L-Carnitine for Hair Growth
L-carnitine is a naturally occurring substance, produced from amino acids, that already enjoys popularity as a health supplement, especially with bodybuilders. However, at least one recent major study shows it might be useful in promoting hair growth. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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L-carnitine is a naturally occurring compound in the body, which is synthesized by the amino acids lysine and methionine. It aids in the metabolism of fat for energy. It is found naturally in certain foods and is also popular in supplement form.
Theories/Speculation
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A few published, peer-reviewed studies have pointed towards L-carnitine as a supplement that might stimulate hair growth. The most recent major one was in 2007, in the journal Experimental Dermatology. It showed that in vitro, L-carnitine boosted growth by supplying more energy to the hair matrix. Another study that year, in the Journal of Dermatological Science, reached similar conclusions.
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Considerations
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The study in "Experimental Dermatology" was performed in vitro, not on an actual human. Much more practical testing must be done on humans before scientists can conclude whether or not the hair growth will be similarly stimulated.
Dosage
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Because practical application of L-carnitine for hair growth has not yet been scientifically proven, most dosage recommendations for this specific purpose are speculative. The University of Maryland Medical Center points out a common dosage is between 1 and 3 grams a day.
L-Carnitine Sources
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L-carnitine is found naturally in foods including red meat (particularly lamb and beef), dairy products, avocados, asparagus, peanut butter and tempeh. It can also be purchased at any popular vitamin or supplement store and ordered easily online.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit hair setup image by sumos from Fotolia.com
