Carnitine & Weight Loss
Carnitine (also known as L-Carnitine) is a compound that is biosynthesized from amino acids. It is considered a pseudo amino acid. Carnitine assists in turning fat into energy as it transports fatty acids to be turned into energy. It is also in foods such as red meat, dairy and avocados. Carnitine is often used as a dietary supplement to aid in weight loss.
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The Facts
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Carnitine is produced by the kidneys and liver. It lives in various parts of the body, including sperm, heart and muscles. Carnitine has been used to treat conditions such as heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, erectile dysfunction, hyperthyroidism and chronic fatigue syndrome.
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Uses
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Carnitine is a supplement that is often used to aid in weight loss. In addition, it's used as a supplement to enhance exercise performance. Increasing exercise performance and endurance can assist in weight loss as well. Clayton South, an expert in the body building industry, states that Carnitine does help build muscle, and it can also be an appetite suppressant.
Effectiveness
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There are mixed results on whether or not Carnitine is effective for weight loss. In 2002, a study conducted at the Institute of Nutritional Sciences in Germany found that Carnitine did not result in greater weight loss.
Alternately, Carnitine is a supplement that bodybuilders and fitness athletes take as part of their program. Bodybuilders and fitness athletes often supplement heavily with Carnitine before a competition because it aids in cutting fat and allows the muscles to be showcased. In addition, they use it to boost energy levels to complete grueling workouts.
Dosage
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Although the jury is still out as to whether or not Carnitine is helpful in terms of weight loss, it's still worth trying because it's not harmful to the body in most instances. The dosage that is recommended for weight loss is 1,000 to 2,000 mg per day. It's best to divide the doses up among meals. Fitness professionals often take twice this amount for optimal performance. However, that is not recommended for the general population.
Warning
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People who suffer from diabetes, kidney disease, hypertension and liver disease should not take this supplement without first speaking to a doctor.
Carnitine may interact with medications such as Accutane, AZT and valproic acid. Do not take this supplement without first gaining the approval of a doctor.
Carnitine supplements may also cause diarrhea, rash or body odor.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of D'Arcy Norman
