PureBulk

Click to Enlarge Unit Weight: 1500 grams Unit Volume: 2580 cc Click to Enlarge Certificate of Analysis Click to Enlarge Volumetric Equivalents

What is L-Carnitine?

L-Carnitine is a very popular and remarkably effective weight loss supplement and fat burner. Clinical studies have repeatedly demonstrated that L-Carnitine supplementation also effectively reduces fatigue, increases energy and activity, and promotes cardiac health. Carnitine, or L-carnitine, is an amino acid synthesized in the body from the essential amino acids lysine and methionine. L-carnitine helps transport fatty acids into the mitochondria in cells so that these “power plants” can transform these acids to energy. The high concentration of carnitine in the heart is not surprising because the heart relies on fatty acids for the fuel it needs to pump blood throughout your entire body. The name carnitine originates from the Latin "carnus" or flesh, as this substance was first isolated from meat. Carnitine is the generic term for several compounds that include L-carnitine, L-acetylcarnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine, and L-propionyl carnitine. The only analogs available are L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine. D-carnitine, which is not biologically active (since L-carnitine is the only biological active form), can compete with the L-isomer potentially increasing the risk of L- carnitine deficiency. Because of this, D-carnitine supplements are never recommended or used as they can interfere with the natural form of L-carnitine and may produce undesirable side effects.

Carnitine is termed a conditionally essential nutrient, because under certain conditions the body’s needs may be more than the individual's capacity to synthesize it. Carnitine can only be manufactured by the body if sufficient amounts of iron, vitamin B1, vitamin C, niacin, vitamin B6, lysine, and methionine are present and available. Carnitine also improves the effectiveness of vitamin C and vitamin E, which are both powerful antioxidants. Technically, Carnitine acts as the catalyst and mediator to make the transport of medium/long-chain fatty acids across mitochondrial membranes possible, facilitating their oxidation with subsequent energy production. Additionally, it facilitates the transport and disposal of intermediate toxic compounds out of the mitochondria, thus preventing their accumulation. Because of these properties and functions, carnitine is present in high amounts in tissues that consume fatty acids as their primary fuel, which includes the skeletal and cardiac (heart) muscle.

The richest sources of L-carnitine include foods of animal origin, such as meat, poultry, fish and dairy products. Fruits, vegetables, and grains only have small amounts of L-carnitine, so vegetarians may want to supplement with this nutrient. In the same manner, when fed soy-based formulas, premature infants may be susceptible to L-carnitine deficiency, so look for formulas fortified with L-carnitine. Carnitine is studied widely because of the critical role it plays in fatty acid oxidation and energy production, and because it is a therapeutic agent which is generally safe at the same time well-tolerated and. There are few individuals who may have hereditary conditions such as systemic carnitine deficiency and myopathic carnitine deficiency that keep them from absorbing L-carnitine. For these sufferers, intravenous L-carnitine is available by prescription only.

In simpler terms, Carnitine is a nutrient that helps the body turn fat into energy. It is manufactured by the body in the liver and kidneys, and stored in the skeletal muscles, heart, brain, and sperm. Usually, the body can make all the carnitine it requires. However, some people may be deficient in carnitine because their bodies cannot make enough carnitine or transport it into tissues so it can be used. Health conditions, such as angina or intermittent claudication, can also cause deplete sufficient carnitine supplies in the body, as can some medications. Others wanting to supplement L-carnitine for its cardiovascular, cognitive, or anti-aging benefits have plenty of options to choose from. Acetyl-L-carnitine, ALC, or ALCAR, is available without a prescription as a nutritional supplement. Aside from providing L-carnitine, it provides acetyl groups that help produce the important neurotransmitter, acetylcholine.

NOTE: Acetyl-L-Carnitine products are different and are not seen on this page. Click here to check them out.

What is L-Carnitine used for and who uses it?

L-carnitine is largely known and used as a natural method for weight loss since it makes the burning of fat possible at much higher speeds. In the same manner, carnitine is used to improve heart health and in treating and managing angina, arrhythmias and other heart illnesses. It is also used by athletes to strengthen sports endurance. Increasing carnitine intake is the most natural way to lose weight, because carnitine picks up fat and puts it exactly in the part of the cell where it is burned as energy without causing any side effects. This is backed by scientific proof which demonstrated that increased levels of carnitine lead to increased fat loss. Carnitine also aids in increasing the metabolic rate without compromising muscle tissue. This is crucial, because muscle tissue is where most of the fat burning happens. Carnitine is also beneficial in eliminating cravings and increasing the amount of energy you have to exercise, both of which are very important factors to consider for those who need to lose weight.

One of the key functions of L-Carnitine supplement is for fatty acid oxidation, which in turn help users burn unwanted body fat. Fatty acids are among the primary energy sources the body uses and oxidation is the process by which they're broken down to create energy. The fatty acids cannot penetrate the inner mitochondria membrane (where they are burned for energy), and the key role for L-Carnitine is to transport fatty acids across the mitochondria membrane to allow for oxidation of the fats. Anyone serious on significantly lowering their body fat will want to ensure they have optimal levels of carnitine on a daily basis, because carnitine helps carry fat from fat cells to the mitochondria of muscle cells to be converted to energy. With respect to this, it is hard to imagine how a weight loss program could ever be effective with a deficiency of carnitine.

