Carnitine is an element naturally synthesized in the body by the liver and kidneys from essential amino acids, such as lysine and methionine, which are present in certain foods, such as meat and fish.Carnitine plays a key role in transporting fat from fat cells to cellular mitochondria, where carnitine is converted into energy when the body needs it.
L-Carnitine is the biologically active form of carnitine and is mainly stored in muscles, being widely used in supplements to improve fat burning, generate more energy for muscles and improve physical performance, being widely consumed by athletes or people who want to lose weight.
- Carnitine is widely used primarily for weight loss.
- However.
- Studies that bring this relationship are quite controversial.
- As there are studies indicating that L-carnitine supplementation increases its concentration in the body.
- Activating oxidation and therefore helps to decrease fat.
- Accumulated in the body of obese people.
On the other hand, there are also studies that indicate that oral carnitine consumption does not promote changes in carnitine concentration in healthy non-obese people and does not cause weight loss, in addition, other benefits that could be achieved with L-carnitine supplementation are:
It is important to note that more scientific studies are needed to prove these benefits, as the results are not conclusive.
There are several types of carnitine, which are used for different purposes, namely:
It is important that your doctor indicates carnitine based on the person’s goal.
L-Carnitine can be purchased in capsule, powder or liquid form. The recommended daily dose varies depending on the purpose of its use and may be:
In the case of L-carnitine, treatment is performed with 2 capsules, 1 bulb or 1 tablespoon of L-carnitine, 1 hour before exercise and always according to the nutritionist’s advice.
To improve sperm quality in infertile people, some studies indicate that consuming 2 g of L-carnitine for 2 months could help improve quality.
L-Carnitine is contraindicated for people with a very low BMI, low fat content or heart problems.
Side effects that L-carnitine can cause include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and muscle pain.