Carnitine (L-Carnitine) Supplementation

[MCWTRAINER]

Overview

Carnitine is a nutrient responsible for the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the energy-producing centers of the cells (known as the mitochondria). In other words, carnitine helps the body convert fatty acids into energy, which is used primarily for muscular activities throughout the body. The body produces carnitine in the liver and kidneys and stores it in the skeletal muscles, heart, brain, and sperm.

Some people have dietary deficiencies of carnitine or cannot properly absorb this nutrient from foods that they eat. Carnitine deficiencies may be caused by genetic disorders, liver or kidney problems, high-fat diets, certain medications, and low dietary levels of the amino acids lysine and methionine (substances needed to make carnitine). Carnitine deficiencies may cause symptoms such as fatigue, chest pain, muscle pain, weakness, low blood pressure, and/or confusion. A healthcare provider may recommend use of the supplement levocarnitine (L-carnitine) for individuals who have a suspected or confirmed deficiency of this nutrient.


Uses

In addition to helping those with carnitine deficiencies, L-carnitine supplementation may benefit individuals with the following conditions:

Heart Disease: Studies suggest that people who take L-carnitine supplements soon after suffering a heart attack may be less likely to suffer a subsequent heart attack, die of heart disease, experience chest pain and abnormal heart rhythms, or develop congestive heart failure. (Congestive heart failure is a condition that leads to a back up of blood into the lungs and legs because the heart loses its ability to pump blood efficiently).

In addition, people with coronary artery disease who use L-carnitine along with standard medications may be able to sustain physical activity for longer periods of time.

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): In addition to reducing one's chances of developing heart failure after a heart attack, some studies suggest that carnitine may help treat CHF once it has set in. These studies have shown that carnitine may improve exercise capacity in people with CHF.

High Cholesterol: In several studies, people who took L-carnitine supplements had a significant lowering of their total cholesterol and triglycerides, and an increase in their HDL ("good") cholesterol levels.

Intermittent Claudication: Decreased blood flow to the legs from atherosclerosis (plaque build up) often causes an aching or cramping pain in the legs while walking or exercising. This pain is called intermittent claudication and the diminished blood flow to the legs is called peripheral vascular disease (PVD). At least one well-designed study suggests that carnitine supplements may improve muscle function and exercise capacity in those with PVD. In other words, people with PVD may be able to walk farther and longer if they take carnitine, particularly proprinylcarnitine.

Athletic Performance: Carnitine, in theory, is thought to be helpful for improving exercise performance. However, studies in healthy athletes have not yet proven this theory.

Weight Loss: Although L-carnitine has been marketed as a weight loss supplement, there is no scientific evidence to date to show that it improves weight loss. A recent study of moderately overweight women found that L-carnitine did not significantly alter body weight, body fat, or lean body mass. Based on the results of this one small study, claims that L-carnitine helps reduce weight are not supported at this time.

Eating Disorders: Several studies suggest that amino acid levels, including carnitine, are diminished in people with anorexia nervosa. Some experts believe that low levels of carnitine contribute to muscle weakness frequently seen in people with this eating disorder. However, one study of severely underweight women with anorexia found that carnitine supplements did not raise levels of this amino acid in the blood nor did it improve muscle weakness. If you have anorexia, your doctor will decide if you need amino acid replacement or not.

Alcohol-related Liver Disease: Some researchers speculate that alcohol consumption reduces the ability of carnitine to function properly in the body. This can lead to a buildup of fat in the liver. Supplementation with carnitine has been shown to prevent and reverse the damage caused by alcohol-induced fatty buildup in the liver of animals.

Dementia and Memory Impairment: Some studies have shown that L-acetylcarnitine (LAC), a form of L-carnitine that readily enters the brain, may delay the progression of Alzheimer's disease, relieve depression related to senility and other forms of dementia, and improve memory in the elderly. Unfortunately, however, results from other studies have been conflicting. For example, one trial suggests that this supplement may help prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease in its early stages, but it may worsen symptoms in later stages of the disease. For this reason, carnitine for Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia should only be used under the direction and supervision of your physician.

Down's Syndrome: In a study of individuals with Down syndrome, L-acetylcarnitine (LAC) supplementation significantly improved visual memory and attention.

