L-Carnitine is a natural nutrient that plays an essential role in the body`s energy metabolism. It used to be known as vitamin BT. L-Carnitine transports fatty acids into the "furnaces" of the cell.
Only here can energy be generated from the fatty acids. Without L-Carnitine these fatty acids cannot get to the place of energy generation. L-Carnitine is important in supplying energy to many organs in the body, such as the heart, muscles, liver and immune cells.
L-Carnitine plays an essential role in the body for:
- producing energy from fat
- ensuring athletic endurance
- promoting recovery after exercise
- providing the heart and immune cells with energy
- preventing early onset of fatigue during exercise.
Where does L-Carnitine occur in the human body?
L-Carnitine occurs naturally in the
body, in total about 20-25 grams. Organs and cells with a high energy
requirement such as the heart, muscles, immune cells, brain, nerves and
sperm contain highest levels of L-Carnitine and cannot function properly without an adequate supply.
Our body is able to produce small quantities of L-Carnitine, if precursors (two essential amino acids, lysine and methionine) and cofactors (vitamins C, B3, B6 and iron) are readily available.
An inadequate supply of any of these nutrients restricts the body`s ability to produce L-Carnitine.
Where does L-Carnitine occur in our diet?
L-Carnitine is part of our daily diet. Red meat (e.g. lamb, venison and beef) is particularly rich in L-Carnitine. Fish, poultry, milk and breast milk contain smaller amounts, while foods of plant origin contain very little, if any, L-Carnitine. On average, we consume about 100-300 mg dietary L-Carnitine every day.
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