Alpha GPC has gained a relatively impressive reputation in the nootropics niche with features like cognitive enhancer, neuroprotective agent, and ergogenic associated with its performance. Despite its promising potential, the limited research done on this compound leaves a lot to be desired. But we will share with you here what has been established as its main benefits and possible setbacks with regards to your mental and physical health. Check out our full Alpha GPC review.
Alpha GPC Review
Alpha GPC stands for Alpha-glycerophosphocholine – a mouthful of a name that should tell you that it has something to do with choline.
In fact, it is a choline compound found naturally in trace amounts in the body. [1]
Choline is an essential nutrient that is needed by the body for normal functioning and overall good health.
Among other things, choline is essential for mental and physical performance.
In this regard, Alpha GPC choline prompts the cholinergic system that takes care of cognitive aspects like memory recall and thinking. It is a preferred source of choline which acts as a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Acetylcholine is found widely throughout the brain and body and is responsible for many chemical messages that we send and receive.
And it is very well-known for learning as well as for muscle contraction, thus forming the brain-brawn link.
Alpha GPC supplement works fast and helps deliver choline to the brain and actually increases the production of acetylcholine. [2]
By providing your brain with more choline, it can convert that to acetylcholine and contribute to a host of downstream effects. Primarily, acetylcholine is utilized by the hippocampus to create memories.
Acetylcholine works in a variety of ways to support your working memory. It can also enhance your linguistic skills, your capacity to reason and use logic, as well as your creativity.
The same is also crucial for memory, coordination, and mobility.
Levels of this neurotransmitter naturally decline with age. To make sure that you have enough of this brain chemical available to meet the demands of your cognitive activity, you need to keep levels up.
While choline is present naturally in the body in some amounts, it can also be acquired through your diet.
Most choline-dense foods include:
- eggs
- beef liver
- grass-fed raw dairy
- nuts and legumes
- cruciferous veggies
That said, usually, the concentration of this nutrient in food sources is low, so many people decide to take it in the form of supplements.
So when a choline deficiency occurs, the same can be compensated through supplements such as alpha GPC.
When you do so, here are some of the fantastic benefits you can experience.
Alpha GPC Benefits
Here are the main benefits of supplementing Alpha GPC.
1. Alpha GPC Supplement Supports Memory
Research suggests that a diet fortified with choline can boost your memory and may even slow down memory loss that comes with age. [3]
People who have insufficient choline may face a hard time concentrating or may even exhibit ADHD symptoms.
Some research also indicates that supplementing with choline may improve your ability to grasp new learning concepts such as a language. [4]
Oral doses of alpha GPC have been shown to help brain and blood choline levels within 2 hours of consumption. [5]
This assists in the formation of acetylcholine, which is the first neurotransmitter to become affected in Alzheimer’s patients.
That is why the bulk of the include preventive measures for Alzheimer’s involve including nutrients that increase levels of acetylcholine in the diet.
In fact, in Europe, Alpha GPC is used medicinally, but the US labels it as a supplement by the FDA.
2. Alpha GPC Combats Fatigue
Alpha GPC nootropic may also help fight fatigue while it increases stamina. Stamina and mood are believed to be correlated to excess levels of acetylcholine in the brain and body. [1]
Another reason for improved stamina could be the increase in the natural human growth hormone or HGH that alpha GPC stimulates.
An elevated level of HGH is associated with higher levels of energy, longevity, and anti-aging effects.
Also, people who naturally have a higher level of HGH are likely to recover quicker and exhibit more energy along with feelings of wellbeing.
3. Alpha GPC Regulates Mood
Some research indicates that Alpha GPC works like a dopaminergic, meaning that it has a positive effect on your mood, incentive, and the sensation of feeling pleasure.
One such animal study looked into the effects that Alpha GPC had and concluded that it had a positive response to dopamine production. [6]
Just to be clear, dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps control the brain’s reward and pleasure centers. With an increase in dopamine levels, alpha GPC could potentially be useful as a treatment for cognitive issues like Parkinson’s, which are dopamine-related.
