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Carnitine, also known as L-carnitine, is an amino acid derivative which is manufactured by the body and used in energy metabolism and for proper use of fats. It transports fatty acids into mitochondria, the powerhouses of cells. In infancy and in situations of high energy consumption such as pregnancy and breast-feeding, the need for L-carnitine can exceed the body's production of this amino acid. L-carnitine is used as a dietary supplement to treat carnitine deficiency. It may also be used in persons with abnormal plasma lipoprotein patterns.
Suggested L-Carnitine health benefits:
Carnitine will give an energy boost, which in addition to converting body fat to fuel will elevate certain enzymes needed to metabolize sugars, starches, and other carbohydrates. Athletes and casual exercisers can benefit from carnitine supplementation because it reduces the accumulation of lactic acid, which is responsible for the burn felt inside the muscles. This may enable exercisers to gain without the pain, as one study confirmed.
Carnitine is also useful in clearing the bloodstream of ammonia and aids in creating glycogen, used to store essential glucose.
Carnitine has been used in connection with angina, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, congestive heart failure (propionyl-L-carnitine), heart attacks, and intermittent claudication.
Carnitine can help to prevent muscle atrophy. Anyone suffering from a severe degenerative disease, such as cancer or AIDS, may benefit from carnitine supplementation.
Cardiomyopathy, a disease of the heart muscle, becomes a distinct possibility for those suffering from carnitine defficiency. This amino acid protects the heart from damage when a heart attack or a spasm cuts off the oxygen supply.
It has been suggested that taking 2 grams of carnitine per day for four weeks can cut the number of complications from heart attack, including chest pains (angina), heart rhythm disturbances, and heart failure by 50.
Congestive heart failure flaws our ability to make carnitine. However, taking 900 mg per day improved the health of one group of congestive heart failure patients, significantly increasing both their energy and their ability to exercise.
Carnitine is considered very important for infants. Infants usually receive the carnitine they require through breast milk or fortified formulas, but this doesn't always happen. Breast feeding mothers who are vegetarians may benefit by taking carnitine supplements.
Low thyroid function may indicate a need for carnitine to help overcome low energy levels and the tendency to gain weight.
Kidney dialysis rinses away amino acids, causing weak, tired condition, which is threatened by high triglycerides. Carnitin supplements may be advisable in such situations.
Carnitine may prove somewhat useful in connection with diabetes, hypertension, liver disease, and immune problems. However, not enough studies have been performed to substantiate any prescriptions for the aforementioned conditions.