L-Carnitine, also called carnitine, is a compound made in the liver that aids the conversion of fat into energy. You may become deficient in this nutrient if your body is unable to make enough of it or is unable to deliver it to your tissues. According to the National Institutes of Health, there is no established recommended daily intake for this nutrient at this time. You should consult your doctor before taking this supplement to see if it is right for you.
Alzheimer's Disease
L-carnitine may play a beneficial role in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, a condition characterized by memory loss, decreased mobility, and behavioral changes. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, research has suggested that L-carnitine may help slow the progression of Alzheimer's, enhance memory, and alleviate depression symptoms. Research has been mixed and more studies are required to establish a clear benefit or association. If you have Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia, you should take L-carnitine only under the approval and supervision of your doctor.
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Reduced blood flow to your legs is referred to as peripheral vascular disease, or PVD. This condition can occur when plaques build up in your arteries and block blood flow to your legs. The result is a feeling of cramping in your legs while you exercise or walk, and this is called intermittent claudication. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, carnitine may help decrease these pain symptoms and help people with intermittent claudication walk for farther distances. However, research studies have only focused on a form of L-carnitine called propionyl-L-carnitine, and it is unknown if L-carnitine may have the same benefit. More research is required.
Cancer
Carnitine may aid in alleviating the fatigue that occurs in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation for cancer treatment. According to the National Institutes of Health, people who undergo these treatments may be deficient in carnitine and may benefit from increasing the carnitine content in their bodies in order to improve feelings of low energy, low mood, and poor sleep quality. Most research in this area has focused on people who were initially deficient in carnitine. Consult your doctor to see if this nutrient can provide you with some benefit.
Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy occurs when your blood sugar levels become too high and cause damage to nerves in your body, including your arms, legs, and feet. Some research indicates that acetyl-L-carnitine may help decrease the pain of this condition and help to improve a normal feeling in the damaged nerves, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. More research in this area is required. You can consult your doctor about the benefit of a supplement. You can also increase your carnitine intake naturally by eating carnitine-rich foods. These include meat, fish, milk, and poultry.
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