L-Carnitine is a vitamin-like molecule that serves numerous functions
in the body. Its main function is to stimulate the breakdown of fats.
L-Carnitine is an alpha-hydroxy acid that is primarily located in the
muscle. Carnitine is the critical player for the transport of fatty
acids into mitochondria. Mitochondria are the powerhouses that produce
energy in the cell that the body needs to function properly. The energy
is produced when fats are burned in the mitochondria. Since
mitochondria need oxygen to burn fat, it follows that supplementation
with carnitine ensures adequate supply of oxygen to the muscle. The
supply of oxygen becomes extremely important when one exercises.
Intense exercise for longer periods of time on a regular basis results
in the loss of carnitine. Therefore, carnitine must be replaced in
order for the muscle to remain toned and healthy.
It should be noted that the muscle needs a regular supply of carnitine
in sufficient amounts to remain toned and healthy over the long haul.
Also, it should be taken for some time before its beneficial effects
apparent. On the average, about 10 to 14 days of carnitine
supplementation should suffice to keep the muscle supplied with this
nutrient that is central to muscle function.
L-Carnitine functions in conjunction with pantothenic acid (vitamin
B5). Panthothenic acid is converted to its active form panetheine in
the body, which is the fundamental component of coenzyme A (coA).
Coenzyme A is involved in the transport of fatty acids into the
mitochondria and also to and from cells. Thus, panethenic acid lowers
cholesterol and triglycerides levels.
Panthethenic acid inhibits cholesterol synthesis and accelerates fatty
acid breakdown in the mitochondria, while simultaneously increasing the
"good" (HDL) cholesterol. Its lipid-lowering effects are impressive,
and combined with its virtually non-existent side effects makes it a
viable alternative to conventional lipid-lowering drugs.
Supplement FactsServing size 1 tablespoon (15ml)
Servings per container 24
Amount per serving % Daily ValuePantothenic acid 10 mg 100%
L-Carnitine, (U.S.P.) 1000 mg *
* Daily Value not established
Directions: As a dietary supplement, take one to two tablespoons daily.
Other Ingredients: Purified water, natural vegetable glycerin, methylparaben and
propylparaben.
Note: Above statistics based on liquid form