People who suffer from an HGH deficiency can show improvement in their perception of mood and energy when given HGH for 6 months.
So by using Alpha GPC to stimulate HGH production, you can also improve your mood.
That’s also one of the reasons people with depression supplement Alpha GPC.
4. Alpha GPC Pre Workout Benefits
Closely tied to boosting stamina is the idea of improved athletic performance.
With an increase in HGH levels, it becomes possible for the body to gain muscle in a short time. This gives athletes and gym-goers who want to increase levels of HGH in their bloodstream an ideal option.
Alpha GCP choline is also effective when it comes to increasing lower body force production after six days of supplementation. [7]
This is a convenient feature for speed and power athletes and is widely used by fitness gurus and enthusiasts to improve their performance.
That’s why Alpha GPC is also a popular pre-workout supplement.
Alpha GPC Side Effects
Alpha GPC is perhaps among the most well-tolerated and safest nootropics around.
In fact, unlike many others, it is safe to take for long-term use as well.
Side effects remain nominal, however, if the recommended dose is exceeded, then you may have some symptoms like:
- anxiety
- nervousness
- diarrhea
- upset stomach
- headaches.
The same symptoms may also present themselves in individuals who have a hypersensitivity to choline. A feeling of general malaise may ensue if a reaction takes place.
To be 100% sure, we’d suggest talking about supplementing Alpha GPC to your doctor.
Considerations Of Supplementing Alpha GPC
Alpha GPC should not be taken by anyone using anticholinergic drugs. A lot of antihistamines have powerful anticholinergic consequences, so please make sure to check all medications before starting any supplement.
Anyone having low blood pressure also needs to be careful when taking supplements that may interfere with their blood pressure readings.
Expectant mothers or those nursing should first consult with their physician before taking any supplement, not just alpha GPC.
Alpha GPC Dosage
Alpha GPC can be quite effective when taken on its own, but it may be even more potent when stacked with other cognitive enhancers.
The bulk powder is typically cheaper and more versatile as it allows you to measure your dose.
Capsules are pre-weighed, prepackaged, and more convenient for busy people who don’t have the time to measure powder every morning.
Alpha GPC is made up of about 40% choline. This means that if you take 1000 mg of alpha GPC, you get 400 mg of choline.
The expert opinion recommends starting low around 300 mg of Alpha GPC daily and working your way up slowly to 600 mg.
The range of tolerable dosage for adults can vary substantially. In terms of numbers, a cumulative dose ranging between 300 and 1,200 mg when divided into one to three doses is safe and efficient.
We recommend supplementing Alpha GPC on an empty stomach for better absorption.
When using alpha GPC choline in addressing symptoms of cognitive decline, almost all studies have used a dosage of 1,200 mg daily. This amount is typically divided into three doses of 400 mg each.
Research does not indicate how lower doses could benefit cognition, but the most consistently associated dose with benefits appears to be at 1,200 mg daily.
Since the proper dosage is dependent on many variables, it is recommended to consult with your doctor before beginning any new supplementation.
We haven’t tried it yet, but a popular stacking option is with piracetam. And by the way, when you stack alpha GPC with other nootropics, you should start below the minimum recommended dosage. Say you begin around 200-250 mg and then work your way up.
Alpha GPC Alternatives
If you want the similar benefits of improving focus, concentration, and energy, you can also consider some other cholinergic compounds.
Popular ones include:
Choline bitartrate
This is the salt form of choline. Bitartrate is an added chemical group to prevent the choline from going “off.” In this form, choline is stable and readily metabolized by the body.
Like alpha GPC, choline bitartrate also boosts acetylcholine. It is a basic constituent of lecithin and is found in many plants and animal organs.
Along with being a nootropic, choline bitartrate has anti-inflammatory potential that can benefit your heart health and is recommended for post-menopausal women.
Choline citrate
This is another choline compound; only it combines choline and citrate. In this combination, citrate activates the choline, which then energizes and alkalizes cells.
This compound can replenish the body’s stores of choline promptly and efficiently. This results in enhanced endurance and the efficient use of energy.