Kidney Disease and Hemodialysis: Given that the kidney is a major site of carnitine production, damage to this organ can cause a significant carnitine deficiency. Many patients undergoing hemodialysis also experience carnitine deficiencies. For these reasons, individuals with kidney disease (with or without the need for hemodialysis) may benefit from carnitine supplementation, if recommended by a healthcare provider.

Male Infertility: Low sperm counts have been linked to low carnitine levels in men. Several studies suggest that L-carnitine supplementation may increase sperm count and mobility.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): Some researchers speculate that chronic fatigue syndrome may be caused by deficiencies in a variety of nutrients, including carnitine. L-carnitine has been compared to a medication for fatigue in a study of 30 people with CFS. Those who took L-carnitine did much better than those who took the medication, particularly after receiving the supplement for 4 to 8 weeks.

Shock: Carnitine (administered intravenously in the hospital) may be helpful in treating shock from loss of blood, a sizeable heart attack, or a severe infection of the bloodstream known as sepsis. In one study, acetyl-L-carnitine helped improve the condition of 115 people with septic, cardiac, or traumatic shock.

Shock is a failure of the circulatory system and is a life-threatening medical emergency. Its key feature is inadequate blood flow to vital organs in the body. Therefore, if carnitine were used for this condition, it would, again, be administered in the hospital along with many other essential conventional therapies.

Peyronie's Disease: Peyronie's disease is characterized by a curvature of the penis that leads to scar tissue development and pain during an erection because of blocked blood flow. A recent study compared acetyl-L-carnitine to a medication in 48 men with this unusual condition. Acetyl-L-carnitine worked better than the medication at reducing pain during intercourse and minimizing the curve of the penis. Acetyl-L-carnitine also had fewer side effects than the medication. This study is very encouraging and warrants more scientific testing.

Hyperthyroidism: Some research suggests that L-carnitine may prove useful for preventing or diminishing the symptoms associated with an overactive thyroid. These symptoms include insomnia, nervousness, elevated heart rate, and tremors. In fact, in one study, a small group of people with hyperthyroidism had improvement in these symptoms, as well as normalization of their body temperature, when taking carnitine.


Dietary Sources

Red meat (particularly lamb) and dairy products are the primary sources of carnitine. Carnitine can also be found in fish, poultry, tempeh (fermented soybeans), wheat, asparagus, avocados, and peanut butter. Cereals, fruits, and vegetables contain little or no carnitine.


Available Forms

Carnitine is available as a supplement in a variety of forms, but only the form L-carnitine (alone or bound to either acetic or propionic acid) is recommended.

• L-carnitine (LC): the most widely available and least expensive
• L-acetylcarnitine (LAC): this form of carnitine appears to be the one to use for Alzheimer's disease and other brain disorders
• L-propionylcarnitine (LPC): this form of carnitine appears to be most effective for chest pain and related heart problems, as well as peripheral vascular disease (PVD).

D-carnitine supplements should be avoided as they interfere with the natural form of L-carnitine and may produce undesirable side effects.

Under certain medical conditions, L-carnitine is administered as a prescription from a healthcare provider or given intravenously in a hospital setting (such as in the case of shock as described in the Uses section).

[MCWTRAINER]

How to Take It

A typical daily diet contains anywhere from 5 to 100 mg of carnitine, depending upon whether the diet is primarily plant-based or red meat-based.

Pediatric

If laboratory tests reveal that a child has an amino acid imbalance requiring treatment, a healthcare provider may recommend a complete amino acid supplement containing carnitine. For children on valproate for epilepsy, which can lead to a deficiency of carnitine (see Interactions section), the doctor will likely prescribe a dose of 100 mg/kg of body weight per day, not to exceed 2,000 mg per day.

Adult

Recommended doses of L-carnitine supplements vary depending on the health condition being treated. The following list provides guidelines for some of the most common uses, based largely on doses used in studies for these conditions:

• Fat metabolism (conversion of fat to energy) and muscular performance: 1,000 to 2,000 mg usually divided into two doses
• Heart disease: 600 to 1,200 mg three times daily, or 750 mg twice daily
• Alcohol-related carnitine deficiency: 300 mg three times daily
• Male infertility: 300 to 1,000 mg three times daily
• Chronic fatigue syndrome: 500 to 1,000 mg three to four times per day
• Overactive thyroid: 2,000 to 4,000 mg per day in two to four divided doses

Precautions

• Because supplements may have side effects or interact with medications, they should be taken only under the supervision of a knowledgeable healthcare provider.
• Although L-carnitine does not appear to cause significant side effects, high doses (5 or more grams per day) may cause diarrhea. Other rare side effects include increased appetite, body odor, and rash.
• D-carnitine supplements should be avoided as they interfere with the natural form of L-carnitine and may produce undesirable side effects.
• Individuals taking L-carnitine as a sports supplement to improve fat metabolism and muscular performance should stop using it at least for one week each month.

