25, 27]) superior to alternative forms of carnitine. As research continues to uncover more advantageous effects of GPLC, its genuine efficacy as an ergogenic aid and aid of various medical conditions will surface with proclamation in the supplement industry.
Thus it seems that since there is only data showing that GPLC positively impacts nitric oxide production (thus the delivery of nutrients to your muscles) and studies support its use as an ergogenic aid (positive sports supplement), this product should be a no-brainer in terms of being part of one’s armament for athletic and nutritional success.
Supplement Facts
Serving Size 4 scoops (2g)
Servings Per Container
Amount Per Serving
Glycine Propionyl-L-Carnitine 2000mg †
† Daily Value not established
Directions: As a dietary supplement, take 4 scoops twice daily
References
1. Jacobs paper
2. Kraemer WJ, Volek SJ, Dunn-Lewis C. L-carnitine supplementation: influence upon physiological function. Curr Sports Med Rep. 2008. 7(4):218-23.
3. Gorostiaga EM, Maurer CA, Eclache JP. Decrease in respiratory quotient during exercise following L-carnitine supplementation. Int J Sports Med. 1989. 10(3):169-74.
4. Evans JD, Jacobs TF, Evans EW. Role of acetyl-L-carnitine in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Ann Pharmacother. 2008. 42(11):1686-91.
5. Sima AA, Calvani M, Mehra M, Amato A, Acetyl-L-Carnitine Study Group. Acetyl-L-carnitine improves pain, nerve regeneration and vibratory perception in patients with chronic diabetic neuropathy: an analysis of two randomized placebo-controlled trials. Diabetes Care. 2005. 28(1):89-94.
6. Epis R, Marcello E, Gardoni F, Longhi A, Calvani M, Iannuccelli M, Cattabeni F, Canonico PL, Di Luca M. Modulatory effect of acetyl-l-carnitine on amyloid precursor protein metabolism in hippocampal neurons. Eur J Pharmacol. 2008. 597(1-3):51-6.
7. Hudson S, Tabet N. Acetyl-L-carnitine for dementia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2003. 2:CD003158.
8. Ferrari R and De Giuli F. The propionyl-L-carnitine hypothesis: an alternative approach to treating heart failure. J Card Fail. 1997. 3(3): 217-24.
9. Ferrari R, Merli E, Cicchitelli G, Mele D, Fucili A, Ceconi C. Therapeutic effects of L-carnitine and propionyl-L-carnitine on cardiovascular diseases: a review. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2004. 1033:79-91.
10. Barker GA, Green S, Askew CD, Green AA, Walker PJ. Effect of propionyl-L-carnitine on exercise performance in peripheral arterial disease. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2001. 33(9):1415-22.
11. Hiatt WR, Regensteiner JG, Creager MA, Hirsch AT, Cooke JP, Olin JW, Gorbunov GN, Isner J, Lukjanov YV, Tsitsiashvili MS, Zabelskaya TF, Amato A. Propionyl-L-carnitine improves exercise performance and functional status in patients with claudication. Am J Med. 110(8):616-22.
12. Alvarez de Sotomayor M, Bueno R, Perez-Guerrero C, Herrera MD. Effect of L-carnitine and propionyl-L-carnitine on endothelial function of small mesenteric arteries from SHR. J Vasc Res. 2007. 44(5):354-64.
13. Hetenyi G Jr, Anderson PJ, Raman M, Ferrarotto C. Gluconeogenesis from glycine and serine in fasted normal and diabetic rats. Biochem J. 1988. 253(1):27-32.
14. ESN – Cr and Glycine
15. Smith WA, Fry AC, Tschume LC, Bloomer RJ. Effect of glycine propionyl-L-carnitine on aerobic and anaerobic exercise performance. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2008. 18(1):19-36.
16. Bloomer RJ, Smith WA, Fisher-Wellman KH. Glycine propionyl-L-carnitine increases plasma nitrate/nitrite in resistance trained men. JISSN. 2007. 4(22).
17. Tordi N, Colin E, Mourot L, Bouhaddi M, Regnard J, Laurant P. Effects of resuming endurance training on arterial stiffness and nitric oxide production during exercise in elite cyclists. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2006. 31(3):244-249.
18. Miyachi M, Lemitsu M, Okutsu M, Onodera S. Effects of endurance training on the size and blood flow of the arterial conductance vessels in humans. Acta Physiol Scand. 1998. 163(1):13-6.
19. Killewich LA, Tuvendorj D, Bahadorani J, Hunter GC, Wolfe RR. Amino acids stimulate leg muscle protein synthesis in peripheral arterial disease. J Vasc Surg. 2007. 45(3):554-559.
20. Adams MR, Forsyth CJ, Jessup W, Robinson J, Celemajer DS. Oral arginine inhibits platelet aggregation but does not enhance endothelium-dependent dilation in healthy young men. J Amer Col Cardiology. 1995; 26(4):1054-61.
21. Stechmiller JK, Langkamp-Henken B, Childress B, Herrlinger-Garcia KA, et al. Arginine supplementation does not enhance serum nitric oxide levels in elderly nursing home residents with pressure ulcers. Biol Res Nurs. 2005. 6(4):289-299.
22. Bode-Boger SM, Boger RH, Galland A, Tsikas D, Frolich J. L-arginine-induced vasodilation in healthy humans: pharmokinetic-pharmacodynamic relationship. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1998. 46(5):489-497.
23. Robinson TM, Sewell DA, Greenhaff PL. L-arginine ingestion after rest and exercise: effects on glucose disposal. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2003. 35:1309-1315.
24. Boger RH, Bode-Boger SM, Thiele W et al. Restoring vascular nitric oxide formation by L-arginine improves the symptoms of intermittent claudication in patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease. J Am Coll Cardiology. 1998. 32:1336-44.
25. Steinberg HO, Bretchel G, Johnson A, Fineberg N, Baron AD. Insulin-mediated skeletal muscle vasodilation is nitric oxide dependent. A novel action of insulin to increase nitric oxide release. Clin invest. 1994. 94(3):1172-1179.
26. Cleland SJ, Petrie JR, Ueda S, Elliot HL, Connell JMC. Hypertension. 1999. 33:554-558.
27. Stephens FB, Constantin-Teodosiu D, Laithwaite D, Simpson EJ, Greenhaff PL. Insulin stimulates L-carnitine accumulation in human skeletal muscle. FASEB J. 206. 20(2):377-379.