Typical trial doses are 1 to 3 grams per day and effects usually appear over 8 to 24 weeks. How much weight will I lose with L-carnitine? For sports and body composition goals, L-carnitine tartrate is the more common choice in trials. L-Carnitine and Weight Loss One potential reason could the inability to increase muscle carnitine concentrations, although, in the case of Broad et al. , no biopsies were performed to report this statement. In the same line, a lack of improvements in a scale of perceived exertion, V˙O2 peak, and total time in tests of gradual exercise on a treadmill and 90 min on a cycle ergometer at 65% V˙O2 max was observed two 2 of the studies 30,34. In consequence, it would increase muscle fat transport and oxidation, as well as delay muscle glycogen depletion 23,53. For that reason, oral carnitine feeding has been advocated as a possible ergogenic aid, with the main premise that it increases muscle carnitine content. Although a genetic predisposition is important to perform this type of discipline, training and nutrition protocols are essential to improve performance in moderate-intensity exercise events . LC is essential in various metabolic pathways, including fatty acid metabolism, amino acid catabolism, and mitochondrial activity as mentioned in Table 1.If you’re not exercising that day, you can take it before a meal to help your body burn fat more efficiently.It is a naturally occurring amino acid made in the brain, liver, and kidneys and is found in foods like beef, pork, fish, poultry, and milk.This dual role shows the delicate balance between LC’s positive and detrimental effects, which is influenced by microbiota composition and metabolic pathways 18, 26, 38.The recommended dosage of L-Carnitine for weight loss varies depending on individual goals and needs.Despite this debate, understanding how L-Carnitine might influence weight loss could be crucial for those looking to optimize their body composition through scientifically grounded methods.In this randomized placebo-controlled double blind study in subjects aged 55–70 years, researchers investigated the potential synergistic effect of this novel formulation in comparison to placebo after eight-week supplementation. Current guidelines do not recommend this supplement for preventing CIPN (54). In prostate cancer patients initiating androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), a low-carb diet reversed ADT-induced metabolic abnormalities which included reductions in acylcarnitine (60). But it did not improve fatigue in patients with invasive malignancies (28). So, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation. The best time to take carnitine is before a workout as it can enhance your performance and aid in fat loss. It's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements to ensure they align with your specific needs. For those struggling with fatigue or bad sleep on top of feeling low, L-carnitine could offer a double benefit – making days brighter and nights more restful. Some studies found that this supplement improves how the body uses sugar. This is because it saves muscle glycogen, which is like fuel for your muscles, and increases fat oxidation, where your body breaks down fat to use as fuel. Be mindful about the dosage on the bottle and do not consume more than what is recommended, since large doses may cause side effects. However, you may not be consuming enough or have dietary restrictions that do not allow for meat and dairy, so it is important to supplement with CLA. Getting small amounts of CLA from meat or dairy products is beneficial for weight management. In one trial, participants supplemented with propionyl-L-carnitine had improved peak walking times (walking until pain could not be tolerated), self-reported improvements in walking distance and speed, and decreased pain. A systematic review of three randomized clinical trials compared 234 participants who took 2 g/day oral propionyl-L-carnitine for 4 to 6 months with 222 patients who took placebo . Researchers have examined whether propionyl-L-carnitine, an acyl derivative of L-carnitine, mitigates the cramping leg pain of intermittent claudication, the main symptom of peripheral artery disease, but findings from studies have been mixed. Cutting calories and carbs may not be the only reason for the weight loss with low-carb diets. Most people can lose weight if they limit calories and boost their physical activity. Insulin is released to help glucose enter the body's cells, where it can be used for energy. The body uses carbs as its main energy source. A low-carb diet is generally used for weight loss. It is clear that in beta-oxidation of long-chain fatty acids, carnitine is essential for the transport of long-chain acyl-CoA as long-chain acylcarnitine across the inner membrane of the mitochondrion. The importance of carnitine in the oxidation of medium-chain fatty acids has been discussed recently (Borum, 1992). Long-chain fatty acids activated to the CoA level were the first acylcarnitines to be documented as being transported across a membrane, as diagramed in Figure 21–3. The first well-documented function of carnitine was found to be facilitation of the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the matrix of the mitochondrion, which is the site for beta-oxidation. It could improve the health of reproduction and help men conceive successfully, especially for those whose fertility is failing. Studies have shown that supplemental L-Carnitine aids in reducing the blood sugar concentration by improving sensitivity to insulin. L-Carnitine is also known to increase insulin sensitivity, and it is thus a useful supplement for those suffering from type 2 diabetes. It may have neuroprotective effects because of the reduction of oxidative stress in the brain. It helps recover quickly after exercise, which allows them to train harder and more frequently. To burn fat and lose weight, your body has to be at a caloric deficit, burning more calories throughout the day than you take in. Consistent exercise will help burn fat, lose weight, and improve