Possible Interactions

If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use carnitine without first talking to your healthcare provider.

AZT: In a laboratory study, L-carnitine supplements protected muscle tissue against toxic side effects from treatment with AZT, a medication used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Additional studies are needed to confirm whether L-carnitine would also have this effect in people.

Doxorubicin: Treatment with L-carnitine may protect heart cells against the toxic side effects of doxorubicin, a medication used to treat cancer, without reducing the effectiveness of this chemotherapy agent.

Isotretinoin: Isotretinoin, a strong medication used for severe acne, can cause abnormalities in liver function, measured by a blood test, as well as elevations in cholesterol and muscle pain and weakness. These symptoms are similar to those seen with carnitine deficiency. Researchers in Greece showed that a large group of people who had side effects from isotretinoin got better when taking L-carnitine compared to those who took a placebo.

Valproic Acid: The anticonvulsant medication valproic acid may lower blood levels of carnitine and can cause carnitine deficiency. Taking L-carnitine supplements may prevent deficiency and may also reduce the side effects of valproic acid.


Supporting Research

Arsenian, MA. Carnitine and its derivatives in cardiovascular disease. Progr Cardiovasc Dis. 1997;40:3:265-286.

Benvenga S, Ruggieri RM, Russo A, Lapa D, Campenni A, Trimarchi F. Usefulness of L-carnitine, a naturally occurring peripheral antagonist of thyroid hormone action, in iatrogenic hyperthyroidism: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2001;86(8):3579-3594.

Biagiotti G, Cavallini G. Acetyl-L-carnitine vs tamoxifen in the oral therapy of Peyronie's disease: a preliminary report. BJU Int. 2001;88(1):63-67.

Brass EP, Hiatt WR. The role of carnitine and carnitine supplementation during exercise in man and in individuals with special needs. J Am Coll Nutr. 1998;17:207-215.

Bowman B. Acetyl-carnitine and Alzheimer's disease. Nutr Reviews. 1992;50:142-144.

Carta A, Calvani M, Bravi D. Acetyl-L-carnitine and Alzheimer's disease. Pharmacologic considerations beyond the cholinergic sphere. Ann NY Acad Sci. 1993;695:324-326.

Chung S, Cho J, Hyun T, et al. Alterations in the carnitine metabolism in epileptic children treated with valproic acid. J Korean Med Soc. 1997;12:553-558.

Corbucci GG, Loche F. L-carnitine in cardiogenic shock therapy: pharmacodynamic aspects and clinical data. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res. 1993;13(2):87-91.

Costa M, Canale D, Filicori M. L-carnitine in idiopathic asthenozoospermia: a multicenter study. Andrologia. 1994;26:155-159.

De Falco FA, D'Angelo E, Grimaldi G. Effect of the chronic treatment with L-acetylcarnitine in Down's syndrome. Clin Ter. 1994;144:123-127.

De Vivo DC, Bohan TP, Coulter DL, et al. L-Carnitine supplementation in childhood epilepsy: current perspectives. Epilepsia. 1998;39:1216-1225.

Dyck DJ. Dietary fat intake, supplements, and weight loss. Can J Appl Physiol. 2000;25(6):495-523.

Elisaf M, Bairaaktari E, Katopodis K, et al. Effect of L-carnitine supplementation on lipid parameters in hemodialysis patients. Am J Nephrol. 1998;18:416-421.

Fugh-Berman A. Herbs and dietary supplements in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Prev Cardiology. 2000;3:24-32.

Gasparetto A, Corbucci GG, De Blasi RA, et al. Influence of acetyl-L-carnitine infusion on haemodynamic parameters and survival of circulatory-shock patients. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res. 1991;11(2):83-92.

Georgala S, Schulpis KH, Georgala C, Michas T. L-carnitine supplementation in patients with cystic acne on isotretinoin therapy. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 1999;13(3):205-209.

Hiatt WR, Regensteiner JG, Creager MA, Hirsch AT, Cooke JP, Olin JW, et al. Propionyl-L-carnitine improves exercise performance and functional status in patients with claudication. Am J Med. 2001;110(8):616-622.

