1. Heart Conditions (Angina, Congestive Heart Failure, Heart Attack)
a) Angina
Several clinical trials show that supplementing with L-carnitine can help reduce symptoms of angina and improve the ability of people with angina to exercise without chest pain. L-carnitine is an amino acid needed to transport fats into the mitochondria (the place in the cell where fats are turned into energy). Adequate energy production is essential for normal heart function.
Recommended Dosage —— Several studies using 1 gram of L-carnitine two to three times per day showed an improvement in heart function and a reduction in symptoms of angina.
b) Congestive Heart Failure
Many L-carnitine/CHF studies have suggested that propionyl-L-carnitine (a modified form of L-carnitine) can help improve heart function and exercise tolerance in people with mild to moderate congestive heart failure. Levels of L-carnitine are low in people with CHF. Heart muscle damage may be reduced by taking L-carnitine supplements.
Recommended Dosage —— Many doctors recommend that those with CHF take 500 mg of L-carnitine two to three times per day.
c) Heart Attack
Some studies suggest that people who take L-carnitine supplements may help reduce damage and complications following a heart attack. L-carnitine is an amino acid important for transporting fats that can be turned into energy in the heart.
Recommended Dosage —— Clinical trials have reported that taking L-carnitine (4–6 grams per day) increases the chance of surviving a heart attack.
2. Peripheral Vascular Disease
Reduced blood flow to the legs from atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, where plaque builds up in the arteries, often causes an aching or cramping pain in the legs while walking or exercising. This pain is called intermittent claudication, and the reduced blood flow to the legs is called peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Several studies show that supplementing with L-carnitine can help reduce symptoms and increase walking distance in people with intermitting claudication.
Recommended Dosage —— 2 grams of L-carnitine taken twice per day for three weeks
3. Obesity
In a study, people who add L-carnitine per day to an exercise program lost more weight than those who took a placebo. The amino acid L-carnitine is helpful for weight loss because of its role in fat metabolism.
Recommended Dosage —— 1,000mg of L-carnitine per day
*The Content here is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.