overall health. It also helps with weight loss because of its ability to increase energy, improve physical performance, and improve workout recovery. L-carnitine injections allow amino acids to enter the bloodstream directly and enhance lipid metabolism faster than oral doses. L-carnitine is a naturally occurring derivative of one of the amino acids, lysine, that's produced in the brain, kidneys, and liver but stored in the muscles. De Grandis D, Minardi C. Acetyl-L-carnitine (levacecarnine) in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. The effect of L-acetylcarnitine on some reproductive functions in the oligoasthenospermic rat. A placebo-controlled double-blind randomized trial of the use of combined l-carnitine and l-acetyl-carnitine treatment in men with asthenozoospermia. During follow-up, all the biological samples are collected from every participant within 3–4 days (window period). For blood samples, the study physician collects 5 ml of whole venous blood sample in a blood collection tube aseptically from each participant as per the SOPs. Entire inpatient days at NRU are calculated by subtracting the day of admission from the day of discharge from NRU (After exceeding 80% to 85% of the expected value of WLZ and free of edema, children are discharged from NRU) . Outcome assessments are blinded to the study participant’s randomization status. The investigational products are provided to the study participants at the (NRU) under a controlled set-up. The carnitine transport system maintains the high energy level of the acylcoenzyme A (acylCoA), allowing the acyl-CoA to be esterified on the opposite side of the membrane without the use of an additional ATP molecule. Figure 21–4 illustrates the fact that the transport of acylcarnitine across a membrane delivers both the carbon chain and high energy (equivalent to an ATP molecule) to the new site. An important characteristic of acylcarnitine is that it is a high-energy compound, and thus, the acyl-CoA can be reformed without the use of an ATP molecule (Borum, 1986). The disadvantages of lactate production are that it can cause acidosis and it is a low-energy compound. During exercise, carnitine is critical in providing needed substrates and in removing potentially toxic compounds. Does the manuscript provide a valid rationale for the proposed study, with clearly identified and justified research questions? The funders had and will not have a role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript. All relevant data from this study will be made available upon study completion. Concluding L-Carnitine for Fat Loss: Uses, Dosage, Benefits, and Side Effects Several clinical trials conducted in the 1990s examined the effect of acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) treatment on the cognitive performance of patients clinically diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. The metabolomic profiling of acylcarnitine molecules showed variations in serum concentrations of subjects along the continuum from cognitively healthy to affected by Alzheimer's disease (97). Additionally, two small studies in participants presenting with antiretroviral-induced neuropathy found significant reduction in subjects' mean pain intensity with oral ALCAR (1-3 g/day) for 4 to 24 weeks, but no effect on objective neurophysiological parameters was found (82, 83). Maximize your gains and build the body you want with our guide on the best exercises for every muscle group. Maximize your gains and build the body you want with our guide on the best exercises for every muscle group. The Best Exercises For Every Muscle GroupMaximize your gains and build the body you want with our guide on the best exercises for every muscle group. We’re committed to flipping the healthcare script all over the globe. A lot of work goes into compounding medications, so a 60—or 90-day supply is efficient and could save you money in the long run. Nothing thrills us more than helping people strive for their very best life. If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking L-carnitine and talk to your doctor. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking L-carnitine, especially if you have any health conditions. They can help you determine if it is right for you and can help you set realistic expectations for weight loss. This is because L-carnitine can help to deliver more oxygen to the muscles, which allows them to work harder for longer. But because of its role in fat metabolism, it's best known for its ability to aid in weight loss, particularly when combined with a healthy diet and exercise routine. The amount of weight loss achievable with L-carnitine varies widely depending on individual factors such as diet, exercise, metabolism, and overall health. Taking L-carnitine with meals may also be beneficial, as it can help transport fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. L-carnitine is often touted as a weight loss supplement due to its role in fat metabolism. Instead, it works by increasing the body’s ability to burn fat for energy, making it a more sustainable and healthy approach to weight loss. L-Carnitine is required for mitochondrial β-oxidation of long-chain fatty acids for energy production (1). It is most concentrated in tissues that use fatty acids as their primary fuel, such as skeletal and cardiac muscle. The rate of L-carnitine biosynthesis in humans was studied in strict vegetarians (i.e., in people who consume very little dietary carnitine) and estimated to be 1.2 µmol/kg of body weight/day (9). L-carnitine is primarily synthesized in the liver and transported via the bloodstream to cardiac and skeletal muscle, which rely on L-carnitine for fatty acid oxidation yet cannot synthesize it (8). This explains the rise in muscle and liver glycogen stores of the CAR treated groups in this study. L-carnitine is an important factor in glycogen synthesis and ATP production and its concentration in muscle is directly proportional to muscle glycogen stores . The lowered blood glucose levels in CR rats are inevitable as an early response to caloric