Iliceto S, Scrutinio D, Bruzzi P, et al. Effects of L-carnitine administration on left ventricular remodeling after acute anterior myocardial infarction: the L-carnitine Ecocardiografia Digitalizzata Infarto Miocardico (CEDIM) trial. JACC. 1995;26(2):380-387.

Kelly GS. L-Carnitine: therapeutic applications of a conditionally-essential amino acid. Alt Med Rev. 1998;3:345-60.

Kendler BS. Recent nutritional approaches to the prevention and therapy of cardiovasular disease. Prog Cardiovasc Nurs. 1997;12(3):3-23.

Loster H, Miehe K, Punzel M, Stiller O, Pankau H, Schauer J. Prolonged oral L-carnitine substitution increases bicycle ergometer performance in patients with severe, ischemically induced cardiac insufficiency. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther. 1999;13:537-546.

Morton J, McLaughlin DM, Whiting S, Russell GF. Carnitine levels in patients with skeletal myopathy due to anorexia nervosa before and after refeeding. Int J Eat Disord. 1999;26(3):341-344.

Moyano D, Vilaseca MA, Artuch R, Lambruschini N. Plasma amino acids in anorexia nervosa. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1998;52(9):684-689.

Ott BR, Owens NJ. Complementary and alternative medicines for Alzheimer's disease. J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol. 1998;11:163-173.

Pettegrew JW, Levine J, McClure RJ. Acetyl-L-carnitine physical-chemical, metabolic, and therapeutic properties: relevance for its mode of action in Alzheimer's disease and geriatric depression. Mol Psychiatry. 2000;5:616-632.

Pizzorno JE, Murray MT, eds. Textbook of Natural Medicine. Vol 1. 2nd ed. Churchill Livingstone; 1999:462-466.

Newstrom H: Nutrients Catalog. Jefferson, NC: McFarland & Co., Inc.; 1993:103-105.

Plioplys AV, Plioplys S. Amantadine and L-carnitine treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome. Neuropsychobiology. 1997;35(1):16-23.

Sachan DA, Rhew TH. Lipotropic effect of carnitine on alcohol-induced hepatic stenosis. Nutr Rep Int. 1983;27:1221-1226.

Sachan DS, Rhew TH, Ruark RA. Ameliorating effects of carnitine and its precursors on alcohol-induced fatty liver. Am J Clin Nutr. 1984;39:738-744.

Shils ME, Olson JA, Shike M, Ross AC. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 9th ed. Baltimore, Md: Williams & Wilkins; 1999: 90-92; 1377-1378.

Sinclair S. Male infertility: nutritional and environmental considerations. Alt Med Rev. 2000;5(1):28-38.

Singh RB, Niaz MA, Agarwal P, Beegum R, Rastogi SS, Sachan DS. A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of L-carnitine in suspected acute myocardial infaction. Postgrad Med. 1996;72:45-50.

Sum CF, Winocour PH, Agius L, et al. Does oral L-carnitine alter plasma triglyceride levels in hypertriglyceridemic subjects with or without non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Diabetes Nutr Metab Clin Exp. 1992;5:175-181.

Thal LJ, Carta A, Clarke WR, et al. A 1-year multicenter placebo-controlled study of acetyl-L-carnitine in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Neurology. 1996;47:705-711.

[MCWTRAINER]

Van Wouwe JP. Carnitine deficiency during valproic acid treatment. Int J Vit Nutr Res. 1995;65:211-214.

Villani RG, Gannon J, Self M, Rich PA. L-carnitine supplementation combined with aerobic training does not promote weight loss in moderately obese women. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2000;10:199-207.

Vitali G, Parente R, Melotti C. Carnitine supplementation in human idiopathic asthenospermia: clinical results. Drugs Exp Clin Res. 1995;21(4):157-159.

Werbach MR. Nutritional strategies for treating chronic fatigue syndrome. Altern Med Rev. 2000;5(2):93-108.

Winter BK, Fiskum G, Gallo LL. Effects of L-carnitine on serum triglyceride and cytokine levels in rat models of cachexia and septic shock. Br J Cancer. 1995;72(5):1173-1179.

Witt KK, Clark AL, Cleland JG. Chronic heart failure and micronutrients. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2001;37(7):1765-1774.

[391rippy]

though l-carnitine is usually written off as being useless for bodybuilding and fitness purposes, this study makes me think that it could be usefull preworkout when taken with ala and creatine.

