PureBulk

Supplement Facts Volumetrics Certificate of Analysis

What is L-Carnitine?

L-carnitine is an amino acid that helps the body turn fat into energy. It is synthesized in the body from the essential amino acids lysine and methionine.

Carnitine is manufactured in the liver and kidneys and stored in the skeletal muscles, heart, brain and sperm.

Carnitine is studied widely because of the critical role it plays in fatty acid oxidation and energy production. L-carnitine helps transport fatty acids into the mitochondria in cells so that these “power plants” can transform the acids to energy. A high concentration of carnitine in the heart is not surprising. The heart relies on fatty acids for the fuel it needs to pump blood throughout the body.

The name carnitine originates from the Latin "carnus" or flesh, as this substance was first isolated from meat. Carnitine is the generic term for several compounds that include L-carnitine, L-acetylcarnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine, and L-propionyl carnitine. The only analogs available are L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine.

D-carnitine, which is not biologically active (L-carnitine is the only biological active form), can compete with the L-isomer, potentially increasing the risk of L-carnitine deficiency. Because of this, D-carnitine supplements are never recommended or used as they can interfere with the natural form of L-carnitine and may produce undesirable side effects.

Carnitine is called a conditionally essential nutrient because under certain conditions the body may need more than it can synthesize. Carnitine can only be manufactured by the body if sufficient amounts of iron, vitamin B1, vitamin C, niacin, vitamin B6, lysine, and methionine are present and available. Carnitine also improves the effectiveness of vitamin C and vitamin E, which are both powerful antioxidants.

Technically, carnitine acts as the catalyst and mediator to make the transport of medium/long-chain fatty acids across mitochondrial membranes possible, facilitating subsequent energy production. Additionally, it aids the transport and disposal of intermediate toxic compounds out of the mitochondria, thus preventing their accumulation.

The richest sources of L-carnitine include foods of animal origin like meat, poultry, fish and dairy products. Fruits, vegetables and grains only have small amounts of L-carnitine.

Usually, the body can make all the carnitine it requires. However, some people may be deficient in carnitine because their bodies cannot make enough, or cannot transport it into tissues where it can be used. There are a few individuals who may have hereditary conditions such as systemic carnitine deficiency and myopathic carnitine deficiency that keep them from absorbing L-carnitine. Intravenous L-carnitine is available under the guidance of a physician.

Acetyl-L-carnitine, ALC, or ALCAR, is available without a prescription as a nutritional supplement. Aside from providing L-carnitine, it provides acetyl groups that help produce the important neurotransmitter, acetylcholine.

Health Benefits of L-Carnitine

One of the key functions of L-carnitine supplementation is for fatty acid oxidation, which can help users burn body fat. Fatty acids are among the primary energy sources the body uses and oxidation is the process by which they're broken down to create energy. The fatty acids cannot penetrate the inner mitochondria membrane (where they are burned for energy), and the key role for L-carnitine is to transport fatty acids across the mitochondria membrane to allow for oxidation of the fats.

Purity and Concentration of L-Carnitine

Purebulk's pharmaceutical-grade amino acid L-carnitine base contains no fillers, taste additives or anti-caking agents. The term "base" merely means this is the basic form, or free form, of this amino acid and there are no added molecular groups.

Suggested Use of L-Carnitine

As a dietary supplement, take 500 milligrams one to four times per day (or as directed by physician.) Since 1/8 teaspoon is equal to 389 milligrams, a well rounded 1/8 tsp will provide about the suggested serving of 500 milligrams. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for L-carnitine here. Individual preferences vary up to 3000 milligrams or more per day. One level teaspoon will supply approximately 3112 milligrams, or just about 3 grams. More than 5 grams per day is not recommended due to possible side effects.

Potential Side Effects of L-Carnitine

This dietary supplement is generally considered safe and well-tolerated at suggested serving sizes. Possible but rare side effects include body odor (a fish-like smell) and rash. Mild nausea, abdominal cramps and diarrhea may occur from consuming 5 or more grams per day. Those suffering from any medical condition such as chronic fatigue, cardiac problems or thyroid conditions should consult a physician. Persons being treated with AZT, Doxorubicin, Isotretinoin, and Valproic Acid or any prescription medications should consult a physician before using any L-carnitine supplements.

Bioavailability, Mixing and Solubility of L-Carnitine

This product dissolves quickly in water and has a very mild taste. The taste is somewhat sweet with just a tiny tinge of bitter taste. Mix with water or juice.

For increased energy L-carnitine can be taken synergistically with Coenzyme Q10 and D-Ribose. As a fat-burning supplement L-Carnitine can be taken synergistically with GABA and CLA.

How should I store it?

You will receive a resealable bag of this powder. Store in a cool, dry area protected from light. Reseal after each use.

References & Further Research

Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health: Carnitine


University of Maryland Medical Center: Carnitine

NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates herbal and other dietary supplements differently than conventional medicines. The standards for supplements are found in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), a federal law that defines dietary supplements and sets product-label­ing standards and health claim limits. To learn more about DSHEA, visit the FDA Web site.