L-carnitine update

With summer quickly approaching most of us are scrambling to drop those last few pounds that accumulated over winter. Although dieting and caloric restriction are key to achieving a toned physique, it can also make losing fat difficult—leaving you hungry and fatigued. 

A study published in the Nutrition Journal recently reported that supplemental l-carnitine blunts hunger and fatigue induced by extreme caloric restriction, resulting in greater weight loss. In this randomized and blinded control trial metabolic syndrome subjects who received l-carnitine (4 g/day intravenous) during a 7 day diet intervention lost over 3 lbs more than those in the placebo group. These results were coupled with measures of better insulin regulation and decreased feelings of hunger and fatigue during fasting in the carnitine group. 

ACTION POINT: This latest study provides another scientific reason to use l-carnitine supplements for help with weight loss. Although they used intravenous delivery of l-carnitine in this study, several other investigations show that special forms of l-carntine like acetyl-l-carnitine (ALCAR) or l-carnitine l-tartrate (LCLT) have high oral bioavailability. We recommend taking 2-3 grams of ALCAR or LCLT, 2 to 3 times daily between meals. On training days, take 1 dose post-workout with a protein shake or meal.