Age-associated deficit of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation in skeletal muscle: role of carnitine and lipoic acid.

Kumaran S, Panneerselvam KS, Shila S, Sivarajan K, Panneerselvam C.

Department of Medical Biochemistry, Dr. AL Mudaliar Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Chennai, India.

Mitochondrial damage has implicated a major contributor for ageing process. In the present study, we measured mitochondrial membrane swelling, mitochondrial respiration (state 3 and 4) by using oxygen electrode in skeletal muscle of young (3-4 months old) and aged rats (above 24 months old) with supplementation of L: -carnitine and DL: -alpha-lipoic acid. Our results shows that the mitochondrial membrane swelling and state 4 respiration were increased more in skeletal muscle mitochondria of aged rats than in young control rats, whereas the state 3 respiration, respiratory control ratio (RCR) and ADP:O ratio decreased more in aged rats than in young rats. After supplementation of carnitine and lipoic acid to aged rats for 30 days, the state 3 respiration and RCR were increased, whereas the state 4 and mitochondrial membrane swelling were decreased to near normal rats. From our results, we conclude that combined supplementation of carnitine and lipoic acids to aged rats increases the skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiration, thereby increasing the level of ATP.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/q...=pubmed_DocSum

[naturalguy]

I use Carnitine precontest. 3 grams about 45 minutes before cardio.

[pu12en12g]

though l-carnitine is usually written off as being useless for bodybuilding and fitness purposes, this study makes me think that it could be usefull preworkout when taken with ala and creatine.....

....and much more. More info coming soon... I'll probably post it in here. For now I'm recommending that all Controlled Labs Red Acid and GlycerGrow users pick up some Carnitine or ALCAR ASAP. It's illegal in canada which is part of why it wasn't initially added to our formulas.

Great thread as usual. MCW !

[niddrie brick]

i use acetyl l carnitine 40 mins pre workout along with choline and caffein and i find it helps alot with cardio and my usual workout

[NumberTwentyTwo]

I use Carnitine precontest. 3 grams about 45 minutes before cardio.

3g

i use 1.8g when i dont much much sleep

i havnt noticed improved effects when increasing the dosages to 2.4 or 3g

[gaberox]

3g

i use 1.8g when i dont much much sleep

i havnt noticed improved effects when increasing the dosages to 2.4 or 3g

I take 3g alcar along with 200mg r-ala biotin and creatine.Seems to work wonders honestly.

[naturalguy]

3g

i use 1.8g when i dont much much sleep

i havnt noticed improved effects when increasing the dosages to 2.4 or 3g

Yes, 3 grams, only precontest, only before cardio. Any less doesn't seem to have a fat burning effect and more was not any more effective.

[Moreps]

Charles Poliquin takes 7 grams of ALCAR upon awakening and says it does wonders to increase test levels. I might try this with my next cycle of Diesel Test.

[gaberox]

Charles Poliquin takes 7 grams of ALCAR upon awakening and says it does wonders to increase test levels. I might try this with my next cycle of Diesel Test.

I have read somewhere that alcar can increase the number of androgen receptors.

[Moreps]

I have read somewhere that alcar can increase the number of androgen receptors.

I have read this study also. That's why I'm thinking of stacking a test booster with ALCAR. Seems very intertesting indeed.

[cuponoodles]

Carnitine is one of the best things in the world to take for heart health. Everybody over 40 should be taking it regardless of fitness level.

[jdiritto]

Charles Poliquin takes 7 grams of ALCAR upon awakening and says it does wonders to increase test levels. I might try this with my next cycle of Diesel Test.

Chuck Norris met the creator of ALCAR and asked him to rename it ALL-NORRIS; when the man refused he was instantly roundhouse kicked to the ground curtsey yours truly (chuck norris).

[knightowl]

....and much more. More info coming soon... I'll probably post it in here. For now I'm recommending that all Controlled Labs Red Acid and GlycerGrow users pick up some Carnitine or ALCAR ASAP. It's illegal in canada which is part of why it wasn't initially added to our formulas.

Great thread as usual. MCW !

Just a question why only GG and Red acid users ? why not everyone else , unless you are referring to ppl who are trying to cut ? i just bought GG i am not cutting but yes i would definitely like to lose some fat,
also do you know why it is illegal in Canada ? canada is weird even vitamin K is banned here ! i can't even buy now adam multivitamin here !!

