L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine is a vitamin supplement I'm suggesting now for my clients whose protein levels are lacking, and are looking to lose weight. A common trend I find.

Any nutrition or vitamin shop should carry it.

L-carnitine is very similar to the nonessential amino acid carnitine. It performs some of the same functions, such as helping metabolize food into energy. L-carnitine is synthesized in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine. 

L-carnitine transfers long-chain fatty acids, such as triglycerides into mitochondria (a cell's energy powerhouse), where they may be oxidized to produce energy. L-carnitine promotes growth and development. It is also used for fat-burning, increasing energy, and improving resistance to muscle fatigue. L-carnitine helps to build muscle. It is also great in dieting, as it reduces feelings of hunger and weakness.

Studies have been conducted on L-carnitine since as early as 1937. Those studies yielded positive results suggesting that the body's cardiovascular system can greatly benefit from its intake. There are a variety of published studies that suggest L-carnitine is useful in increasing the heart's output and improving it's functioning, as well as stimulating the heart's energy supply and supporting cardiac performance.

For diabetics... L-Carnitine improved glucose disposal among 15 patients with type II diabetes and 20 healthy volunteers. Glucose storage increased between both groups, but glucose oxidation increased only in the diabetic group. Finally, glucose uptake increased about 8% for both.

Because kidneys produce carnitine, kidney disease may lead to the deficiency of carnitine in the body. Thus, carnitine may be prescribed to those with kidney disease. 

L-Carnitine has also been known to aid symptoms of depression.

It takes about a week or so of daily use for it to start taking effect. So I reccomend starting slowly. 1 in the morning the first week. Then add one at lunch the second week. See how your energy levels are. If you feel like you get through the day well then I'd leave it at that. If you still feel a lack of energy you could go as many as 3 a day but no more. Too much L-Carnitine in your system can lead to restless nights of sleep, and we don't want that. It is also not recommended for anyone who have an underactive thyroid condition, as it may aggravate it. Those with an OVERactive thyroid can benefit greatly from it.

L-Carnitine is not a stimulant, nor is it a thermogenic. It's simply a supplement of a chemical that your body naturally produces. Some people just produce more than others. I highly recommend this economical vitamin supplement for anyone looking to lose fat, maintain muscle, and reap the other endless rewards it offers.