L-carnitine helps convert fat to energy. Although the body produces this nutrient from amino acids, certain people benefit from supplements, including the liquid form available in 16 ounce bottles. These individuals may have a health condition that depletes carnitine, or their bodies cannot manufacture enough or move it into tissues effectively. Some supplement manufacturers promote carnitine as beneficial for weight loss and fat metabolism. Consult a qualified health care provider before taking weight loss supplements.
Benefits
As a supplement, carnitine is beneficial when taken along with conventional treatment for stable angina, and also may be helpful for people with congestive heart failure, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Carnitine can reduce symptoms of intermittent claudication, a disorder of the blood vessels in the legs that causes leg tiredness and pain. It may be useful for individuals with an overactive thyroid as well.
Theories/Speculation
Carnitine supplements are theorized to help with weight loss because of this nutrient's role in energy production. It moves long-chain fatty acids into cell mitochondria where they are burned for fuel, and also moves toxins out of cells so these substances do not accumulate, the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health says. Higher concentrations of carnitine develop in skeletal and cardiac muscle and other tissues that use fatty acids as a primary energy source.
Potential
L-carnitine supplement labels may say the substance promotes efficient fat burning for people wanting to lose weight. The manufacturer also may list benefits for exercising, including optimum fat burning for fuel, delaying fatigue and improving recovery time.
Expert Insight
Although L-carnitine is promoted for improving exercise performance, no evidence indicates it works except for reducing fatigue, cautions the University of Maryland Medical Center. In addition, no evidence indicates it is effective for weight loss, although some research suggests it decreases fat mass and increases muscle mass, the medical center reports.
Usage
Although evidence is lacking for its effectiveness, if you'd like to try liquid L-carnitine for weight loss, the substance is well-tolerated and generally safe, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. You can buy a 16 ounce bottle at online retail shops or in stores selling natural supplements. High doses can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and a fishy body odor.
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