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L-Carnitine
 
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L-Carnitine

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Health information provided by Aisle7

Related Topics

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L-carnitine is made in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine, and is needed to release energy from fat. It transports fatty acids into mitochondria, the powerhouses of cells. In infancy, and in situations of high energy needs, such as pregnancy and breast-feeding, the need for L-carnitine can exceed production by the body. Therefore, L-carnitine is considered a "conditionally essential" nutrient.1

How to Use It

Most people do not need carnitine supplements. For therapeutic use, typical amounts are 1–3 grams per day.

It remains unclear whether the propionyl-L-carnitine form of carnitine used in congestive heart failure research has greater benefits than the L-carnitine form, since limited research in both animals and humans with the more common L-carnitine has also shown very promising effects.2

Where to Find It

Dairy and red meat contain the greatest amounts of carnitine. Therefore, people who have a limited intake of meat and dairy products tend to have lower L-carnitine intakes.

Possible Deficiencies

Carnitine deficiencies are rare, even in strict vegetarians, because the body produces carnitine relatively easily.

Rare genetic diseases can cause a carnitine deficiency. Also, deficiencies are occasionally associated with other diseases, such as diabetes and cirrhosis.3, 4 Among people with diabetes, carnitine deficiency is more likely to be found in persons experiencing complications of diabetes (such as retinopathy, hyperlipidemia, or neuropathy), suggesting that carnitine deficiency may play a role in the development of these complications.5 A carnitine deficiency can also result from oxygen deprivation which can occur in some heart conditions. In Italy, L-carnitine is prescribed for heart failure, heart arrhythmias, angina, and lack of oxygen to the heart.6

Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds

The body needs lysine, methionine, vitamin C, iron, niacin, and vitamin B6 to produce carnitine.

Interactions with Medicines

Certain medicines interact with this supplement.

May Be Beneficial:Some medicines may increase the need for this supplement.
Avoid:Some medicines interact with this supplement, so they should not be taken together.
Check:Some interactions between this supplement and certain medicines require more explanation. Click the link to see details.

May Be Beneficial:AZT
May Be Beneficial:Carbamazepine
May Be Beneficial:Doxorubicin
May Be Beneficial:Felbamate
May Be Beneficial:Interferon Alfa-2a
May Be Beneficial:Interferon Alfa-2B
May Be Beneficial:Interferon Alfacon-1
May Be Beneficial:Levetiracetam
May Be Beneficial:Oxcarbazepine
May Be Beneficial:Peginterferon Alfa-2a
May Be Beneficial:Peginterferon Alfa-2b
May Be Beneficial:Phenytoin
May Be Beneficial:Primidone
May Be Beneficial:Ribavirin
May Be Beneficial:Topiramate
May Be Beneficial:Zonisamide
Check:Allopurinol
Check:Gabapentin
Check:Phenobarbital
Check:Valproate

Side Effects

At the time of writing, there were no well-known side effects caused by this supplement.
References

Copyright © 2012 Aisle7. All rights reserved. Aisle7.com

Learn more about Aisle7, the company.

Learn more about the authors of Aisle7 products.

The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2013.

Important Walmart Disclaimer: All content, including but not limited to, recipe and health information provided in Healthy Living, is for educational purposes only. Such content is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. Such content does not cover all possible side effects of any new or different health program. Consult your medical professional for guidance before changing or undertaking a new diet or exercise program. Advance consultation with your physician is particularly important if you are under eighteen (18) years old, pregnant, nursing, or have health problems.
 
 
 

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