Alpha GPC and Huperzine A are two supplements that provide mental clarity and increase your focus for a longer duration. They also improve your mental productivity and learning ability.
But what are Alpha GPC and Huperzine A? We’ll explore these two supplements in detail, including their differences and similarities.
What is Alpha GPC?
Alpha GPC, aGPC, or alpha-glycerophosphocholine is a chemical released from soy and other plants when the fatty acid breaks down. It is used as prescription medicine in the European market for treating diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. But in the US, it is only available as a supplement.
This supplement is said to help enhance cognitive function and learning ability. Research suggests that alpha GPC can increase the release of a chemical messenger in your brain called acetylcholine. Hence, this helps to improve your memory and learning [1].
Alpha GPC is also utilized by some athletes. According to studies, it may increase endurance performance and stimulate growth hormone secretion [1].
We’ll explore in depth the benefits of alpha GPC in the next section.
Benefits of Alpha GPC
Here are some possible benefits of alpha GPC.
1. Improves Athletic Performance
According to research, alpha GPC supplements help elevate lower body strength workout levels. It also improves overall speed and power [2, 3].
2. Enhances Memory
Research studies suggest that it can help improve memory. Alpha GPC supplements may help reduce memory impairments and improves your attention on regular tasks [4].
3. Treats Alzheimer’s Diseases
Research shows that taking alpha GPC for 3-6 months regularly can help improve thinking skills and brain-related symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients [5].
In a European country, alpha GPC has been given as a prescribed medicine for this condition for decades.
4. Helps with Dementia
Dementia is caused by insufficient blood flow to the brain. Consuming Alpha GPC regularly can help improve symptoms like thinking ability, behavior, and mood in patients with dementia.
Dementia is a broader term compared to Alzheimer’s. It is a general term referring to the decline in mental ability to the point it interferes with your daily life. Alzheimer’s is a specific brain-related disease and is the most common cause of dementia.
What is Huperzine A?
Huperzine A acquired from Chinese Club Moss is a natural plant-based neuroprotectant, meaning it helps to protect and preserve the function of your brain.
In this sense, it may improve memory and boost your overall brain function. It could also help with medical conditions like depression and schizophrenia.
As per research, some common dosages of this supplement include the following:-
- 50–200 mcg twice a day for treating Alzheimer’s
- 100 mcg twice daily to improve memory
- 30 mcg twice daily for dementia
Let’s dive a little deeper into the benefits of Huperzine A!
Benefits of Huperzine A
Huperzine A offers many benefits for the body and the brain. They are as follows:-
1. Neuroprotectant
Being neuroprotectant is the most important property of Huperzine A. It protects the brain from oxidative damage and prevents free radical damage. This is one of the root causes of diseases like Alzheimer’s and other neurological disorders.
Huperzine A works as an antioxidant and improves the activity of other brain antioxidants. Research shows that it positively affects oxidative balance and is safe and effective.
2. Boosts Memory
Research suggests that Huperzine A can help in improving memory and learning ability.
It improves the brain’s level of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that enhances cognition and memory. The supplement helps in preventing the enzymes (AChE) from breaking acetylcholine.
It has also been shown to help with memory in elderly people with either non-severe forgetfulness or dementia [5].
3. Protects Against Glutamate Toxicity
Glutamate is a powerful excitatory neurotransmitter (chemical messenger in the brain) that sends signals between nerve cells. It helps to improve learning ability and memory. But it becomes toxic when the glutamate concentrations get too high. It may lead to cell damage or death.
According to research, Huperzine A works as an antagonist to glutamate receptors in the brain. It prevents neurons from being overactivated by glutamate and further normalizes glutamate levels. It is also used to treat neurodegeneration [6].
4. Helps with Depression
Research suggests that Huperzine A can work as an antidepressant and help treat depressive disorder. Taking the supplement daily can improve cognitive function and quality of life.
Huperzine A and Anxiety: Does it Worsen Anxiety?
The higher dose of Huperzine A may increase your acetylcholine levels and may further lead to anxiety. It can also result in a depressed mood or increase your mood swings. Therefore, it is important to consume supplements in moderation and as prescribed by the manufacturer.
It is best to consult your physician before starting any supplement.
Which is Better, Huperzine A or Alpha GPC?
Both Huperzine-A and Alpha-GPC are antioxidants and protect your brain from glutamate toxicity. They enhance dopamine levels which are vital for regulating blood flow, motivation and reward.
Higher dopamine levels will lead to better cognitive performance. And it also helps in treating several mental conditions like depression and mood swings.
There are currently no high-quality studies comparing the benefits and effects of Huperzine A and alpha GPC. Hence, it’s best to check with your doctor to understand which supplement is better for you.
Side Effects of Huperzine A and Alpha GPC
Huperzine A and Alpha GPC are safe to consume if taken for less than 6 months. However, some minor side effects include the following:-
Huperzine A: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, sweating, blurred vision, and dry mouth.
Alpha GPC: Headache, dizziness, heartburn, and skin rash.
Bottomline: Huperzine A vs Alpha GPC
Huperzine A and Alpha GPC are natural supplements. They act as an antioxidant and neuroprotectants. Decades of research suggest that they help in enhancing memory and overall cognition.
The supplements can also relieve cognitive impairment symptoms, help with depressive disorders, treat neurodegenerative diseases, and protect the brain from free radicals oxidative damage.
Alpha GPC and Huperzine A are safe to consume if taken in moderation. As of yet, there isn’t any conclusive research that shows one trumps the other, so it’s best to check with your healthcare professional to see which is the better option for you.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your own healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References and Fact Checking
- Parker, A. G., Byars, A., Purpura, M., & Jäger, R. (2015). The effects of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, caffeine or placebo on markers of mood, cognitive function, power, speed, and agility. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12(Suppl 1), P41. https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-12-S1-P41
- Bellar D, LeBlanc NR, Campbell B. The effect of 6 days of alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine on isometric strength. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015 Nov 17;12:42. doi: 10.1186/s12970-015-0103-x. PMID: 26582972; PMCID: PMC4650143.
- Walsh, N. (2006). Huperzine A for Alzheimer’s Disease. Internal Medicine News, 39(17), 32. https://doi.org/10.1016/s1097-8690(06)74115-4
- Defina, P. A., Moser, R. S., Glenn, M., Lichtenstein, J. D., & Fellus, J. (2013). Alzheimer’s disease clinical and research update for health care practitioners. Journal of aging research, 2013, 207178. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/207178
- Ved, H. S., Koenig, M. L., Dave, J. R., & Doctor, B. P. (1997). Huperzine A, a potential therapeutic agent for dementia, reduces neuronal cell death caused by glutamate. Neuroreport, 8(4), 963–968. https://doi.org/10.1097/00001756-199703030-00029
- Kawamura T, Okubo T, Sato K, Fujita S, Goto K, Hamaoka T, Iemitsu M. Glycerophosphocholine enhances growth hormone secretion and fat oxidation in young adults. Nutrition. 2012 Nov-Dec;28(11-12):1122-6. doi: 10.1016/j.nut.2012.02.011. Epub 2012 Jun 5. PMID: 22673596.
