What is the recommended dosage for L-Carnitine?

General: 500-2,000 mg/day; Weight Management: 2,000-3,000 mg/day L-carnitine L-tartrate; Exercise Performance: 2,000 mg/day

What are the side effects of L-Carnitine?

Potential side effects include: Fishy body odor, Nausea, Diarrhea, Abdominal cramps.

What is L-carnitine and how may it support weight management?

L-carnitine is an amino acid derivative that plays a role in transporting fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. A 2020 meta-analysis of 37 RCTs found that L-carnitine supplementation was associated with modest reductions in body weight. Results varied based on dosage and study population.

What dosage of L-carnitine has been studied for weight management?

Clinical trials have used 1–3 grams of L-carnitine per day, with 2 grams being the most common dose. Both L-carnitine L-tartrate and acetyl-L-carnitine forms have been studied. Trial durations typically ranged from 8 to 24 weeks.

What are the potential side effects of L-carnitine supplements?

Common side effects include nausea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. High doses (above 3 grams daily) may produce a fishy body odor. Some research suggests that gut bacteria can convert L-carnitine to trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), which has been associated with cardiovascular risk.

L-Carnitine

fat_metabolism

Also known as: Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR), L-Carnitine L-Tartrate (LCLT), Propionyl-L-Carnitine, Carnitine

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About

An essential cofactor for transporting long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. Meta-analyses of 37 RCTs demonstrate that L-carnitine supplementation may support healthy body weight and body composition, particularly when combined with physical activity.

How It Works

Essential cofactor for carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) enzyme system, which transports long-chain fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane for beta-oxidation. Without adequate carnitine, fatty acids cannot enter mitochondria for energy production. Also supports pyruvate dehydrogenase activity, improving overall substrate utilization.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Fat Oxidation Enhancement	B	37	2292	View →
Exercise Performance for Weight Loss	C	8	400	View →

Side Effects

Fishy body odor
Nausea
Diarrhea
Abdominal cramps

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Thyroid hormones (may reduce effectiveness)
Anticoagulants (may enhance effect)
Acenocoumarol

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Alpha-Lipoic Acid Berberine CLA MCT Oil

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 500-2,000 mg/day; Weight_Management: 2,000-3,000 mg/day L-carnitine L-tartrate; Exercise_Performance: 2,000 mg/day
Forms: capsule tablet liquid powder
Natural Sources: Red meat (beef, lamb), Pork, Poultry, Fish, Dairy products
Upper Limit: 3,000 mg/day; higher doses may cause fishy body odor, nausea, diarrhea
Best Time: With carbohydrate-containing meals (insulin enhances muscle uptake); or pre-exercise

Evidence Summary

Fat Oxidation Enhancement B

Exercise Performance for Weight Loss C

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.