Carnitine is a great nutrient for diabetes prevention as well since poor fat metabolism is a causative factor for the development of diabetes. It is also beneficial for heart disease prevention because it effectively decreases triglycerides, strengthens organ muscles, and stimulates the antioxidant effectiveness of Vitamins C and E. Also, clinical studies show that damages to the heart caused by cardiac surgery can be reduced with carnitine treatments. Recent research has shown that high doses of carnitine ranging from 1,000- 3,000 mg. daily can dramatically reduce blood triglycerides. This is helpful because elevated triglycerides can make small vessels more susceptible to diseases, including poor circulation in the hands and feet as well as kidney problems.

How pure is your L-Carnitine?

This pharmaceutical grade amino acid L-Carnitine Base is assayed by the manufacturer to be 98.4% product (normal range 97.0% and up). The remaining 1.6% by weight are inactive byproducts of the extraction. The term "Base" merely means that this is the basic form, or free form, of this amino acid and there are no added molecular groups. It is just the purest form of the basic L-Carnitine amino acid with nothing else added. You will receive a sealed and labeled heavy-duty 4 mil polyethylene bag containing this white powder product, and it contains no fillers, taste additives, or anti-caking agents..

Current levels of high adipose tissue or body fat in the general population show a high level of carnitine deficiency. Interestingly, carnitine is not an "essential" nutrient because the body can manufacture it. But for the manufacturing process to even begin, it requires sufficient amounts of iron, Vitamin B1, B6, and C, and the amino acids lysine and methionine (neither of these amino acids is obtainable in sufficient amounts from vegetable sources). If any of those nutrients are at inadequate levels, this will result in carnitine deficiency so supplementation is absolutely essential, especially for vegetarians.

What are some of the common effects of L-Carnitine?

Although numerous studies have concluded L-carnitine supplementation can help the heart function more efficiently in those that have been diagnosed with heart disease, it is important to keep in perspective that subjects in these studies used L-carnitine together with their prescribed medications, not in place of them. Regardless, researchers as well as medical professionals believe in the ability of supplemental carnitine to help those with myocardial infarction, heart failure, angina pectoris, and any other diseases that result from an inadequate blood supply to the heart (ischemia). Some studies show that L-carnitine, aside from lowering blood triglycerides, also works to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol.

L-carnitine has been shown to ease the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), a disorder characterized by both extreme fatigue and depression. Researchers believe carnitine may help treat these disorders by boosting cellular energy production and improving overall brain function. Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC or ALCAR, which we also carry) is a form of carnitine required to produce acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter that helps the brain function properly, particularly where memory is concerned. Because ALC levels decline with age, it has been theorized that taking ALC supplements may help slow the progress of Alzheimer’s and dementia in the elderly by improving memory and cognitive ability.

There is also some research indicating that L-carnitine can make sperm more vital and active. L-carnitine is highly concentrated in the epididymis, where sperm is manufactured and stored in the body. Study subjects that consumed 3 grams of L-carnitine supplements daily for 3 to 4 months saw significant improvements in sperm mobility. Thus, L-carnitine may be an effective treatment for some cases of male infertility, although further studies are still needed to confirm this.

What is the daily suggested dose of L-Carnitine?

The typically recommended dose for L-Carnitine generally range between as little as 500 milligrams per day to as much as 3 grams or more per day, depending upon individual needs. Clinical studies, however, have consistently shown that the effective beneficial dose to be towards the higher ranges of these suggested doses. For most people 2 or 3 grams per day taken in two doses will be sufficient for beneficial results for either weight loss (fat burning) or increased energy (reducing fatigue symptoms). For bodybuilders and performance athletes, between two and four grams of L-carnitine should be taken one hour before exercise. One level teaspoon will supply approximately 3112 milligrams, or just about 3 grams for the bulk density of this L-Carnitine powder. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for L-Carnitine here.

As always, if you have concerns or questions, consult a physician or a health care professional before taking any supplements. Before taking any kind of medicine, check with your doctor to ensure that the supplement you want to take is right for you. You may be allergic or you may have a sensitive stomach which may raise the need for special instruction as far as dosage goes.

L-Carnitine Precautions and Potential Side Effects

If you are currently being treated with AZT, Doxorubicin, Isotretinoin, and Valproic Acid you should consult a physician before using any L carnitine supplements. If you have a health condition or are on any prescription medications you should also check with a physician first before taking any L carnitine supplements. Other possible but rare side effects include body odor (fish-like smell), rash, and increased appetite.