restriction in mammals as also noticed in the present study. Amongst the groups, there has been a significant improvement in physical performance of CAR (54 %) and CR + CAR (69 %) groups when compared to their basal swim time on day 0 (P P 1). Reducing fatigue and muscle damage can improve exercise performance and help burn more calories. L-carnitine, a naturally occurring amino acid derivative, has gained popularity for weight loss. L-carnitine is a naturally occurring compound that is vital to the body’s energy production and metabolism. L-carnitine is an amino acid derivative commonly used as supplementation. However, to actually reap the L carnitine benefits, it needs to be one component of a comprehensive plan, balanced diet and regular exercise routine in addition to monitoring personal health parameters. Being a competitive athlete who needs to increase endurance or someone who wants to get rid of unwanted fat-L-Carnitine's benefits can add a good deal to your effort for weight loss. There are various studies indicating that athletes and active individuals on L-Carnitine intake have reduced fatigues and increased endurance during their workouts, making their exercises much more effective. Also, one study found that taking L-carnitine 2 grams twice daily for 8 weeks along with exercise did not reduce body weight in obese females. Other studies suggest that L-carnitine supplements likely do not have an effect on reducing the risk of death or heart problems in people who have had a previous heart attack. L-carnitine supplementation is generally considered safe for most people when used in appropriate doses. This allows fatty acids to be used as an energy source, which is especially important during periods of prolonged physical activity or during periods of low carbohydrate intake, when glucose is less available. A related compound, acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR), differs slightly from standard L-Carnitine. Although your body produces some L-Carnitine, additional amounts are obtained through foods like red meat, dairy, fish, and certain plant-based sources such as avocados. This guide covers everything you need to know about L-Carnitine, including its benefits, dosage recommendations, and potential side effects. This section collects any data citations, data availability statements, or supplementary materials included in this article. All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this article. That logic is appealing, and it is the reason L-carnitine has been studied in athletes, older adults, and people with overweight or obesity. E-bp is a fitness and health blog that provides expert reviews of products, tips to help you lose weight and gain muscle, and general advice on how to get fit and stay healthy. This means that up to a certain point, more L-Carnitine led to more weight loss, but after hitting the sweet spot at around 2000 mg/day, the benefits plateaued faster than your motivation to work out post-January. From improving exercise performance and endurance to potentially aiding in muscle recovery, L-Carnitine seems to have a finger in every pie. This is where the fitness enthusiasts and weight loss warriors perk up their ears, hoping to turn their bodies into fat-burning machines. The aim of Liepinsh’s study was to investigate whether there is a beneficial effect of the combination of exercise and long-chain AC decreasing treatment on insulin sensitivity.Exercise-induced muscle damage and pain can both decrease quality of life and limit further training activity.You should always look for the purest forms of an L carnitine supplement, and keep quantity in mind.In vivo studies demonstrate that L-PC was able to significantly lower blood pressure in CyA treated animals and to prevent decrease creatinine clearance that normally results from CyA administration .Hence, consuming L-carnitine naturally may support your weight loss efforts when combined with regular exercise and a healthy diet.It is possible that the observed effects are supported by others mechanisms than energy production.A transport protein is needed to take up carnitine against this gradient and this transport is the limiting factor. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as heartburn, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Studies have shown that it can be as effective as antidepressant medications with fewer adverse effects. Some research indicates that L-carnitine, particularly the acetyl form, may help reduce symptoms of depression. These factors can contribute to better overall physical performance and endurance. L-carnitine is essential for transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they can be burned for energy. Compared to these supplements, L-Carnitine is particularly known for its role in energy production and fat transport, which makes it more directly involved in fat metabolism during exercise. L-carnitine is a naturally occurring compound that plays a crucial role in transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria, the energy-producing powerhouses of cells. By bringing fatty acids into the mitochondria, it gives your body access to stored fat as energy. By facilitating the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria, L-Carnitine helps the body convert stored fat into usable energy. Take L‑carnitine with a meal or post‑workout snack, keep dosing consistent each day, and combine supplements with regular exercise and modest dietary consistency. Prescription medicines such as semaglutide (injectable) and tirzepatide (injectable) produce substantially larger average weight loss in high quality trials than L‑carnitine supplements. Yet, under conditions with aberrations, such as inborn or acquired carnitine deficiency, hemodialysis, or in sarcopenic and frail subjects, supplementation with l-carnitine has been shown to increase physical performance and muscle mass and function. Under healthy conditions and in the absence of stress, l-carnitine availability is not a limiting factor in fatty acid β-oxidation. A few studies have reduced the intake by a fixed number of calories rather than a percentage of the regular intake. Studies have shown the effects of reduced caloric intake with a cut down on calories by 20–25 % of ad libitum fed subjects 7, 8. The beneficial effects on glucoregulatory functions, improved insulin sensitivity have been seen in rodents and rhesus monkeys 5, 6. CR exhibits a variety of improvements related to overall health through involvement of multiple metabolic pathways. Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) has been reported to increase agitation in some Alzheimer's disease patients (133).B Vitamins and Energy Production B Vitamins act as coenzymes that facilitate the conversion of macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats and proteins) into usable energy.We all benefit from the data that comes out of these studies, but not all of us get sliced up while doing an intense workout in the process.The protective effect of L-carnitine on ST-elevation myocardial infarction has been documented.They seem to work better when taken for a longer time (≥50 weeks) and in higher doses ( ≥2 g/day).This lack of consistent evidence has not prevented the trend of selling it as a supplement for athletes looking to improve their physical endurance and performances. - Weight Loss Post-hoc analyses comparing the effects of L-carnitine supplementation between young (21 to 40 years old) and older (41 to 65 years old) subjects, as well as between genders, were performed. Participants engaged in a moderate 5-week exercise training program twice per week with the final training session on the fifth week of supplementation consisting of a supervised lower-body exercise challenge specifically constructed to induce muscle damage. Volek and colleagues found that circulating plasma myoglobin and creatine kinase (CK), both markers of muscle damage, were significantly attenuated, and that malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative stress, returned to resting values at a faster rate with L-carnitine supplementation compared to placebo. As fitness enthusiasts continue to seek ways to optimize their weight loss and performance outcomes, understanding the role of supplements like L-Carnitine becomes crucial. Also, results from our study demonstrated that consuming carnitine supplements improved HDL-C levels. It's crucial to choose reputable brands that undergo rigorous testing to ensure purity and potency; Some supplements may contain fillers or inactive ingredients that dilute the effectiveness of the L-carnitine. One common misconception is that L-carnitine is a standalone weight loss solution. These varied experiences emphasize the need for a nuanced understanding of L-carnitine's role in weight loss, moving beyond simplistic before-and-after comparisons to a more comprehensive scientific investigation. Mass Gainer Our liver and kidneys are our major suppliers of carnitine, with the skeletal muscles, brain and heart serving as our storage facilities.The carnitine dose and duration of the clinical trial did not appear to affect outcomes.There have been links made between vitamin B-12 deficiency and an increase in the loss of natural levels of carnitine.We found that L-carnitine administration was able to attenuate AST and ALT increases during modified fasting.Through this comprehensive analysis, the review aims to enrich our understanding of L-carnitine's role in cardiovascular health, providing a robust foundation for future academic and clinical endeavors.Given its potential fat-burning capabilities, it’s thought that L-carnitine optimises how your body uses fat for fuel, allowing you to exercise for longer.7 Some research has also found that 3 weeks’ supplementation with an L-carnitine supplement reduces muscle damage from high intensity exercise bouts.7L-carnitine fumarate is a more soluble form of L-carnitine and is often used in pharmaceutical applications.In this way, improved muscle strength (number of repetitions and third set lifting volume) and anaerobic performance by 30 s Wingate test (mean and peak power) 32,33, as well as decreased perceived exertion effort and an increase in work production 16,23, has been reported.It’s particularly beneficial for athletes and vegans, as well as for people with malabsorption disorders. It is the most studied and effective form of carnitine, with numerous benefits for weight loss, energy production, and heart health. It’s also important to note that carnitine should be taken in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise for optimal weight loss results. It plays a crucial role in energy production, transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they can be burned for energy. It’s responsible for the transportation of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are oxidized to produce energy. Adverse effects were mentioned in the studies by Derosa et al. (Flatulence, Constipation, abdominal pain, fatty/oily evacuation, increased defecation, fecal urgency, malaise), Hong et al. (61) (musculoskeletal pain and gastrointestinal disturbance), Malaguarnera et al. (67) (gastrointestinal tract complaints) and An et al. (48) (nausea, generalized edema, epigastric discomfort). We assessed the mean differences in FBG, HbA1c, insulin, and HOMA-IR between the L-carnitine supplementation and control groups from the baseline to the post-intervention. Moreover, the meta-analysis of 24 RCTs conducted by Asadi et al., in 2020 has shown that L-carnitine supplementation could reduce glycemic markers like FBG, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR. Inclusion criteria included adult participants and taking oral L-carnitine supplements for at least seven days. Any supplements taken should be used in accordance with a healthy lifestyle. Weight loss supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet and regular exercise. With patience and persistence, carnitine can be a valuable addition to any weight loss regimen. Carnitine can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and may enhance the effects of other supplements, such as creatine and