A dietary supplement and nutrient is what L-carnitine is described as.
This supplement plays a major part in the production of energy, which helps transport fatty acids into your cells’ mitochondria.
What most people don’t know is for your body to produce enough of this, you also need to intake plenty of Vitamin C.
Ways to obtain small amounts of L-carnitine is by eating meat or dairy products. Vegans are unable to obtain enough which is why this supplement is needed and considered an essential nutrient.
Different Types of L-Carnitine:
- Acetyl-L-carnitine: The most effective form for your brain. Also helps with neurodegenerative diseases.
- D-carnitine: Has been shown to reduce the blood levels of carnitine and increase fat build up.
- L-carnitine L-tartrate: Normally added to sports supplements because of its rapid absorption. Aids to the soreness in muscles and recovery after exercise as well.
- Propionyl-L-carnitine: This aids to circulatory issues, also boosts the production of nitric oxide, this improves blood flow.
What role does L-carnitine play in my body?
The main role this supplement plays is the involvement in the mitochondrial function as well as the energy production.
When the cells help transport the fatty acids to the mitochondria it is later burned for energy.
L-carnitine is contained in your muscle more than 95%, also found in your kidneys, blood, liver and heart. It also helps to increase the function of the Mitochondria, this plays a major role in disease and healthy aging which is so important.
Does it help with weight loss?
L-carnitine can sometimes be used as a weight loss supplement, this is because it helps move more of the fatty acids into the cells that are later burned for energy.
In some studies it showed that using this supplement reduced peoples BMI, body weight and fat mass.
Effects on Brain Function
By taking L-carnitine researchers have seen it help prevent age-related mental decline and also improve the markers of learning.
A study had shown that taking this supplement daily greatly improved people with dementia and their brain function.
What foods contain this Nutrient?
- Milk
- Beef
- Hard Cheese
- Pork
- Chicken
These all contain small amounts of L-carnitine, which has a greater absorption rate than supplements.
Who is not able to take this Supplement?
- Pregnant women or nursing
- Children
- Patients on Bloodthinners
What will L-carnitine benefit:
- Reduce muscle soreness
- Improves high intensity exercise performance
- Improves exercise recovery
- Increase oxygen supply to muscles
- Increases stamina
- Increases production of red blood cells
Till next time, Stay healthy
Dr. Steven Nickels
Citations
Mawer, R. (2023, May 9). L-carnitine – a review of benefits, side effects and dosage. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/l-carnitine