Without enough carnitine to move fatty acids to the right place, your body will eventually wear down, and you may feel drained and tired. The heart in particular is highly dependent on carnitine, and taking it in supplement form is currently being explored as an option for speeding recovery after a heart attack as well as for treating angina (chest pain), arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats), and congestive heart failure.
Carnitine plays a critical role in metabolizing a number of other important substances as well, which helps to explain why it holds promise for so many disorders.
Some studies indicate that carnitine may improve endurance in those weakened by disease, and boost an immune response in people who are HIV-infected.
A form of carnitine that is produced naturally in the brain--acetyl-L-carnitine, or ALC--is currently being studied in supplement form as a possible treatment for memory loss associated with aging and Alzheimer's disease.
Studies are conflicting regarding the effectiveness of carnitine for enhancing athletic performance by improving energy and fat metabolism. A positive effect appears most pronounced for endurance-related events, such as cycling and long distance running.
Carnitine supplements are particularly valuable for people with conditions that can interfere with its absorption, including various liver and kidney problems, metabolic stress, long-term alcohol use, and in some cases, a high-fat diet. So check with your doctor if you have any concerns. A simple urine test can determine if you have a carnitine deficiency.
On supplement labels, amino acids are often prefaced with the letter L or the letter D. Purchase only the L-carnitine form, since it most resembles the carnitine produced naturally by the body.
