L-Carnitine is an amino acid normally produced by your body and involved in the metabolism of fatty acids and clearance of cellular waste. Supplementation is not normally needed in healthy individuals. If you metabolism or circulation is impaired you may not be able to produce or transport sufficient amounts to your cells. L-Carntine is generally safe with only a few dangers of large doses and medical interactions.
About L-Carnitine
L-Carnitine is responsible for transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria to be turned into energy and removing metabolic waste. L-Carnitine is found in the diet in meat but considered non-essential in healthy individuals. Supplementation with L-carnitine may be beneficial in chest pain, heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. No large, well-controlled study has demonstrated that L-carnitine is effective in improving exercise performance or weight loss in healthy individuals.
Safety
L-Carnitine is present naturally in everyone's body and is unlikely to have any effects when taken in moderate amounts. At large doses exceeding 3 g per day, L-carnitine may cause nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea and a fishy body odor. People with vascular disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, diabetes and kidney disease should consult with their healthcare provider before supplementing with L-carnitine.
Interactions with Medications
L-Carnitine is not known to directly interfere with the effectiveness of any medication. Chronic administration of antibiotics, anticonvulsants, isoretinoin, AZT, a medication used to treat AIDS, or other medications may deplete L-carnitine from the body. Supplemental L-carnitine may improve side effects of these medications but should only be done under the supervision of your healthcare provider.
Supplementation Guidelines
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends supplementing with acetyl-L-carnitine, as it is best absorbed and able to cross the blood-brain barrier. Supplement with 1 to 3 g per day based on your body weight and needs. It is also important to eat a healthy diet including L-carnitine rich foods including meat, lamb, fish, chicken, milk and other dairy products, whole grains and vegetables.
Member Comments