L-carnitine, or carnitine, is a nutrient present in most cells of the body that plays a crucial role in cellular energy production by transporting fatty acids into cells to be burned for energy. According to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, L-carnitine is produced in the liver and kidneys and can be found in higher concentrations in active body cells and tissues, such as skeletal muscles, the heart and the brain. Certain medical conditions and/or medications may cause a deficiency of carnitine, in which case supplementation may be necessary. Talk to your doctor before taking L-carnitine.
L-carnitine Deficiency
Primary carnitine deficiency is an inherited disorder which generally produces symptoms in children by 5 years of age. According to NIH, symptoms of this disease include muscle weakness, low blood sugar and an enlarged heart. Secondary carnitine deficiencies can occur, being secondary to health conditions such as chronic renal failure. As well, long term use of some antibiotics may decrease carnitine levels, causing deficiencies.
Uses
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMM, L-carnitine helps to reduce oxidative stress and has been either used or proposed to be used to treat a variety of health conditions as an adjunct therapy, meaning it is used in addition to other medical treatments. Conditions treated with carnitine include: angina, heart failure, Alzheimer's disease, kidney disease, male Infertility, chronic fatigue syndrome and hyperthyroidism. L-carnitine has also been marketed as both a weight loss product and an athletic endurance enhancing product, although there is a lack of scientific research backing up those claims. Talk to your doctor before taking L-carnitine.
Sources
L-carnitine is available over the counter in oral tablets, and can be found where nutritional supplements are sold. D-carnitine supplements differ from L-carnitine and should not be substituted as they may produce side effects. According to UMM, dietary sources of carnitine include red meat, dairy, fish, poultry, asparagus, avocados and peanut butter. In some instances, a physician may prescribe L-carnitine in either oral or intravenous form.
Side Effects
Taking higher levels of L-carnitine is associated with a number of side effects. For adults taking more than 3 grams per day, side effects may include rash, increased appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping and a fishy body odor. According to NIH, less common side effects might include muscle weakness and seizures in people with seizure disorders.
Considerations
L-carnitine may interact with certain medications, including AZT, valproic acid, Isotretinoin or Accutane and Doxorubicin, according to UMM. Adverse effect may also be experienced when taking L-carnitine in individuals with diabetes, kidney disease, cirrhosis of the liver and hypertension. Consult your health care provider before taking L-carnitine.
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