Product Review

L-Carnitine is a nitrogen-containing compound derived from L-Lysine. The carnitine molecule is necessary for the proper movement of fat molecules into the mitochondria for oxidation (fat burning). It seems to be beneficial for individuals suffering from a large array of maladies, including anorexia, chronic fatigue, coronary vascular disease, diphtheria, hypoglycemia, male infertility, muscular myopathies, Rett syndrome, as well as preterm infants, dialysis patients, and HIV+ individuals. L-Carnitine also seems to be very useful for age-associated cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer's. A controversial supplement for many years, its effect on exercise performance has not been established. Animal studies suggest a nitrogen sparing effect of L-Carnitine during fasting, but a study of humans undergoing a calorically restrictive diet and exercise program found no effect. However, individuals with impaired muscle performance (possibly suggestive of deficiency) may benefit from L-Carnitine supplementation. A study by Pistone et al. found that older individuals with highly fatigable muscles increased muscle mass, lost body fat, improved muscular performance and their blood lipid profiles simply by supplementing with L-Carnitine.