Spring is here, and for many that means an end to “fluffing season”. A switch is flipped, and suddenly weight loss supplements are back in vogue
When it comes to fat loss and slimming down the midsection, L-carnitine is an old go-to. But what exactly is it, and does it work?
Carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative the body can produce on its own via the essential amino acids lysine and methionine. It can also be found in small amounts in animal protein sources, particularly beef and fish
In its various forms carnitine has a number of functions, but when it comes to fat loss, its role in fatty acid oxidation is what makes it a popular choice for trimming that waistline. Carnitine helps shuttle your body’s stored fatty acids into your cells mitochondria, which then “unlock” that stored energy for use
So it’s burning up my stored body fat and making it go away then, right? Unfortunately, not quite. Research is mixed when it comes to how effective L-carnitine truly is for producing fat loss
However, that doesn’t mean L-carnitine is a total dud. By facilitating mitochondrial energy production, carnitine may provide a natural energy boost and can improve stamina during exercise. It may also increase red blood cell production and improve muscle oxygen supply, which could also increase stamina, while reducing soreness and recovery time
The acetylated form, known as acetyl-l-carnitine or ALCAR has a number of therapeutic benefits as well, particularly when it comes to the brain and liver. ALCAR may improve symptoms of depression and cognitive decline, and is also liver protective
L-carnitine may also aid in issues related to metabolic syndrome, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance.
It can be taken daily in doses ranging from 500-3000mg, but is well tolerated at higher doses as well
AND THAT’S WHAT SUPP
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