[HalleluYAH]

Here is an excellent article on the subject for those interested...

Oxidation of fatty acids occurs in the mitochondria. The transport of fatty acyl-CoA into the mitochondria is accomplished via an acyl-carnitine intermediate, which itself is generated by the action of carnitine acyltransferase I, an enzyme that resides in the outer mitochondrial membrane. The acyl-carnitine molecule then is transported into the mitochondria where carnitine acyltransferase II catalyzes the regeneration of the fatty acyl-CoA molecule....

Clinical Significance of Fatty Acids

The majority of clinical problems related to fatty acid metabolism are associated with processes of oxidation.
These disorders fall into four main groups:

1. Deficiencies in Carnitine: Deficiencies in carnitine lead to an inability to transport fatty acids into the mitochondria for oxidation. This can occur in newborns and particularly in pre-term infants. Carnitine deficiencies also are found in patients undergoing hemodialysis or exhibiting organic aciduria. Carnitine deficiencies may manifest systemic symptomology or may be limited to only muscles. Symptoms can range from mild occasional muscle cramping to severe weakness or even death. Treatment is by oral carnitine administration.

[jdiritto]

Carnitine, or ALCaR...which is better for supplementation? pros/cons of each? been wonderin for awhile.. thanks

[pu12en12g]

Carnitine, or ALCaR...which is better for supplementation? pros/cons of each? been wonderin for awhile.. thanks

Depends on the scenario...start with L-Carnitine.

In some scenarios it's probably not even worth supplementing... in other scenarios it's probably critical.

[pu12en12g]

Just a question why only GG and Red acid users ? why not everyone else , unless you are referring to ppl who are trying to cut ? i just bought GG i am not cutting but yes i would definitely like to lose some fat,

Hope this helps for now:
http://forum.bodybuilding.com/showpo...3&postcount=20

[Bane]

OBJECTIVES: To To compare testosterone undecanoate versus propionyl-L-carnitine plus acetyl-L-carnitine and placebo in the treatment of male aging symptoms. METHODS: A total of 120 patients were randomized into three groups. The mean patient age was 66 years (range 60 to 74). Group 1 was given testosterone undecanoate 160 mg/day, the second group was given propionyl-L-carnitine 2 g/day plus acetyl-L-carnitine 2 g/day. The third group was given a placebo (starch). Drugs and placebo were given for 6 months. The assessed variables were total prostate-specific antigen, prostate volume, peak systolic velocity, end-diastolic velocity, resistive index of cavernosal penile arteries, nocturnal penile tumescence, total and free testosterone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone, International Index of Erectile Function score, Depression Melancholia Scale score, fatigue scale score, and incidence of side effects. The assessment was performed at intervals before, during, and after therapy. RESULTS: Testosterone and carnitines significantly improved the peak systolic velocity, end-diastolic velocity, resistive index, nocturnal penile tumescence, International Index of Erectile Function score, Depression Melancholia Scale score, and fatigue scale score. Carnitines proved significantly more active than testosterone in improving nocturnal penile tumescence and International Index of Erectile Function score. Testosterone significantly increased the prostate volume and free and total testosterone levels and significantly lowered serum luteinizing hormone; carnitines did not. No drug significantly modified prostate-specific antigen or prolactin. Carnitines and testosterone proved effective for as long as they were administered, with suspension provoking a reversal to baseline values. Only the group 1 prostate volume proved significantly greater than baseline 6 months after testosterone suspension. Placebo administration proved ineffective. Negligible side effects emerged. CONCLUSIONS: Testosterone and, especially, carnitines proved to be active drugs for the therapy of symptoms associated with male aging.

[HalleluYAH]

Here is a study you may be interested in...

The effect of l-carnitine on fat oxidation, protein turnover, and body composition in slightly overweight subjects.

Wutzke KD, Lorenz H.

University of Rostock, Children's Hospital, Research Laboratory, Germany.

