L-carnitine is a water-soluble, vitamin-like compound that facilitates the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, or powerhouses, of your body's cells. L-carnitine magnesium citrate is a commercially manufactured nutritional supplement that combines the mineral compound, magnesium citrate, with L-carnitine in order to enhance its absorption into your bloodstream through your small intestine. L-carnitine magnesium citrate resembles a fine crystallized white powder and is usually available in capsules containing about 500 mg each.
History
L-carnitine was discovered in 1905 and was considered to be an essential vitamin until it was later revealed to be a conditionally essential amino acid. Carnitine is considered conditionally essential because although it is required for use in metabolic reactions in your body, it can be synthesized in your liver from other amino acids, especially lysine and methionine. Meat products, such as beef and pork, are the best places to find natural L-carnitine, and since it is conditionally essential, deficiencies are extremely rare.
Uses
L-carnitine supplementation may enhance physical performance during exercise because of its metabolic functions in the muscle cell (See Reference 1). L-carnitine mobilizes fatty acids, moving them from your body's fat stores into your muscles to undergo oxidation in order to break them down for energy during exercise. In a study published in 1991 in "Medicine and Sport Science," researchers suggest that L-carnitine may facilitate the oxidation of pyruvate, which may enhance exercise performance during short-term maximal exercise.
Medical Benefits
L-carnitine supplementation, particularly with the enhanced uptake due to the presence of magnesium citrate, may improve exercise capability in patients with serious diseases. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that L-carnitine supplementation may benefit individuals suffering from heart diseases, such as angina, heart attack and heart failure. UMMC also states that L-carnitine supplementation may benefit individuals with peripheral artery disease, diabetic neuropathy, sexual dysfunctions, chronic fatigue syndrome, hyperthyroidism, and Alzheimer's disease, although more research needs to be done in these fields. L-carnitine magnesium citrate is not a substitute for conventional treatment. Consult your physician for treatment if you suffer from any of these conditions.
Side Effects
The side effects of L-carnitine supplementation are generally mild, according to UMMC, and typically include diarrhea, increased appetite, unusual body odor and the appearance of a skin rash. These effects are typically only observed when high doses of L-carnitine are ingested. The magnesium citrate compound attached to L-carnitine may cause upset stomach and diarrhea. In rare cases, you may experience an allergic reaction to magnesium citrate, which may cause hives, itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, diarrhea, and weakness. If you believe you may be experiencing an allergic reaction to magnesium citrate, seek medical attention immediately.
References
- "Nutrition for Health, Fitness, and Sport"; Melvin H. Williams; 2002
- "Medicine and Sport Science"; L-carnitine Supplementation and Performance in Man; A. Wagenmakers; 1991
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Carnitine (L-carnitine); 2011
- Drugs.com; Magnesium Citrate Side Effects
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