L carnitine is widely consumed by body builders and athletes. The L-carnitine fad started about 20 years ago and some believe that it is a magical supplement. L-carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid which is essential for the metabolism of fat. It also functions as a transporter of fatty acids into the mitochondria. Fats are essential for energy for many tissues in the body. For organs to survive, fats have to be transported across the membranes and this is supported by l carnitine.
Physiology
In experimental studies L carnitine has been shown to stimulate burning of fats as fuel and spares glycogen. It is felt that this selective action of L-carnitine may provide endurance and stamina.
L carnitine is normally synthesized in the liver and kidney from a combination of two other amino acids- lysine and methionine. The majority of L- carnitine is found in the muscle tissues. L-carnitine is also available from ingestions of foods like red meat and dairy products. Despite the wide spread belief that L- carnitine deficiency is common, this is extremely rare in real life.
Some rare individuals may develop deficiency of carnitine because they 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 deficiency may cause symptoms such as fatigue, chest pain, muscle pain, weakness, low blood pressure, and/or confusion. Despite some reports, carnitine deficiency is extremely rare and requires laboratory testing for confirmation. When low levels are suspected, the amino acid is best obtained from foods, rather than tablets.
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