Energy Support

Dairy and red meat contain the greatest amounts of L-Carnitine.  Only small amounts are found in plants, such as avocado and some fermented soy products (e.g., tempeh).  

L-Carnitine is made in the body from the amino acids l-lysine and l-methionine (synthesized in the kidneys).  It is needed to release energy from fat.  L-carnitine releases energy by removing short-chain and medium-chain fatty acids from  mitochondria.  Build-up of these fatty acids interferes with mitochondrias' bioenergy-producing process, which can lead to muscle weakness and fatigue. 

L-Carnitine is used for supporting muscle and heart health.  Many studies have reported favorable results using L-Carnitine to promote cardiovascular health and to enhance athletic performance and endurance. 

It is also used for supporting  healthy insulin levels and energy production.

Notes:

1. Chronic Liver Disease -- Avoid L-Carnitine due to impaired L-Carnitine  metabolism or increased L-Carnitine biosynthesis leading to overly high levels of this amino acid derivative.
2. Coenzyme Q-10 and L-Carnitine may have synergistic effects.
3. Seizures -- An increase in seizure frequency or severity has been reported in people with a history of seizures using L-Carnitine orally or intravenously. 

Research Studies

• Plioplys AV, Plioplys S. Amantadine and L-carnitine treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.  Neuropsychobiology 1997;35(1):16-23

• Berthillier G, Eichenberger D, Carrier HN, et al. Carnitine metabolism in early stages of Duchenne muscular distrophy.  Clin Chim Acta 1982; 122(3):369-75.
• Kletzmayr J, Mayer G, Legenstein E, et al.  Anemia and carnitine supplementation in hemodialyzed patients.  II. Clinical and biochemical effects.  Kidney Int 1990;38(5):912-8.
• Cacciatore L, Cerio R, Ciarimboli M, et al. The therapeutic effect of L-carnitine in patients with exercise-induced stable angina: a controlled study.  Drugs Exp Clin Res 1991;17(4):225-35.
• Ghidini O, Azzurro M, Vita G., Satori G.  Evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy of L-carnitine in congestive heart failure.  Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol 1988;26(4):217-20.