Product Details What is L-Carnosine? L-carnosine (β-alanyl-l-histidine) is an amino acid dipeptide derived from beta alanine and histidine. The body produces l-carnosine in the liver, with the highest concentrations located in skeletal muscle and brain tissues. The root word carn means flesh or meat and reflects carnosine’s prevalence in meat and absence from plants. Although the body can synthesize carnosine, studies show that vegans and vegetarians have lower carnosine levels than individuals that consume meat. The body doesn’t incorporate carnosine into proteins, which allows muscle tissues to store it in high concentrations. Potential Carnosine Benefits Carnosine as an Antioxidant Carnosine is a potent antioxidant with antiaging properties. It inhibits the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which occur when proteins or fats combine with sugar. AGEs can damage cells, impede normal cell functions, age cells prematurely, and make them more susceptible to damage. Carnosine can also impede the development of advanced lipoxidation end products (ALEs). ALEs contribute to the development and advancement of numerous illnesses linked to oxidative stress. Carnosine is also an effective heavy metal scavenger, as it can chelate metal ions. It protects DNA from cellular damage by decreasing oxidative stress and blocking the formation of free radicals, including reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Carnosine for Athletes Carnosine acts as an acid buffer, and the body can store it in high concentrations in muscle tissues. It accounts for up to 20% of type I and type II muscles’ buffering capacity. Increased carnosine levels also facilitate muscle function, reduce muscle fatigue, and improve physical performance. Some studies show carnosine helps improve endurance and increase muscle mass as well. Carnosine and Cognition L-Carnosine exerts some neuroprotective effects. It blocks and repairs the damage caused by AGEs within the brain. It also helps preserve mitochondrial functioning and protects against deleterious autophagic processes. While autophagy is a natural part of cellular degradation and recycling, too much contributes to and worsens numerous disease states. As an antioxidant, it scavenges free radicals that can cause oxidative damage to the brain. Carnosine supplements may also benefit cognition. One study found that individuals taking carnosine supplements performed executive function tasks better and made fewer mistakes than the placebo group. Potential Carnosine Side Effects Most individuals can take carnosine supplements without any side effects. Large doses may cause sleep disturbances, as carnosine can cause mild stimulatory effects. Carnosine may interact with medications that lower blood pressure. Individuals should consult with a physician before starting any new supplements. References https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4501114 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16804012 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20865290 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22327512/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1735411 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24137022/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23767955 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15872311/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1395289 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1735411 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17690198 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16868650 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17136505 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19276843 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20091069 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19131472 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19214556 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21659893 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19210788/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2213434416300780 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4211270/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3351915/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3894687/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31951767 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17916766 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18543335 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23099060 Tested by Accredited 3rd Party Labs PureBulk's supplements are tested by accredited third party labs in the USA to ensure their identity, purity and potency. To receive a copy of these test results or any other PureBulk supplement please fill out the COA request form found here. *NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
