L-carnitine is a popular fitness supplement, but is it right for you? L-carnitine is mainly found in avocados, dairy products, and red meats (lamb and beef). It is also naturally made in the body from amino acids and used to increase the use of fat as an energy source by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria (located in the cytoplasm outside the nucleus of the cell), where they are burned to release energy for body functions.
L-carnitine supplementation should not be used by those who are allergic to any food protein (egg, milk, or wheat), risk of poor nutrition, pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, or other health risks or problems. First off, you should contact your physician about taking any supplements. If you do decide to use the L-carnitine supplement, it is recommended to take the supplement with a full glass of water or other liquid and with a meal or immediately after a meal. I strongly recommend researching this supplement as well as any other supplements before usage. Below are lists of the benefits and side-effects of L-carnitine.
Benefits of L-carnitine Supplementation
- Promotes natural growth and development
- MAY help build muscle
- MAY prevent forms of cardiovascular disease
- MAY help protect against liver disease
- MAY help protect against diabetes
- MAY help protect against kidney disease
- MAY help protect against muscle disease
- MAY reduce hunger pangs and weakness
- MAY increase energy
- MAY help reduce body fat
Side Effects of L-carnitine Supplementation
- MAY cause muscle fatigue
- MAY cause cramps
- MAY lower blood-sugar levels
- MAY cause problems with pregnancy