Your liver and kidneys naturally produce carnitine, a nutrient that helps convert body fat into energy. Most people produce all the carnitine they need to keep the body functioning properly. Some people with certain medical conditions have low levels of carnitine in the body and may benefit from supplementation with L-carnitine. It is important to remember that you should not self-treat any types of medical conditions. Discuss any supplementation with your doctor.
Cardiovascular
The most supported use of L-carnitine is in the treatment of angina, or chest pain. When used in conjunction with traditional medications, L-carnitine supplementation may reduce the symptoms of angina and improve the ability of people with angina to exercise. A study published in the "Drugs Under Experimental and Clinical Research" journal in 1992 found that L-carnitine supplementation may decrease the chance of experiencing a recurrent heart attack in those who had previously experienced a myocardial infarction. L-carnitine supplementation also significantly lowered mortality rates.
Neurological
When hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar -- which is a complication of the metabolic disorder diabetes -- damages the nerve cells, the condition is referred to as diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy can cause tingling, numbness and pain in the body, especially in the arms, legs and feet. If left untreated, diabetic neuropathy can lead to permanent nerve damage. A preliminary study published in the "Alternative Medicine Review" in 2006 found that supplementation with L-carnitine may help reduce abnormal sensations and pain associated with diabetic neuropathy. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that L-carnitine may also stimulate regeneration of the nerves, although more research is needed before any conclusive statements can be made.
Sexual Function
L-carnitine supplementation may increase the sperm count and motility in men, which can increase fertility. Supplementation with L-carnitine may also help improve erectile dysfunction and sexual function in men. A study published in the "British Journal of Urology International" in 2001 reported that supplementation with L-carnitine may help improve the symptoms of Peyronie's disease, which is characterized by a curvature of the penis that leads to pain during intercourse. Supplementation with L-carnitine worked better than the pain medication tamoxifen at reducing pain and minimizing curvature.
Hyperthyroidism
A study published in the "Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism" in 2001 found that supplementation with L-carnitine may help prevent or reduce certain symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as nervousness, increased heart rate, tremors and insomnia, and help normalize body temperature, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although this study showed promising results, larger studies are needed before any definitive statements can be made about the use of L-carnitine for hyperthyroidism treatment.
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