(also referred to as...)
BT Factor, Vitamin BT, L-3-Hydroxy-4(Trimethylammonium)Butyrate
Description
Carnitine is not strictly an amino acid, as it is related to the B-Complex vitamins. It can exist in two forms: D- and L- isomers. Isomers are compounds with the same chemical make up but, molecularly, are "mirror images" of each other. Only the L- isomer, L-carnitine, is found in nature and has a biological effect. The D- form is biologically inactive.
Carnitine is present in every cell in the body. It transports long-chain fatty acids to the mitochondria of cells, which carry out energy production. Once carnitine reaches its destination, it unloads its fatty acid payload so they can be "burned" and converted to energy. Carnitine thus promotes the utilization of fat as a source of energy by sparing muscle and liver glycogen. It prolongs exercise time, prevents muscle fatigue, increases muscle mass and helps burn fat. It also aids in overall weight loss.
Carnitine can be manufactured by the body if appropriate amounts of vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), iron, and the amino acids lysine and methionine are present. Carnitine also enhances the effectiveness of two antioxidant vitamins: C and E.
Carnitine also helps lower cholesterol and metabolize fatty acids in the liver.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Carnitine can help prevent or alleviate a number of conditions, including: AIDS, Alzheimer's disease, angina, cardiovascular disease, congestive heart failure, decreased sperm motility, diabetes, heart conditions (such as arrhythmia), high cholesterol, hypoglycemia, kidney disease, liver disease, low sperm count, muscular dystrophy, poor physical performance, and senile depression.
If weight loss is a personal goal, carnitine's inherent properties make it the ideal amino acid to add to your weight loss strategy. Carnitine prevents fat molecules from being stored in the body by facilitating its metabolism.
Source
Meat is the primary source of Carnitine.
L-carnitine is also available in a multi-amino acid complex and protein powder supplements. Depending on the country in which you live, carnitine may also be available as an isolated supplement in capsule or tablet form. You may require a prescription.
Optimal Absorption
The most absorbable form of Carnitine is L-Carnitine, which is the most natural source. If supplementing, the recommended dosage is 500mg daily. You can increase up to 1,000mg daily.
Chromium tends to complement the actions of carnitine.
A diet low in carbohydrates and high in protein and Essential Fatty Acids will also support carnitine.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
A number of studies show that L-carnitine is safe and there are no significant side effects.
Vegetarians are likely to be deficient in carnitine as it is primarily obtained from meat. To ensure adequate production of carnitine, take supplements or eat grains, such as cornmeal, that have been fortified with L-lysine.
It is not recommended to take a single amino acid for an extended period of time without supplementing with other amino acids as well. Long-term isolated amino acid supplementation can create an imbalance in the body.
Ailment / Situation Listing
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consult with their naturopath or other health practitioner before undertaking additional regime for their ailment.
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