antioxidants. Effect of L-carnitine supplementation (100 mg/kg body weight) and L-carnitine supplementation under calorie restriction on swim time (min) of rats on day 0 and day 5 of the study period. Effect of L-carnitine supplementation alone (100 mg/kg body weight) and under calorie restriction (25 %) for 5 days on blood glucose, liver and muscle glycogen, plasma and muscle protein, enzyme activities of CPT-1 and AMP kinase In light of its fundamental role in the β-oxidation of fatty acids for the purpose of energy production, and its role in the regulation of the acetyl-CoA pool, studies on l-carnitine as an ergogenic aid initially focused on of its interaction with exercise. Given its pivotal role in fatty acid oxidation and energy metabolism, l-carnitine has been investigated as ergogenic aid for enhancing exercise capacity in the healthy athletic population. Our study revealed that l-carnitine supplementation might have a positive effects in achieving an improved body weight and BMI especially in overweight and obese subjects. At Ask A Vet, we provide guideline-based dosing trackers, supplement planning tools, and 24/7 veterinary access to empower pet owners and clinicians. Does the fat simply dissolve itself? Does it stay somewhere else in the body? However, one can begin to wonder that what happens to the extra weight? What Acetyl-L-carnitine ALCAR does is that enhances or gives a power boost to said mitochondria. Whether you’re an athlete looking to improve your endurance or simply looking for a natural way to support your overall health, L-carnitine may be just what you need. This study investigated the hypothesis that L-carnitine, nicotinamide riboside and their combination attenuate the development of disease relative to the untreated HFD control group. Sacrifice plasma samples were used to measure L-carnitine, nicotinamide and several acylcarnitine levels. Dietary supplementation with LC and NR could constitute a new therapeutic approach to prevent obesity and its complications in the liver. An explanation for the seemingly discordant observations is provided by Lehman et al. who showed that medium chain acylcarnitines increase after exercise and acylcarnitines may enhance lipid oxidation . LC has garnered attention for its role in increasing TMAO levels in the bloodstream . According to experimental findings, TMAO has an impact on glucose metabolism and insulin resistance. The function of TMAO in causing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and insulin resistance in diabetes is well-documented, with TMAO levels greater in type 2 diabetics. Higher TMAO levels are linked to obesity and vitamin D deficiency, while causality is unknown. L-carnitine supplementation has shown improvement in glucose intolerance in conditions like obesity and diabetes . Only a few studies report so far the effect of L-carnitine on weight reduction on an energy-reduced diet. The test was carried out before any treatment was given on day 0 (basal data) and on day 5 after 2 h of drug supplementation during the study period. This increase is no longer observed in CR + CAR, thus suggesting the possible beneficial effects of CR + CAR. A depletion of the glycogen reserves in the CR rats was observed as a result of energy reduced diet. Molfino et al. has also suggested an increased intestinal uptake of carnitine during CR results in improved insulin resistance. It might lower the blood glucose levels by increasing its oxidation in cells. During the first 2 weeks, the workload was set at 65% of RM for each exercise, and the exercise was performed in three sets of 10–12 repetitions. The leg press and extension were performed at every training session, but the shoulder press and lateral pulldown were performed only on Monday or Tuesday, and the horizontal row and chest press only on Wednesday or Thursday. Each participant attended the program on Mondays and Wednesdays, or Tuesdays and Thursdays. During the study period, all subjects participated in the RT program, which was held in a commercial gym, twice a week. No recent and/or large-scale studies have been conducted to further examine the potential benefit of L-carnitine or propionyl-L-carnitine in the management of angina pectoris. In this study, propionyl-L-carnitine decreased myocardial ischemia, evidenced by significant reductions in ST-segment depression and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (62). Another randomized placebo-controlled trial in 2,330 patients with acute MI, L-carnitine therapy (9 g/day intravenously for five days, then 4 g/day orally for six months) did not affect the risk of heart failure and death six months after MI (50). L-carnitine is an amino acid that is naturally occurring in our environment as well as our bodies. And as a naturally produced amino acid, it seems to pop up in every new fat burner as the latest "must-have" ingredient. However, studies support its use for health, brain function, and disease prevention. L-carnitine is best known as a fat burner — but the overall research is mixed. As with any supplement, you should speak with your doctor before taking L-carnitine. Table 1. Baseline characteristics of the study participants. Plasma acylcarnitines are often increased in obese patients with type 2 diabetes and in high-fat diet induced animal models 8,35,36. Similarly, studies in mice reported lowering effects of 400 mg/kg NR on ALT , fasting glucose and an improvement in insulin sensitivity 9,29. LC with 2000 mg daily for 24 weeks resulted in lower glucose and plasma lipid levels in NASH patients as well as improved insulin sensitivity , whereas 19 months treatment with a very low dose of 100 mg/kg LC daily in mice did not reveal any significant effects on plasma lipid levels . This approach helped me maintain steady energy levels and avoid any jitters. L-carnitine is generally deemed to be safe for general use by the Food and Drug Administration, and most folks won’t suffer a side effect from a dose up to 2 grams per day. That’s why it’s important to get the timing right for these supplements to work at their best. It’s important