L-carnitine, Aging, Muscle Mass, Energy and Mental Function
L-carnitine (also known as levocarnitine) is a substance produced in the body (in the liver and kidneys) that helps cells create energy from fat. This may seem rather boring, but when levels of L-carnitine drop, a person may experience fatigue and weakness. Starting at age 70, the L-carntine levels in the body naturally begin to drop. This drop may causes changes in energy level, muscle mass and brain functioning.Supplemental L-carnitine
Lucky, L-carnitine supplementation is possible. To discover if taking supplements would improve the health of people over 100, researchers enrolled 66 men and women, all over 100 years old, in a six-month study. Each person was randomly assigned to receive either a daily dose of 2 grams of L-carntine or a placebo for 6 months.The group that received the L-carnitine had reduced cholesterol levels, a gain of 8.4 pounds of muscle mass, and a loss of 4 pounds of fat. They were also able to walk further in tests. Participants themselves reported feeling less mental and physical fatigue. They also scored better on mental fitness test. No side effects were reported.
Should I Buy L-carnitine?
If you are over 100, talk to your doctor about it. It may really help you. If you are over 70, you might consider it as well (again, talk to your doctor). If you are under 70, your body probably produces the normal amount of L-carnitine. Research on have a more than normal amount of this substance in your body is not nearly as clear as the study mentioned about -- you may simply be throwing your money away.Source:
Malaguarnera M, Cammalleri L, Gargante MP, Vacante M, Colonna V, Motta M.
L-Carnitine treatment reduces severity of physical and mental fatigue and increases cognitive functions in centenarians: a randomized and controlled clinical trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Dec;86(6):1738-44.