Another prominent function of choline citrate is increasing the body’s acceptance of magnesium. It is an ideal recommendation for those who may be suffering from a magnesium deficiency.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine
As a nootropic, Acetyl-l carnitine boosts brainpower and offers other benefits as well. It can enhance performance by burning fat and building muscles by taking your metabolism further.
And just like its alpha GPC counterpart, Acetyl-l-carnitine can also pass the blood-brain barrier making things easier for assimilation into the bloodstream and provide a steady supply to the brain.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha holds a historical significance in Ayurveda medicine as an antidepressant and adaptogen. As a nootropic it is accredited with neuronal regeneration, reducing stress and depression, and inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine.
It also boosts brainpower by enhancing GABA receptors and serotonin levels.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba hails from Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it has been used for several millennia. Medicinally, it has been used for treating asthma, coughs, swelling of hands, and feet and vascular disorders.
As a nootropic, it regulates neurotransmitters, increases dopamine levels, protects from brain cell degeneration, and increases cerebral circulation.
Vitamin B
B vitamins are essential for different functions, including optimal nervous system functioning. Among these, B6 is especially crucial for mood regulation and preventing mental fatigue.
It is needed by the brain to produce serotonin that helps you relax and uplifts your mood. Plus, it assists in hemoglobin production, which transports energy-boosting oxygen to the brain.
While all these are good options, alpha GPC is a preferred source of choline given its bioavailability.
It can easily cross the blood-brain-barrier, which allows it to take quick action in the brain and become readily absorbed into the bloodstream.
It also contains more choline by weight and will yield better results than those of other choline versions.
However, if you have choline sensitivity, you can choose from other nootropics to help enhance brainpower.
Alpha GPC Reviews
We checked what users of Alpha GPC nootropic say about it.
Here are a few reviews for you:
"I Stack this (300mg) with Oxiracetam (~500mg) and Noopept (20mg) and thé synergy is perfect ! I'm Web Developper ans this stack help me A LOT on learning/working phase."
"The most potent version of choline, and Nootropics Depot does a justice."
"There are good reviews, for me it just doesn't do anything. Good point for this, is that it's easy to swallow or use sublingually."
Where to Buy Alpha GPC?
If you decided to buy the Alpha GPC supplement, here are some great options available.
If you want to buy capsules or powder, then we recommend ordering Alpha GPC here >>
However, Alpha GPC is present in many of our favorite nootropic stacks as one of the compounds.
To really optimize your performance, we recommend stacking Alpha GPC with other effective compounds and nootropics.
That’s how you will get the most out of it.
In this case, we’d recommend checking Qualia Mind >>
If you want to order, click here for the lowest price. You can use discount code YOURINCEPTION for a 15% discount.
Qualia Mind is currently one of our favorite nootropic stacks on the market, one of the most advanced, and one that provides a whole range of other cognitive benefits. And of course, it contains Alpha GPC.
That’s why we recommend Qualia Mind instead of buying just Alpha GPC as an individual compound.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alpha GPC good for?
Alpha GPC is good for dementia, improving memory, combating fatigue, and regulating mood. It is a very effective nootropic that is considered safe, legal, and available online.
How much alpha GPC should you take?
You should take between 400 – 1200 mg of Alpha GPC per day for optimal dosage. Start with a lower dose and gradually increase it. Do not overdose to avoid adverse side effects.
How much choline is in Alpha GPC?
There is about 40% in Alpha GPC per weight. This is means that a 1000 mg Alpha GPC supplement contains around 400 mg of choline.
Is Alpha GPC a drug?
No, Alpha GPC is not a drug. It is a nootropic supplement used for improving your memory and overall cognitive performance.
Does Alpha GPC really work?
Yes, Alpha GPC really works and quickly delivers choline to your brain. This increases the production of acetylcholine, which increases the release of dopamine in your brain.
2 thoughts on “Alpha GPC Review: 4 Amazing Benefits, Side Effects & More”
I would like to know if you have discontinuation symptoms when stoping Alpha GPC!!
We believe you shouldn’t experience any symptoms after you stop taking Alpha GPC :)