L-Carnitine is an amino acid essential for the metabolism of fatty acids. During heart failure, your heart is unable to supply the rest of your body with adequate blood flow. Though not normally considered essential, L-carnitine may not be produced in sufficient quantities and is not adequately delivered during heart failure. Supplementation may improve chest pain, fatty acids metabolism and exercise tolerance.
About L-Carnitine
L-Carnitine binds to fatty acids to transport them into the mitochondria, the organelle that produces most of the energy your cells need to function. L-Carnitine also binds to metabolic waste to be shuttled out of the mitochondria and removed from the body. Red meat is the richest dietary source of L-carnitine; however, it is also found in chicken and fish, as well as in smaller amounts in wheat, asparagus, avocados and peanut butter.
Heart Failure
Heart failure is usually due to blockage of the coronary arteries that supply blood and nutrients to the heart muscles. Heart attack, congenital conditions and some types of irregular heart rhythms may also cause heart failure. As the muscles of your heart fatigue, blood cannot be pumped from your heart efficiently enough to supply your body with oxygen and nutrients, especially during periods of increased metabolism such as exercise. A few small studies suggest that carnitine -- usually propionyl-L-carnitine -- can help reduce symptoms of heart failure; however, larger studies are needed to confirm this evidence, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Benefits of L-Carnitine
Many cases of heart disease also present with obesity and dysfunctional metabolism whereby the body is unable to produce enough L-carnitine for proper fatty acid metabolism. Additionally, not enough blood is circulated throughout the body to supply all the cells with L-carnitine. Supplements containing L-carnitine will raise levels in the blood and levels delivered to your cells. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, several clinical trials indicate that L-carnitine can help reduce symptoms of angina, improving the ability of those affected to exercise without chest pain.
Safe Supplementation
L-Carnitine is not a treatment for heart failure and should never be substitute for prescription medication. Don't attempt to treat suspected heart failure with L-carnitine, but instead of seeking medical attention. Only take L-carnitine under the supervision of the doctor who is treating your heart failure. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the usual dose to treat angina and heart failure is 1.5 to 2 g per day. Very high doses may cause a fishy body odor, diarrhea, appetite irregularities and rash.
Member Comments