L-Carnitine
An essential metabolite derived from the amino acids lysine and methionine. Carnitine is frequently added to weight loss supplements due to its critical role in beta-oxidation – the process of turning long-chain fatty acids into energy. Supplemental carnitine may or may not boost fat oxidation (the data is conflicting) – however it’s a moot point as weight loss supplements rarely provide more than just trace amounts, anyway.
Carnitine supplements may have some value, however, for general health and disease prevention. Carnitine (in the form of l-carnitine, acetyl-l-carnitine or propionyl-l-carnitine) may be beneficial for a range of conditions, including heart disease, male fertility and sexual health and age-related cognitive impairment.
See Paul’s article: “Carnitine Review: Does Carnitine Burn Fat?” for more information.