L-carnitine does not have any toxicity issues and normal dosages are safe. This dietary supplement is considered safe when used as recommended however if you suffer from any medical condition such as chronic fatigue, cardiac problems, or anything associated with your thyroid, you should ask your physician before taking L-Carnitine for the treatment of any medical condition. Overall, L-Carnitine is a safe supplement. Too much of any supplement will cause problems, but the amount of L-Carnitine found in supplements should not cause any side effects. No toxic effects related to L-carnitine overdose have been reported to date, although less serious side effects, such as mild nausea, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea, from consuming high doses of 5 or more grams per day, may occur.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Taste, solubility, and suggested preparation of L-Carnitine

This product dissolves quickly in water and has a very mild taste. The taste is somewhat sweet and with just a tiny tinge of bitter taste. Put your powdered dose into your mouth and let it dissolve, or mix your dose with water or juice and drink.

L-Carnitine powder has a very mild taste and can easily be taken in raw powder form or dissolved in water. For combating symptoms of fatigue and low energy L-Carnitine can be taken synergistically with Co-Q10 and D-Ribose. As a weight loss supplement L-Carnitine can be taken synergistically with GABA and CLA.

L-Carnitine is used in the following Proprietary Formulas

Universal Animal M-Stak, CytoSport Muscle Milk Light, MuscleTech Anabolic Halo, Goliath Labs Thermoloid, NOW L-Carnitine, Beverly Int. Energy Reserve, Cheap Supplements Carnitine, Country Life L-Carnitine Caps, Higher Power L-Carnitine, Higher Power Liquid L-Carnitine, Jarrow Formulas L-Carnitine, MRM L-Carnitine, Natrol L-Carnitine, Olympian Labs L-Carnitine TwinPak, Prolab L-Carnitine Liquid, Source Naturals L-Carnitine, Twinlab Carni Fuel, Twinlab Mega L-Carnitine, Weider L-Carnitine

References & Further Research

(For diabetic patients) L-Carnitine supplementation reduces oxidized LDL cholesterol in patients with diabetes
Patients with type 2 diabetes are under high oxidative stress, and levels of hyperglycemia correlate strongly with levels of LDL oxidation. Carnitine favorably modulates oxidative stress. This objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of L-carnitine on the reduction of oxidized LDL cholesterol in patients with type 2 diabetes. Eighty-one patients with diabetes were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatment groups for 3 mo. The 2 groups received either 2 g L-carnitine once daily (n = 41) or placebo (n = 40). At the end of the study period, the L-carnitine-treated patients showed significant improvements compared with the placebo group in the following markers: oxidized LDL levels decreased; LDL cholesterol decreased; triglycerides decreased; apolipoprotein A1 concentrations decreased; apolipoprotein B-100 concentrations decreased. Our study indicates that oral administration of L-carnitine reduces oxidized LDL cholesterol levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.

L-Carnitine treatment reduces severity of physical and mental fatigue and increases cognitive functions in centenarians: a randomized and controlled clinical trial
Even a hundred year old may benefit from carnitine supplements. Sixty-six centenarians with onset of fatigue after even slight physical activity were recruited to the study. The 2 groups received either 2 grams l carnitine once daily or placebo. Efficacy measures included changes in total fat mass, total muscle mass, serum triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol. The l carnitine treated centenarians, compared with the placebo group, showed significant improvements in total fat mass, total muscle mass, and plasma concentrations of total carnitine. Significant differences were also found in physical fatigue and mental fatigue. Our study indicates that oral administration of l carnitine produces a reduction of total fat mass, increases total muscular mass, and facilitates an increased capacity for physical and cognitive activity by reducing fatigue and improving cognitive functions.

L-carnitine administration in elderly subjects with rapid muscle fatigue: effect on body composition, lipid profile and fatigue
L carnitine is an important contributor to cellular energy metabolism. This study aims to evaluate the effects of carnitine supplementation on body composition, lipid profile and fatigue in elderly subjects with rapid muscle fatigue. Eighty-four elderly subjects with onset of fatigue following slight physical activity were recruited to the study. One group received carnitine 2g twice daily and the other placebo. At the end of the study, compared with placebo, the carnitine-treated patients showed significant improvements in the following parameters: total fat mass, total muscle mass, total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, triglycerides, apoA1, and apoB. There was improvement in physical fatigue and mental fatigue. Administration of carnitine to healthy elderly subjects resulted in a reduction of total fat mass, an increase of total muscle mass, and appeared to exert a favorable effect on fatigue and serum lipids.

L-Carnitine for International Customers

We have the most economical shipping costs & labeling practices for International orders. You can see our shipping costs here. Also, please note, that anything in a 1.5kg package can be shipped within a single flat rate envelope, however our shopping cart mistakenly displays 2 envelopes. Go ahead and ship the order, and you will notice that it only charges you the cost of 1 anyway. Look at the shipping costs tab above to see for yourself how you can calculate these charges.

Buying L-Carnitine Bulk or Wholesale

If you need L-Carnitine in bulk or wholesale quantities, please feel free to contact us with sourcing/shipping/fulfilment questions. If you have any questions about shipping or would like to arrange a shipment to an excluded country please use the contact page!