L-carnitine, or carnitine, is a nutrient that helps your body turn fat into energy. Your body usually produces enough carnitine in the liver and kidneys to meet its needs. However, some individuals become deficient because their bodies cannot produce, or transport enough. Conditions such as angina, where your heart does not get enough blood, can cause deficiency. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, carnitine has varied usage because it helps reduce oxidative stress.
Deficiency
Carnitine supplements treat primary and secondary carnitine deficiency, which is when you have a mutation in certain genes that produce or transport carnitine. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, there are no identified carnitine deficiencies in healthy individuals without metabolic disorders. Even if you are vegetarian or vegan, chances are, your carnitine levels are adequate.
Angina
Angina causes you have to chest pain or discomfort from lack of blood flow to your heart. It often feels like pressure or squeezing in your chest. Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease, when arteries leading to your heart narrow, usually by plaque buildup, reducing blood flow. According to UMMC, clinical studies indicate L-carnitine helps reduce symptoms of angina and improves the ability to exercise without chest pain.
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Peripheral vascular disease is when you have decreased blood flow to your legs. The cause is atherosclerosis, a plaque buildup in your arteries. You may feel aching or cramping in your legs, especially during exercise. You may also experience difficulty walking. According to UMMC, studies indicate Propionyl-L-carnitine, a more active form of carnitine, helps reduce symptoms of PVD and improves walking ability. Scientists are unclear if L-carnitine has the same effect, more studies are necessary.
Kidney Disease
Kidney disease means you have a condition that damages your kidneys, reducing their function. Your kidneys act as your body's filter, removing toxins and waste from your blood daily. Decreased kidney function causes waste to build up in your blood and you may need dialysis treatment with a machine that cleans your blood. Since your kidneys make carnitine, your doctor may prescribe it if you have kidney disease. It is important to consult your doctor before taking carnitine.
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