l-Carnitine
is a health supplement with a most interesting composition and history. This supplement was discovered in the very early 1900’s (originally isolated from meat extraction) while all other chemical and physiological aspects remained elusive for decades. Eventually this substance became known as Vitamin B4 and continued research revealed that it was essential in the breakdown of fats into energy.
The therapeutic benefits of this substance covers a wide range of medical conditions that include, heart disease, diabetes, chronic fatigue, muscle fatigue, immune deficiency syndrome and circulatory complications.
If you have an athletic club membership, you may have heard talk of this supplements ability to allow for a longer workout periods. But while I have personally experienced less fatigue during workouts when taking this supplement, I know of no research or report that will back my personal experience with factual evidence.
Carnitine is available in 3 forms. L-carnitine, which affects the muscles L-acerylcarnitine, which affects brain functions and memory and L-propinonylcarnitine, which affects the brain as well as the heart.
There are studies indicating that this amino acid may help in reducing
cholesterol,
triglycerides and even provide comfort from pain stemming from
atherosclerosis
of the legs. Further, additional studies show benefits in areas such as treatment for nerve damage, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, emphysema, and those patients undergoing dialysis.
Those patients that are on kidney dialysis may want to investigate this product even further. This particular health supplement has the distinction of being a frequently prescribed item by some natural health physicians. There are a number of medications that cause deficiencies due to reduced levels of this nutrient in the body.
The greatest source of this nutrient is meat and dairy products so those whose food intake is low or absent of these products may already suffer from a deficiency. Vegetarian dieters should pay close attention.
Functions in the body:
· Helps to convert fat into energy
· Improves both short and long term memory
· Improves focus
· Lowers (LDL) bad cholesterol
· Raises (HDL) good cholesterol
· Improves respiratory functions and oxygen intake