How Does L-Carnitine Help Burn Fat

First there was Nivea claiming ‘Goodbye Cellulite’ by applying a L-Carnitine based lotion. But when I spied a Del Monte Pineapple Juice Drink with L-Carnitine, I became curious as to what L-Carnitine is.

Del Monte’s Explanation Unlike Nivea, Del Monte clarifies by printing on the product label a short explanation about L-Carnitine.

“L-Carnitine is a natural substance that is occurring in the body but can be supplemented for optimal health. It transports the fatty acids into the mitochondria, the “cell’s powerhouse,” where they are burned into energy needed for a healthy heart, important body functions and physical activities.

“L-Carnitine may contribute to optimal fat oxidation, and along with a proper diet and regular exercise, may also promote a healthy body weight.”

Does L-Carnitine really help burn fat? University of Maryland Medical Center verifies that, “Carnitine is a nutrient responsible for the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the energy-producing centers of the cells (known as the mitochondria).

“In other words, carnitine helps the body convert fatty acids into energy, which is used primarily for muscular activities throughout the body. The body produces carnitine in the liver and kidneys and stores it in the skeletal muscles, heart, brain, and sperm.”

Do I need to take a L-Carnitine supplement? However, Wikipedia lists the best source for natural carnitine as meat and dairy products, and includes nuts, seeds, vegetables, fruits and cereals. Therefore, a well balanced diet should provide all your necessary L-Carnitine.

Although primary carnitine deficiency exists, this is a genetic disorder that occurs in 1 out of every 100,000.

University of Maryland Medical Center adds that lack of carnitine may also occur due to “liver and kidney problems, high-fat diets, or certain medication.”

Can ingesting L-Carnitine help me lose weight? PDR Health says, “There is little convincing evidence that L-carnitine supplements have any significant impact on physical performance or obesity.”

Conclusion Note that I chose “neutral” sites to base this post on, such as medical or scientific sites. Otherwise, a vitamin or supplement based site would naturally have other motivations.

Therefore, despite the lack of scientific evidence, expect L-Carnitine to be touted in more “lose weight” products, whether applied topically such as Nivea Body Goodbye Cellulite or ingested such as Del Monte Fit ‘n Right juice drinks.

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