to note that these are not designed as a magic weight loss pill. These supplements often include ingredients like green tea extract, caffeine, forskolin, Yohimbe, and glucomannan, but the formulas can vary a lot in strength. However, more research is needed to fully understand the implications of TMAO accumulation and its relationship with L-Carnitine supplementation. Additionally, L-Carnitine supplementation may interact with certain medications, including thyroid hormones, anticoagulants, and anticonvulsants. While L-Carnitine is generally considered safe for most people when taken at recommended dosages, there are some potential health concerns to consider. Supplementation with L-carnitine reduced circulating cytokine concentrations, while dietary carnosine did not. Dietary L-carnitine or carnosine increased lean mass in cats. The reduced cytokine concentrations seen with the inclusion of dietary L-carnitine alone are similar to those that were reported in the human 21,22, rats , mice , and black seabream fish . Increased TMAO levels are caused by lower clearance and increased synthesis as a result of gut dysbiosis, a weakened intestinal barrier, and increased hepatic enzyme activity. In CKD, uremic dysbiosis causes a decrease in microbial diversity, favoring the growth of pathogenic microbes that raise levels of compounds such as TMAO. Along with this, TMAO levels have other neurodegenerative properties as well . Furthermore, L-carnitine in doses less than 3000 mg/d was more effective in altering TC and HDL-C.If you are looking to lose weight, it is important to make lifestyle changes that you can stick with for the long term.Therefore, alterations in gut microbial metabolite production might be predictive for success in weight loss and cardiometabolic risk markers.In certain situations, cellular acyl-CoAs build-up as a result of an inborn error of fatty acid metabolism, and this also leads to an increase in acylcarnitines within the cell 12,14,15.It is important to talk to your doctor before taking L-carnitine, especially if you have any health conditions.Mixed-type latissimus dorsi of the dog was used to show the effect of carnitine on an in situ fatigue test.For help finding the perfect fat burner, take a look at our articles on the 8 Best Fat Burners For Men and the 9 Best Fat Burners For Women.Several times, gym trainers have recommended L-carnitine to gymgoers for better performance. As opposed to PCD, SCD occurs due to, or in association with, other disorders such as liver or kidney disease, defects in fatty acid metabolism, or administration of pharmacological agents such as pivampicillin or valproic acid (discussed below) 27, 41, 42. Primary carnitine deficiency (PCD) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of fatty acid oxidation caused by deficiency of plasma membrane carnitine transport resulting from impairment in the plasma membrane OCTN2 carnitine transporter. Experimental evidence suggests that the transport of long chain fatty acids into the mitochondria is a rate limiting step in fatty acid oxidation. Carnitine is actively transported via OCTN2 into the cytosol to participate in the shuttling of activated long chain fatty acids into the mitochondria where β-oxidation takes place. Omnivorous humans ingest 2-12 μmol/kg of body weight/day which represents 75% of body carnitine sources . This means that more fatty acid oxidation is increased, and more fat is utilized. By ensuring your L-carnitine stores are maxed out, you are optimizing fat metabolism. In terms of weight loss, it's this role in energy production that plays the largest role in dropping pounds. We're realistic enough to know that weight loss isn't as easy as taking a pill; this is a list of suggestions to potentially help you cross the finish line for your fitness goals rather than an immediate solution. Also, try to find supplements that list the amount of each ingredient on the label. Phen24's Day Formula contains caffeine, guarana, and cayenne powder for a thermogenic metabolism boost and L-phenylalanine, which has been shown to have positive effects on appetite reduction and overall satiety.(7) PhenQ includes a unique combination of natural metabolism-boosting ingredients that put in the hard work to help suppress appetite, boost energy, and improve mood. Best of all, this is one of the rare fat burners that help preserve muscle mass—a must for dudes who really want to look ripped, not just skinny. However, results can vary, and it may work better for some people than others.Flowchart of the process of initial literature search and extraction of studies meeting the inclusion criteria.We’re committed to flipping the healthcare script all over the globe.It may offer real benefits for people with medical conditions, dietary restrictions, or specific fertility or nerve health needs.Chronic oral ingestion of l‐carnitine and carbohydrate increases muscle carnitine content and alters muscle fuel metabolism during exercise in humans.A linear reduction was seen for serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and fasting plasma glucose up to l-carnitine supplementation of 4 g/d.Although a genetic predisposition is important to perform this type of discipline, training and nutrition protocols are essential to improve performance in moderate-intensity exercise events .L-Carnitine is responsible for transporting long-chain fatty acids to your cells’ mitochondria, where energy is then produced as the fat is oxidised and used for fuel. It is recommended to consume 1000mg -2000mg of L-carnitine for effective fat burning. Many people prefer consuming L-carnitine 30 min before the workout to get the maximum benefit. It is available in supplement form and is often used to support athletic performance. It’s essential to combine L-Carnitine with a healthy diet and regular exercise to see optimal results. Many fat burners on the market include carnitine for its fat-burning properties. Researchers saw improvements in both strength and aerobic capacity when subjects were given two grams of carnitine per day over a nine-week period. Almost