Understanding L-Carnitine: Function, Benefits, and Safety
L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring compound synthesized from the amino acids lysine and methionine, primarily in the liver and kidneys. This essential nutrient plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria—the energy-producing powerhouses of cells—where they are oxidized to generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body’s primary energy currency. Biological Function and Mechanism In humans, L-Carnitine exists in two forms: L-carnitine (the biologically active form) and D-carnitine (a synthetic, inactive enantiomer). Dietary sources of L-carnitine include red meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products, with vegetarians and vegans at a higher risk of deficiency. The body tightly regulates L-carnitine levels through renal reabsorption, but certain conditions like […]
