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Carnosine

Carnosine

Aid Overall Health

Carnosine is a dipeptide. This is a molecule that that is made up of two amino acids that are joined together by what is called a peptide bond.  It is found in great concentration inside brain and muscle tissue, though it is also found in many vital organs.  Some studies suggest that this dipeptide, naturally and in supplemental form , can have beneficial effects on the human body. 

Carnosine has antioxidant effects when used given in high dosages.  The primary effects are as eye treatment, though it has also been studied to have positive effects for memory and mental clarity.  The mental effects are due to carnosine’s role as a neurotransmitter.  In addition to its antioxidant properties, it has been called a rejuvenating and anti-aging supplement. 

The enzyme carnosine synthetase is what creates this molecule.  Through processes of glycosylation of proteins, as well as free radical damage, the dipeptide has been shown to retard lipid peroxidation and stabilize cell membranes.  What are some of the beneficial effects?

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Summary

Carnosine Benefits By nature, glycation results in accelerated aging, diabetes symptoms and other complications.  Carnosine is believed to be an anti-glycation agent, meaning it has potential as anti-aging treatment.  These properties suggest carnosine may also be beneficial as autism trea... more

Carnosine Benefits

By nature, glycation results in accelerated aging, diabetes symptoms and other complications.  Carnosine is believed to be an anti-glycation agent, meaning it has potential as anti-aging treatment.  These properties suggest carnosine may also be beneficial as autism treatment. 

Carnosine studies  performed at Autism and Epilepsy Specialty Services in Lake Bluff, Illinois found that the administering of carnosine supplements to over thirty children over a period of eight weeks was significant.  The children showed improvement in vocabulary and in memory-related skills. 

Carnosine was shown to help with diabetic nephropathy, a condition caused partly by genetics.  Carnosine inhibits the production of fibronectin and collagen type VI in podocytes, as well as the production of TGF-beta in mesangial cells.  It has a protective effect against conditions related to high glucose levels on renal cells.

Despite carnosine’s promise as a mental enhancer, physical benefits seem even more promising.  Carnosine also works as an antioxidant for various vision disorders, including both near and far sighted vision.  Using these supplements may prevent the need for cataracts, as it reduces what is called cardiac toxicity.  Carnosine offers some effective treatment against Alzheimer’s disease and certain inflammatory conditions.

Carnosine has been used by athletes not only as an anti-aging supplement but also as a performance enhancement herbal supplement.  Because carnosine can assist in blocking lactic acid accumulation, it can reduce exercise-related pains.  Lactic acid is what causes pain in muscles. 

Carnosine Dosage Recommendations

Carnosine is found in meat and poultry foods, and thus vegetarians could suffer the effects of carnosine deficiency (or protein deficiency) if it is not taken in supplemental form.  Additional dosage of carnosine, besides natural sources, can also prove beneficial. 

The most common dosage is in capsules of 500 milligrams.  However, some doctors and herbal specialists suggest taking carnosine supplements (or L-carnosine) of 200 milligram dosages a couple of times a day.  It is best to take the dosage with a hearty breakfast.  If you are seeking pain relief, then take this supplement before and after exercise sessions. 

Animal as well as human research suggests that patients taking half a capsule’s worth of carnosine fair better than patients who take the full 500 milligrams.  Cancer patients that “overdosed” on the supplement occasionally showed adverse or even reverse effects.  Carnosine can also be combined with other herbs and nutrients including Ashwagandha, ginkgo biloba , reishi  and vinpocetine and sold as a mental and physical health supplement. 

Carnosine Side Effects

There are no major side effects associated with carnosine, although some studies have reported that over-dosage can lead to reverse effects.  When used at the ideal dosage (and especially half of a 500 mg capsule) beneficial effects are noted.  Studies have suggested that children taking these supplements may experience hyperactivity; although, it has not been determined whether this is merely a decrease in autistic related behavior.  (Children are naturally excitable!)

Some individuals have stated that taking carnosine can result in rash, runny rose, or poor sleep quality.  For the best results talk to a doctor about carnosine to find out about possible interactions.  As far as side effects directly resulting from the supplement, there are no known risks. 

If you are suffering from pain, high blood pressure, cancer, aging symptoms, cataracts, eye disorders or decreased memory, this supplement may be able to help you.  No prescription is needed because this is a supplement, and not an FDA-recognized drug.  To locate various forms of carnosine available just use the free supplement finder  now!

Other

  • Side Effects
  • Other Names
  • Uses
Skin Rash
Runny Nose
Poor Sleep Quality
B-alanyl-L-histidine, B-alanyl histidine, Beta-alanyl-L-histidine, Carnosina, L-carnosine, N-Acetyl-Carnosine, N-Acetyl-L-Carnosine
Alzheimer's
Anti-Aging
Anti-inflammatory
Cataracts
Eye Issues
Memory
Mental Lucidity
Muscle Pain
Performance Enhancement