Acetyl L-Carnitine

Amino acids are important nutrients central to many activities in the body. They are the building blocks of all protein. Carnitine is a non-essential amino acid (meaning the body can produce it independently). The kidney produces carnitine from the amino acids lysine and methionine along with iron and vitamins B6, C and niacin. Carnitine is needed for the body to convert fatty acids to energy in the cell providing energy for muscular activity. Although carnitine is a non-essential amino acid, deficiency can result from liver or kidney problems, high-fat diets and some medications resulting in fatigue, chest pain, muscle pain and general weakness.

Carnitine may prove beneficial in several different conditions. Since the highest concentrations are in the heart, it is believed especially important for support a healthy heart. In general because of the heart muscle’s need for significant amounts of energy, carnitine appears to help the heart function better in general. Angina is a heart pain caused by decrease in oxygen. In studies carnitine reduced symptoms. Follow up use of carnitine after a heart attack may support improved heart health.

In studies, carnitine reduced the number of second heart attacks, the likelihood of dying from heart disease, and chest pain. Participants also were less likely to experience abnormal heart rhythm or congestive heart failure. In individuals who already had congestive heart failure carnitine resulted in improved exercise capacity.

Intermittent claudication is a condition causing pain in the legs due to reduction in blood flow usually because of atherosclerosis. Studies indicate carnitine may improve exercise capacity and muscle function. Chronic fatigue syndrome manifests itself as severe fatigue, muscle pain, and depression. Regular use of a carnitine supplement may help alleviate symptoms possibly due to its ability to contribute to energy production.