L Carnitine Information

L-carnitine has been linked to numerous health benefits in recent years. These benefits range from sports performance to weight and fat loss. While it seems promising, more research needs to be done.

Function

• L-carnitine is an amino acid that is synthesized by the liver from two separate amino acids, lysine and Methonine. The vast majority, 98 percent, of all carnitine is located in the skeletal muscle tissue. L-carnitine shuttles long-chain fatty acids to the mitochondrial membrane to be burned as energy.

Sources

• L-carnitine can be obtained by a red meat, avocados and dairy, such as milk and cheese. Supplemental forms contain higher amounts of L-carnitine. These supplements can be bought in tablets, capsules and powder.

Energy Production

• L-carnitine boosts energy by burning triglycerides and sparing glycogen for harder exertion. Fat is usually untapped and can provide a perfect fuel source during low to moderate exercise or activities. Without L-carnitine, fatty acids would have trouble reaching the mitochondrial membrane.

Research

• Research has been inconclusive when determining L-carnitine's supplemental benefits. J.P. Krabbe, in 1996, concluded that supplemental L-carnitine is uselessas extra L-carnitine is excreted. M.H. Williams reported that L-carnitine was useless as an ergogentic supplement. However, many supplemental users report beneficial effects.

Health Risks

• L-carnitine supplements are sold over-the-counter. At 3g or more, L-carnitine may vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. More severe health risks include seizures in consumers with a seizure disorder. Muscle weakness may be present in uremic patients.

Considerations

• Always check with your health care provider before starting any supplementation. Although, your body does use L-carnitine to burn fat, research is inconclusive on its effectiveness.