L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine is a non-essential amino acid found naturally in the body and has been suggested to improve the metabolism and transportation of free fatty acids from where they are stored as subcutaneous or visceral fat, to where they are burned within the mitochondria of the muscle. In essence, L-Carnitine is known as a metaboliser but also offers other benefits in the reduction of oxidative stress and improved endurance capacity.

During a phase of dieting where food consumption is reduced or in particular cases whereby someone is following a vegetarian diet, is undergoing certain types of surgery or is otherwise going through a phase of systemic stress (total body stress), naturally occurring L-Carnitine levels can be diminished. As a result of this, metabolism can become less efficient, oxidative stress may rise and a reduction in performance can occur.

By increasing either your dietary or supplementary L-Carnitine consumption, the risk for oxidative stress is reduced, metabolism can increase and overall cognitive function may be improved but ensuring adequate amounts of circulating Carnitine are available.

L-Carnitine can be consumed naturally via dietary food sources such as red meats, dairy and in less of a concentrated amount in nuts, greens and a whole host of nutritionally dense foods. After ingestion L-Carnitine either converts to Acetyl L-Carnitine or Propionyl-L-Carnitine, which allows a multitude of functions to occur, including but not limited to an increase in cognitive function, as well as improved peripheral blood flow, aerobic capacity and has anti-oxidant properties as well.

So whether you are looking to use a supplement that can assist in the production of energy, want to support the health and function of your brain, improve muscular performance and support the use of stored fat for fuel, L-Carnitine is a great additional supplement to your daily regime.