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L-carnitine is similar to carnitine, a nonessential amino
acid. L-carnitine performs a few of the same functions as
carnitine such as aiding in the metabolizing of food to energy.
L-carnitine is synthesized in the body from certain amino
acids. It is found naturally in dairy products and red meat.
While the main purpose of L-carnitine is converting food into
energy, it can also be used for other purposes. These include
burning fat, improving muscle fatigue resistance and increasing
energy. It is also believed but not medically verified that
L-carnitine can fight muscle, liver and kidney disease. It
has been shown to help treat some forms of cardiovascular
disease. L-carnitine is also a good assist for dieting because
it will reduce hunger pains and weakness.
One of the other notable effects of L-carnitine is the possibility for slowing the effects of aging. There
have been studies done on rats that were given L-carnitine
and it slowed aging in them. It will undoubtedly be some
time until those effects are confirmed in humans but it
is something to keep in mind.
Since the 1930s studies have been performed on the various
properties of L-carnitine. They have shown that its intake
can greatly benefit the body's cardiovascular system.
There are several studies that show that L-carnitine can
be useful in improving heart function and increasing output
in addition to improving cardiac performance. As a treatment
for heart disease and low energy levels, the FDA approved
L-carnitine under the name Carnitor.
If you are deficient in amino acids or protein you could
benefit from a L-carnitine supplement. It is fairly uncommon
to be deficient but there are some groups of people that
have a higher risk of being so. |
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| Vegetarians, children and women who are
breast feeding all run an increased risk of being deficient.
People who eat very little meat in general could benefit
from taking a supplement. There are some tell-tale signs
of possible L-carnitine deficiency. Muscle fatigue, cramps,
muscle pain, premature aging are all signs. |
There are very few side effects. The most common ones include
increased blood pressure, faster heartbeats, and fever. If
take L-carnitine is take in large quantities diarrhea may
occur.
The general dosage for L-carnitine is between two and four
grams about one hour before exercise. The supplement usually
comes in 250mg and 500 mg capsules.
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