all of these supplements will come in a powder or liquid form. You can also find carnitine in fat burners to potentially help with fat oxidation. For your body to produce plenty of its own carnitine, it appears to be important to eat plenty of vitamin C. Some low-carb diets may have health benefits beyond weight loss, such as lowering your risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Through their roles in energy production, fat metabolism and cellular function, these nutrients can help optimize metabolic efficiency and support overall wellness. Supporting Energy Production In addition to its role in fat metabolism, L-Carnitine also contributes to overall energy production. B12Obtained strictly from your diet or supplementation, cobalamin is an essential vitamin that is a cofactor in lipid synthesis and metabolism. The metabolomic profiling of acylcarnitine molecules showed variations in serum concentrations of subjects along the continuum from cognitively healthy to affected by Alzheimer's disease (97).As expected, because of the use of leaky mitochondria, the addition of an inhibitor of either pyruvate transport or carnitine transport across membranes had no effect on activity.This supplement isn’t good just for your body — it benefits your brain as well.This effect is likely more pronounced during periods of increased energy expenditure‚ such as exercise.Depletion of CoA would result in the inhibition of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex and the inhibition of oxoglutarate dehydrogenase in the citric acid cycle.L-carnitine produces smaller, modest additional weight loss but is an oral, over-the-counter option that can be used as an adjunct to diet and exercise.So if your aim is long‑term endurance improvements or a subtle shift in how your body uses fuel, plan for daily doses with meals — especially carbohydrate‑rich meals — over several months.So, are you ready to give your metabolism a boost and start shedding those pounds? As the researchers note, carnitine also improves your body’s ability to use carbs for fuel and regulates fluid levels. Acetyl L-carnitine has similar effects, but it might be a better choice for brain health. As a sports supplement, it may speed up recovery, attenuate muscle soreness, and boost physical performance. L-carnitine is widely used for athletes due to its role in energy production and fat loss. As a dietary supplement, L-carnitine may boost your mood, physical performance, and immune function — but more on that later. The timeline for seeing results from L-Carnitine can vary significantly based on several factors, including diet, exercise routine, and individual metabolism. People with certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, or those on specific medications should exercise caution when considering this supplement. The timing of L-Carnitine supplementation can depend on individual goals and lifestyle. This can further support weight loss goals as individuals may be able to train harder and longer, maximizing their calorie burn during physical activity. In summary, L-Carnitine can be a game-changer for those looking to enhance their weight loss journey. In order to identify and mitigate the effects of publication bias, we used the trim-and-fill method (39). The leave-one-out method (i.e., removing one trail at a time and recalculating the impact size) was used to examine the impact of each study on the pooled effect size. According to the criteria outlined by Fu et al., where there should be at least 6–10 studies for continuous and a minimum of 4 studies for categorical subgroup variables, subgroups were chosen based on the necessary minimum number of studies (33, 34). Timing of Dietary Supplementation One study tested how L-carnitine supplementation helps with recovery after exercise. While standalone products are great for overall health, people looking to lose weight by burning fat should consider a fat burner supplement that contains L-carnitine. The primary role of L-carnitine is to transport fatty acids into cells' mitochondria, which results in energy production. When paired with a proper diet and exercise, L-carnitine supplements can result in significant weight loss. These supplements should be strictly avoided by children and should not be consumed by pregnant or lactating women. In very few cases, consumers have experienced some unusual side effects like fishy body odor, rash, and abdominal cramps. Higher doses like 5gm or more per day can lead to mild side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is best to choose the right supplement by studying the ingredients and use the right one for you. Our bodies tend to absorb only 15% of carnitine from the supplement. Carnitine breaks down said fat into fatty acids and send them back to mitochondria to turn them into ATP energy that powers up the cell. The recent studies that have been made, have shown that carnitine can reduce fat levels and increase muscle mass. L-Carnitine aids and transports the breakdown of fatty acids within the body. L-carnitine is a non-essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in energy production within the body. Whether through standard supplementation, the use of acetyl-L-Carnitine, or weight loss injections, L-Carnitine can be a powerful tool in achieving weight loss goals. Its ability to boost fat burning, increase energy levels, and improve overall metabolic health makes it a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts. While our body can independently produce L carnitine for weight loss, you can also include food sources rich in this compound to achieve your fitness goals. Conversely, LC supplementation in obese rats was shown to restore carnitine levels and improve metabolic function . Recently, it has been demonstrated that L-carnitine supplementation can improve insulin resistance and glucose disposal in insulin-resistant humans and rats 33–35. Furthermore, our results suggest that increased WHR during the period was reversed by L-carnitine supplementation. Free fatty acid (FFA) levels were determined enzymatically