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Carnitine

Description

Carnitine is an amino acid the body uses to turn fat into energy. Carnitine supplementation may improve energy production.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Obesity - Chronic fatigue or low energy - Low endurance during exercise - Depression - High cholesterol - Irregular heartbeat - Improved heart function - Angina - Intermittent claudication - Post heart attack - Alzheimer’s disease - Fibromyalgia - Male infertility

Clinical Applications/Research

Carnitine

Isolated in 1905 from meat extracts, it took almost 50 more years to discover the function of carnitine in human physiology. Carnitine is a “vitamin-like” molecule that transports fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane for oxidation, a process that is vital to energy production. It has been argued that carnitine may be an essential nutrient for the newborn. There is no dietary requirement for carnitine in adults. Carnitine is found in meat and dairy products; carnitine is also manufactured in the body from lysine (an essential amino acid) in the presence of methionine (essential amino acid), vitamin C, vitamin B-6, niacin and iron. If carnitine is deficient, energy is reduced and fat is not burned efficiently. The involvement of carnitine in mitochondrial transport is believed to play an integral role in branched chain amino acid metabolism (Shils M & Young V, eds. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease., 7th ed. 1988. Lea & Febiger, Philadelphia, Pa. p. 453). Carnitine helps the body turn food into energy. Therefore, carnitine provides the body with abundant energy. Other nutrients that help increase energy include coenzyme Q10, B-Complex, magnesium, lipoic acid and antioxidants. Since carnitine burns fat, it is one of the primary nutrients used for weight loss. Carnitine has also been used to increase maximum endurance and peak performance in athletes. Carnitine is mainly used in heart-related disorders.

Suggested Dosage

500-1000 mg three times daily or as directed by your healthcare professional.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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