L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative that plays a critical role in the body’s energy production. It functions primarily by transporting long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures within cells, where these fats are oxidized (“burned”) to produce ATP, the main energy currency of the cell. This process supports metabolism, especially in tissues that heavily rely on fatty acids for energy such as skeletal and cardiac muscles.

Appearance: White or almost white crystalline powder or colorless crystals with a slight characteristic fishy odor.

Solubility: Very soluble in water (~0.1 g/mL at 20 °C) forming clear, colorless solutions; soluble in ethanol and methanol; slightly soluble in acetone; practically insoluble in ether, benzene, chloroform, and ethyl acetate.

Melting Point:  197–212 °C 

L-Carnitine nutritional information depends on the form and serving size, but typical values per common supplement servings are as follows:

• Energy (Calories): About 3.5 to 12 kcal per serving, depending on form and volume (e.g., liquid or capsule).

• Protein: Usually negligible or very low (around 0 to 1.65 g per serving).

• Fat: 0 grams.

• Carbohydrates: Typically 0 grams.

• Added Sugars: 0 grams.

• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams.

• Sodium: 0 milligrams.

• L-Carnitine content: Can range from 800 mg (capsule) to 3000-3500 mg (liquid serving) per dose.

L-Carnitine benefits are broad and well-supported by scientific research. Key benefits include:

• Energy Production and Physical Performance: L-Carnitine plays a critical role in transporting long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. Supplementation can improve physical performance, reduce fatigue, and enhance muscle function, especially in people with metabolic issues or muscle weakness.

• Cardiovascular Health: It may protect heart cells, improve lipid metabolism, reduce symptoms of angina and ventricular arrhythmias, and support better heart function by modulating energy metabolism and reducing oxidative stress.

• Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: L-Carnitine has anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and neuroprotective properties, helping reduce oxidative damage and cellular stress, thus protecting tissues such as the brain, heart, and muscles.

• Metabolic Benefits: Supplementation has shown promise in improving insulin sensitivity, glucose utilization, and lipid profiles, which may help in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome management.

• Neuroprotection: Acetyl-L-carnitine, a form of L-carnitine, supports brain health by improving cognitive function and protecting neurons against damage, potentially beneficial in neurodegenerative diseases.

• Improved Quality of Life in Chronic Conditions: L-Carnitine helps reduce fatigue and improve sleep quality in cancer patients and other chronic diseases, and may improve symptoms in muscle disorders, peripheral artery disease, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

• Potential Anticancer Effects: It may support metabolic functions in cancer cachexia (weight loss associated with cancer) and help protect liver and kidney functions during chemotherapy.

• Support for Muscle Recovery and Neuropathy: Studies have shown L-Carnitine can improve recovery after muscle injury and reduce chemotherapy-induced neuropathy symptoms.