using a NEFA test kit (Sekisui Medical Co., LTD, Tokyo, Japan). The secondary endpoint included changes in glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, blood pressure, lipid profiles, uric acid, free fatty acids, hepatic profile, and the sensation of fatigue and hunger. To ensure your well-being when consuming weight loss supplements, the ACTIVE.com editorial team prioritizes products that are independently tested by a third party.All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners.To maintain metabolic flexibility, mitochondria need substrates, oxygen, and cofactors for energy production.The association between LC supplementation and the regulation of metabolic pathways involved in muscle protein balance have been shown in several animal studies (Fig. 2) 30–35.In line with our findings; A systematic review study conducted by Maleki et al. showed that L-carnitine supplementation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOs) improves glycemic status and reduces insulin resistance (101) which can be due to the increase in basal metabolic rate and lean body mass, as well as weight loss and improvement of related indices (102, 103).Carnitine in particular can cause nausea and other unwanted side effects if it’s not used properly.Data extraction included authors, year, sample characteristics, comparison and control groups, physical performance or rehabilitation outcomes, periodic assessments and follow-up, and outcomes identified after supplementation.If that describes you fairly well then l-carnitine looks like a winner. Human studies are inconsistent, but we must exercise caution when determining dosage. Though harmless, it is unpleasant and may make many people avoid this supplement. Like any other supplement, L-carnitine is not without risks. Though more research is needed, these added benefits make L-carnitine a worthwhile supplement to watch. For individuals who feel tired or hungry during a workout, adding L-carnitine may provide the energy boost needed to stay consistent. The structural analog choline did not improve the contraction force of the muscle. During this training period, the percentage of type I muscle fibers increased from 23 ±3 to 69±16 percent (Dubelaar et al., 1991). The effect of L-carnitine on the contractile force was less pronounced in animals in which the latissimus dorsi was conditioned for 12 weeks. L-Carnitine appeared to improve the force of this muscle by 34 percent while the muscle was stimulated in situ. Both the work output and the were significantly increased by carnitine pretreatment (Vecchiet et al., 1990). This supplement not only includes L-Carnitine, but also other natural compounds that help control glucose metabolism and improve the overall health of the animal. Glyco from Dr+Vet by Andersenpets is a supplement specifically designed to aid in weight loss for dogs and cats, L-Carnitine is one of the main ingredients. For cats or dogs suffering from obesity, L-Carnitine becomes a key supplement to safely reduce body fat. L-Carnitine promotes the fatty acid oxidation process, which means it can improve metabolic efficiency and help burn stored fat. This is where L-Carnitine, a natural supplement derived from the amino acids lysine and methionine, can play an important role. Currently the clinical significance of modest TMAO increases from supplements remains unresolved. Exercise increases muscle demand for substrates and can improve insulin sensitivity, both of which help muscle cells take up and use carnitine. One non‑prescription option gaining attention is Motus, an oral supplement from Tonum that is positioned by its makers as research‑driven for fat loss and metabolic support. For fat‑loss goals, L‑carnitine L‑tartrate is best supported by the evidence. That’s why, in practical terms, people who want to prioritize fat loss tend to choose products labeled with this ester and dose accordingly. A study published in the journal “Nutrition & Metabolism” found that people who took L-carnitine for 12 weeks lost more weight than those who did not take L-carnitine. It has been shown that carnitine supplementation reduces oxidative stress in diabetic patients (Malaguarnera et al., 2009). Different dosages of carnitine, different types of carnitine as well as the use of only carnitine or carnitine combined with other supplements, heterogeneity in design of studies, and differences in populations involved in studies are some of the possible reasons that may explain different results. In a trial by Bae et al. (2015), carnitine supplementation resulted with a significant decrease in fasting glucose, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR score. A recurring research discussion concerns the conversion of carnitine to trimethylamine N‑oxide (TMAO) by certain gut microbes. If you are focused on cognition or neuropathy, ALCAR earlier in the day may be preferable. Propionyl‑L‑carnitine — used in clinical settings, especially vascular and circulation research, with different dosing patterns. So if your aim is long‑term endurance improvements or a subtle shift in how your body uses fuel, plan for daily doses with meals — especially carbohydrate‑rich meals — over several months. Importantly, carnitine was co‑ingested with a carbohydrate source to cause a modest insulin spike. A 4-ounce beef steak has an estimated 56 mg to 162 mg of carnitine. Carnitine can be found in many animal products, with red meat having the highest levels. Most of it is derived from the heart, skeletal muscle, liver, and kidneys. Many of you however are probably looking for a supplement that can consistently help you lose weight in the form of fat mass, boost your energy levels, increase your power output and improve your physique. In fact, regardless of the 1989 study observations that single doses improved performance across the board, later studies have reliably shown that it requires chronic supplementation to work. In basic terms, increased muscle carnitine content can increase fat metabolism during low intensity exercise and prevent fat mass storage during carbohydrate caloric surplus.