L-carnitine is a supplement that could help you lose weight because it is an amino acid that works to transport fat from the body to the cells’ mitochondria, which is the place where fat is broken down and transformed into energy.
Furthermore, L-carnitine can also increase energy, improving performance and endurance during physical activities and thus helping with weight loss.
However, current research on the use of L-carnitine for weight loss is still inconclusive and, therefore, more studies are needed to prove the benefits of this supplement for weight loss.
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How L-carnitine could lose weight
L-carnitine could help you lose weight by acting in the transport of fat cells from the body to the mitochondria, which is the place where fat is broken down and transformed into energy.
Furthermore, L-carnitine can also increase energy, improving performance and resistance during physical exercise and thus promoting weight loss.
However, the most recent studies on L-carnitine supplementation for weight loss are still inconclusive, therefore, more research is needed to prove the benefits of this supplement for weight loss.
How to drink
L-carnitine is available in the form of capsules, powder or liquid, with a dose of 50mg to 2g per day being generally recommended.
However, the dosage of L-carnitine varies depending on the objective and, therefore, the use of this supplement should preferably be done under the guidance of a doctor or nutritionist.
Possible side effects
In most cases, the use of L-carnitine does not cause side effects. However, using 3g of L-carnitine per day may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fishy breath and skin odor in some people.
Who cannot use
People who are underweight, have heart problems, or have a history of seizures should not use L-carnitine supplements.
Furthermore, pregnant or breastfeeding women should only use this supplement under the guidance of a doctor.
People who use medications such as anticoagulants and thyroid hormones should consult a doctor before using L-carnitine. This is because L-carnitine can alter the action of these medications.
Bibliography
- NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH. Fact Sheet for Health Professionals: Carnitine . Available at: <https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/carnitine-HealthProfessional/#h7>. Accessed on March 3, 2023
- SAWICKA, K, Angelika et al. The bright and the dark sides of L-carnitine supplementation: a systematic review. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. Vol.17. 49.ed; 1-10, 2020
- TALENEZHAD, Nasir et al. Effects of l-carnitine supplementation on weight loss and body composition: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 37 randomized controlled clinical trials with dose-response analysis. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN. Vol.37. 9-23, 2020