Health Benefits of Carnitine

Overview

L-Carnitine is a metabolite produced in the kidneys and liver. Metabolites are by products of a person’s  metabolic processes. L-Carnitine is stored easily in the heart, brain and skeletal muscles. Because of its ability to be stored in tissues for later use, it is not considered to be an essential vitamin that needs to be obtained through the diet.

Many consider L-Carnitine to be an amino acid, but it’s not. It also cannot be classified as a vitamin. Even though it is similar to both amino acids and vitamins, the differences are substantial enough for it to be grouped with other metabolites. In it’s role as a metabolite, L-Carnitine offers several health benefits. It is essential for growth in infants and is used as a supplement for muscle and tissue growth in bodybuilders, according to Bodybuilding.com. One of the most important functions of L-Carnitine its ability to break down fat and convert it into energy for the body.

Fitness

L-Carnitine creates usable fuel by pulling fat from various areas of the body and breaking it down. People who are trying to lose weight or add muscle, look for products that contain L-Carnitine. There has been little research to substantiate these claims, but due to its ability to metabolize fat, it is often taken in supplement form. L-Carnitine is also a main ingredient in many energy drinks.

Circulation

Studies have shown that propionyl L-Carnitine can reduce cramping and leg pain caused by peripheral vascular disease or PVD. Atherosclerosis can cause poor circulation that causes pain during movement, such as walking and other types of exercise.

Neuropathy

Along with the decrease in blood flow, neuropathy can also become a problem. Without adequate nourishment from the blood, nerves can become damaged. Lack of oxygen can also affect the nerves, leading to pain and inflammation. There are studies available that state L-Carnitine may aid in the regeneration of damaged nerves and the restoration of feeling to affected areas.

Heart Health/Cardiovascular Support

The majority of research performed concerning L-Carnitine has to do with heart health and cardiovascular disease. People who suffer from angina may experience a reduction in their symptoms when L-Carnitine is included with other conventional methods of treatment. It may also relieve chest pain caused by exercise.

Taking L-Carnitine shortly after a heart attack may reduce the risk of a second attack in the future, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Heart health is a serious matter. Never try to treat a heart condition without medical supervision. Always consult a physician before taking any supplement or trying an alternative therapy.