We used a combined tracer technique with the stable isotopes 13C and 15N to gain further insight into the metabolic changes that accompany supplementation of L-carnitine. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether L-carnitine supplementation can influence fat oxidation, protein turnover, body composition, and weight development in slightly overweight subjects. Twelve volunteers received an individual regular diet either without or with L-carnitine supplementation of 3 g/d for 10 days. Protein turnover and fat oxidation were investigated after administration of [15N]glycine and an [U-13C]algae lipid mixture. The 15N- and 13C-enrichment in urine and breath were measured by isotope ratio mass spectrometry. Body fat mass (BFM), total body water (TBW), and lean body mass (LBM) were calculated by using bioelectric impedance analysis. L-carnitine supplementation led to a significant increase in 13C-fat oxidation (15.8% v 19.3%; P = .021) whereas protein synthesis and breakdown rates (3.7 and 3.4 g/kg/d, respectively) remained unchanged, indicating that the increased dietary fat oxidation in slightly overweight subjects was not accompanied by protein catabolism. Copyright 2004 Elsevier Inc.

[Bane]

Yes, in fatty acid oxidation. Not in true weight loss. I can easily post 3-4 studies that showed carnitine administration had no effect in fat loss whatsoever

Edit:
L-carnitine supplementation does not promote weight loss in ovariectomized rats despite endurance exercise.
Melton, S A; Keenan, M J; Stanciu, C E; Hegsted, M; Zablah-Pimentel, E M; O'Neil, C E; Gaynor, P; Schaffhauser, A; Owen, K; Prisby, R D; LaMotte, L L; Fernandez, J M
International journal for vitamin and nutrition research. Internationale Zeitschrift fur Vitamin- und Ernahrungsforschung. Journal international de vitaminologie et de nutrition, 2005 Mar, 75(2):156-60
... and that there would be an additive effect of L-C on weight reduction in swim-trained animals. As expected, serum carnitine was higher in rats fed the L-C diet, and the OVX-induced weight gain and abdominal fat were counteracted ...

L-carnitine.
The Medical letter on drugs and therapeutics, 2004 Nov 22, 46(1196):95-6
Although advertised on the Internet for weight loss, prevention of aging and enhancement of athletic and sexual performance, levocarnitine has only one well-established indication, and that is for treatment of carnitine deficiency.

Carnitine supplementation fails to maximize fat mass loss induced by endurance training in rats.
Saldanha Aoki, Marcelo; Rodriguez Amaral Almeida, André Luís; Navarro, Francisco; Bicudo Pereira Costa-Rosa, Luís Fernando; Pereira Bacurau, Reury Frank
Annals of nutrition & metabolism, 2004, 48(2):90-4. Epub: 2004 Feb 25
... carnitine supplementation could maximize fat mass loss in trained rats. METHODS: Male Wistar rats (200 g) were divided into four groups: control (C), sedentary supplemented (S), trained (T) and trained supplemented (TS). The training protocol ...

Dietary supplements and functional food for weight reduction -- expectations and reality]
Hahn, A; Ströhle, A; Wolters, M
MMW Fortschritte der Medizin, 2003 Oct 16, 145(42):40-5
... actually is a scientific rationale all have minor weight-reducing effects, so that they must be considered to have at most an adjuvant role within the framework of evidence-based concepts for losing weight. Examples of alleged ...

Title Effect of L-carnitine on weight loss and body composition of rats fed a hypocaloric diet.

Author Brandsch, Corinna; Eder, Klaus

Affiliation Institute of Nutritional Sciences, University of Halle, Germany.

Source Annals of nutrition & metabolism, 2002, 46(5):205-10

ISSN 0250-6807




Descriptors Animals Blood Glucose: analysis *Body Composition: drug effects *Caloric Restriction *Carnitine: administration & dosage Carnitine: blood Cholesterol: blood Dietary Supplements Fatty Acids: blood Male Rats Rats, Sprague-Dawley Time Factors Triglycerides: blood *Weight Loss: drug effects

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Abstract BACKGROUND/AIMS: Several studies have been published in recent years which suggest that L-carnitine supplementation can influence the lipid metabolism in some species and can also affect body composition of growing animals. Only few results are available so far on the effect of L-carnitine supplementation on weight reduction and body composition of animals fed an energy-deficient diet. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate whether L-carnitine supplementation combined with an energy-deficient diet can influence weight development and body composition. METHODS: An experiment was conducted with 36 rats with an initial body weight of about 460 g. One-third of the rats were killed, the remainder were divided into two groups (control group, treated group) and fed a semi synthetic diet at an energy level of about half of the rats' maintenance requirement. The basal diet was essentially carnitine-free. The diet of the treated group was supplemented with L-carnitine (5 g/kg). The feeding period extended over 23 days. Experimental parameters were weight loss, composition of carcass and weights of the fat pads surrounding the kidneys, intestine and testes; several clinico-chemical plasma parameters were also determined. RESULTS: As was to be expected, the rats lost a considerable amount of weight on the energy-reduced diet. At the same time a shift occurred in the ratio of fat to protein in favour of protein in the carcass, leading to a marked reduction of body fat levels and a slight reduction of protein levels. There were, however, no significant differences between the control group and the treated group (with L-carnitine supplementation) with regard to any of these parameters. The clinico-chemical parameters measured in plasma (glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, free fatty acids, 3-hydroxybutyric acid) also showed no differences between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: The rat model used here did not show a positive effect of L-carnitine supplementation on weight loss and body composition of rats fed an energy-deficient diet. The animals' endogenous carnitine synthesis was obviously adequate to ensure efficient beta-oxidation of fatty acids during the catabolic phase. (Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel)

