Proponents of aceytl-L-carnitine supplements say these supplements will help you achieve weight loss and enhance exercise performance. Acetyl-L-carnitine is made from an amino acid in your cells that plays a vital role in energy production, the Office of Dietary Supplements explains. Acetyl-L-carnitine facilitates the transfer of long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria to be converted into energy. Acetyl-L-carnitine also removes toxins from the mitochondria to prevent accumulation. However, no scientific evidence conclusively supports weight loss claims.
Dosing
Never give acetyl-L-carnitine supplements to children without a doctor's supervision, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes. The adult dosage of acetyl-L-carnitine varies per health condition being treated. Hyperthyroidism requires between 2 to 4 g per day taken in two to four doses spread out throughout the day. Male infertility requires about 300 to 1,000 mg taken three times daily. Heart disease treatment requires 600 mg to 1,000 mg taken three times daily. Diabetic neuropathy requires 3 g per day. The usual dose for supplement use is about 500 mg to 2,000 mg daily, the Linus Pauling Institute says.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine and Weight Loss
Studies have shown fat-reduction capabilities in acetyl-L-carnitine, the University of Maryland Medical Center says. It supposedly increases muscle mass and reduces exercise fatigue. These effects might contribute to weight loss. However, no conclusive evidence substantiates a direct correlation between acetyl-L-carnitine supplement use and improved weight loss. Nevertheless, acetyl-L-carnitine is available over-the-counter for supplement use.
Possible Interactions and Adverse Effects
Acetyl-L-carnitine's possible side effects include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, the Linus Pauling Institute says. You will also experience diarrhea from acetyl-L-carnitine use. Taking more than 3,000 mg per day will cause your body to emit a fishy odor. Acetyl-L-carnitine protects muscle tissue against the side effects of AZT, a kind of HIV and AIDS medication, the University of Maryland Medical Center says. Acetyl-L-carnitine also shields heart cells from the side effects of doxorubicin. Acetyl-L-carnitine alleviates the liver side effects of isotretinoin, a type of medication used to treat severe acne.
Dietary Sources
Acetyl-L-carnitine can be found in beef. Every 4 oz of cooked beef steak contains 56 to 162 mg of acetyl-L-carnitine. About 4 to 7 mg of acetyl-L-carnitine can be obtained from every 4 oz. of cooked cod fish. Half a cup of ice cream contains 3 mg of acetyl-L-carnitine. Cheese contains 2 mg of acetyl-L-carnitine in every 2 oz.
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