L-Carnitine for Weight Loss: Basics

In a nutshell, L-Carnitine is a naturally occuring chemical compound which plays a vital role in metabolizing fat. It is an amino acid which functions as a transporter of fatty acids into the mitochondria, which are a cell's metabolic furnace. L-carnitine is found in bulk in red meat, dairy products, avocadoes, pork and a soy product called tempeh. It is found in lesser amounts in nuts, seeds, various vegetables, cereals, chicken and cod fish.
Science has shown that an adequate supply of L-carnitine in the body is necessary for good health. L-carnitine aids in the release of stored body fat - called tryglycerides - into the bloodstream for energy. It is also critical to muscle contraction, regulating protein balance and a healthy heart. Research also suggests that L-carnitine could play a role in treating diabetes, kidney and liver disease, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

But back to what is has to do with weight loss....given its chemical relationship to the breakdown of fats in the body, L-carnitine has long been studied as a stand-alone weight loss aid, and it is an ingredient in literally hundreds of over the counter "herbal" diet pills and supplements. Save your money. To date, no scientific evidence exists to support the claims that adding L-Carnitine supplements to your diet aids weight or fat loss in any way.

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