A&A Pharmachem Carnitine – Types, benefits & usage
Carnitine or L- Carnitine Base is a form of Amino Acid and is used a dietary supplement. Carnitine is usually produced by the body out of amino acids Lysine and Methionine. It can be also obtained in small amount from food sources like meat and fish. There is a growing trend of supplementation of L-Carnitine products by consumers with lifestyle choices like vegan diets, body building etc.
Contract manufacturers market Carnitine products offering benefits like sports performance, muscle recovery, fat loss, enhanced brain function, better heart function. Brands may market dietary supplements to vegan or vegetarian consumers who do not get Carnitine from food sources and older adult consumers whose carnitine levels decline over age.
Some types of Carnitine are:
• Acetyl-L-carnitine HCL (CAS# 5080-50-2): Acetyl-L Carnitine HCL is essentially an amino acid containing acetate and L-Carnitine. The acetylated version of the supplement has a slightly different range of benefits and it is believed to be better than L-Carnitine in terms of bioavailability. Acetyl-L Carnitine is mainly used for benefiting brain function. Studies suggest that it may benefit people with neurodegenerative diseases.
• L-carnitine L-Tartrate (CAS# 36687-82-8): L-Carnitine Tartrate is commonly added to sports supplements as it has a fast absorption rate. Some of the benefits suggested are aiding muscle soreness, recovery in exercise and fat loss. Contract manufacturers use it in sports supplements that aid in energy production and exercise performance.
• Propionyl-L-Carnitine HCL (CAS# 20064-19-1): This form of Carnitine is beneficial for circulatory issues, such as peripheral vascular disease and high blood pressure. It is suggested that Carnitine improves blood flow as it boosts production of nitric oxide.
Acetyl-L-carnitine HCL (CAS# 5080-50-2) and L-carnitine L-tartrate (CAS# 36687-82-8) are most commonly used in dietary supplements.
Long term or larger supplementation of Carnitine has shown mild benefits according to some studies. It takes a longer period of time to show benefits of usage. This is different from other supplements like caffeine or creatine which delivers a faster and direct enhancement of sports performance.
Some of the benefits suggested for L- Carnitine supplementation are
• Recovery
• Muscle oxygen supply
• Stamina and reduction in fatigue due to nitric oxide production
• Muscle soreness
• Red blood cell production which transport oxygen throughout your body and muscles.
Carnitine can be also obtained for food sources and has a greater absorption rate than supplements. The best sources of L-Carnitine are Beef, Pork, Fish, Chicken, and Milk. A healthy individual can also produce sufficient amounts within the body.
Dosage Recommendations
The suggested standard dose of L-carnitine is 500–2,000 mg per day. The suggested dosage can vary according to different studies. Below is an overview of the use and dose for each form:
• Acetyl-L-Carnitine: This form is best for brain health and function. Doses vary from 600–2,500 mg per day.
• L-carnitine L-Tartrate: This form is most effective for exercise performance. Doses vary from 1,000–4,000 mg per day.
• Propionyl-L-Carnitine: This form is best for improving blood flow in those with high blood pressure or related health conditions. Doses vary from 400–1,000 mg per day.
The safe and effective dosage for long term us is Up to 2,000 mg (2 grams) per day.