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What Are the Benefits of L-Carnitine?

L-carnitine is a substance that the human kidneys and liver produce. Its function is to help the body use fat stores as energy, and it also helps transport toxic substances out of those organs. Most people make enough L-carnitine and don't need a supplement, but in some cases, a person's body isn't producing enough. Symptoms of a deficiency include fatigue, weakness and confusion. It is an essential nutrient, so persons deficient in L-carnitine often take a supplement or try to get it from the foods they eat. In addition to helping those who are deficient, L- carnitine supplements can also provide other benefits.

  1. Mental Function

    • L-carnitine has been shown to improve brain function. This can improve memory, improve motor function and slow the progression of diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia. It has also been shown to help with other disorders that have a cognitive basis, such as depression and alcoholism. If a person is suffering from a mild or early version of such disorders, L-carnitine supplement can help them improve, and if these disorders run in a family, it can help prevent their onset.

    Heart and Muscle Problems

    • L-carnitine is an essential nutrient for proper heart health and function. A deficiency can cause a heart disorder known as cardiomyopathy. Also, in the event of a heart attack, L-carnitine helps prevent against damage to the heart. Also, L-carnitine can help with the recovery from a heart attack by lowering the risk of further complications such as chest pain and heart failure.

      L-carnitine is instrumental in the prevention and treatment of muscular atrophy, a degenerative muscular condition that results from disease. Those suffering degenerative diseases such as cancer and AIDS benefit greatly from a daily dose of L-carnitine.

    Male Sexual Dysfunction

    • Men who have a low sperm count or erectile dysfunction (ED) can be helped with an L-carnitine supplement. L-carnitine can help ED when combined with some prescription medications. In addition to improving the sperm count, L-carnitine can also help improve the speed and mobility of the sperm. Those with infertility issues could benefit from a daily supplement of L-carnitine.

    Other Benefits

    • People who suffer from hyperthyroid (an overactive thyroid gland) have found some relief from their symptoms from L-carnitine, including anxiousness, nervousness, insomnia and a racing heart.

      L-carnitine can also help with patients who receive dialysis. This process can take away essential amino acids, which can cause fatigue and weakness. Taking an L- carnitine supplement can alleviate those symptoms.

    How to Take L-Carnitine

    • L-carnitine can be found in capsule form at most health food stores and online retailers. The average person should take between 20 and 200mg per day (vegetarians and vegans will need more). Speak with a doctor about the amount that could benefit you most.

      L-carnitine is also available in the foods we eat. Foods with high levels of L- carnitine include red meat, pork, bacon and tempeh. Smaller amounts can be found in chicken, cod, whole milk and avocados.

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