L-Carnitine supplementation combined with aerobic training does not promote weight loss in moderately obese women.
Villani, R G; Gannon, J; Self, M; Rich, P A
International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, 2000 Jun, 10(2):199-207
... into mitochondria for oxidation and is marketed as a weight loss supplement. In a double-blind investigation to test the weight loss efficacy of L-C, 36 moderately overweight premenopausal women were pair matched on Body

[HalleluYAH]

Yes, in fatty acid oxidation. Not in true weight loss. I can easily post 3-4 studies that showed carnitine administration had no effect in fat loss whatsoever

This may be more of a factor for those with carnitine defficiencies. More importantly, is carnitine is used to transport FFAs into the mitochondria for oxidation, and unless it is stacked with an FFAs mobilizer, then it would likely yeild not fat loss becuase the FFAs were never mobilized in the first place-making the carnitine of none effect.

[Bane]

This may be more of a factor for those with carnitine defficiencies. More importantly, is carnitine is used to transport FFAs into the mitochondria for oxidation, and unless it is stacked with an FFAs mobilizer, then it would likely yeild not fat loss becuase the FFAs were never mobilized in the first place-making the carnitine of none effect.

The only beneficial effect I have seen for carnitine in weight loss is in cases of excess lipid mobilization, it prevents lipid accumulation in the liver. Being carnitine deficient is not really propable unless you are a vegan.

[pu12en12g]

Yes, in fatty acid oxidation. Not in true weight loss. I can easily post 3-4 studies that showed carnitine administration had no effect in fat loss whatsoever

What do you want.. a cookie ?

[naturalguy]

Carnitine will help SLIGHTLY in fat loss when everything else is in place. Don't expect a lot of fat loss with it.

I have experimented a lot with it with myself and clients.

[pu12en12g]

The role of carnitine in normal and altered fatty acid metabolism.

Am J Kidney Dis. 2003 Apr;41(4 Suppl 4):S4-12.

Hoppel C.

Department of Medicine, Louis Stokes Cleveland Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA. clh5@po.cwru.edu

Carnitine is a low-molecular-weight compound obtained from the diet that also is biosynthesized from the essential amino acids lysine and methionine. Carnitine has been identified in a variety of mammalian tissues and has an obligate role in the mitochondrial oxidation of long-chain fatty acids through the action of specialized acyltransferases. Other roles for carnitine include buffering of the acyl coenzyme A (CoA)-CoA ratio, branched-chain amino acid metabolism, removal of excess acyl groups, and peroxi****l fatty acid oxidation. The growing body of evidence about carnitine function has led to increased understanding and identification of disorders associated with altered carnitine metabolism. Disorders of fatty acid oxidation and metabolism typically are associated with primary and secondary forms of carnitine deficiency. These disorders, which include increased lipolysis, increased lipid peroxidation, accumulation of acylcarnitines, and altered membrane permeability, have significant consequences for patients with myocardial diseases and kidney failure. Therapeutic administration of carnitine shows promise in treating selected groups of patients who have altered carnitine homeostasis, resulting in improved cardiac function, increased exercise capacity, reduced muscle cramps, and reduced intradialytic complications.

Note: This is posted for the benefit of those ADDING carnitine to their potent fatloss stack such as Red Acid / GlycerGrow.. NOT using carnitine as a standalone.

[HalleluYAH]

Note: This is posted for the benefit of those ADDING carnitine to their potent fatloss stack such as Red Acid / GlycerGrow.. NOT using carnitine as a standalone.

Exactly^^^

[KeyHAWK]

What do you want.. a cookie ?

LOL