Carnitine (vitamin Bt)

Non essential amino acid which finds its production in the liver, brain and amino acid methionine in the kidney along with lysine. Carnitine goes by the genetic name as there are a number of other compounds which includes L-carnitine, L-propionylcarnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine, L-acetylcarnitine etc. This is synthesized in the body from methionine or lysine.

Amino acids find its direct use in the helping the metabolic activities of the body and carnitine is the secondary form of this amino acid. The isomer of this is termed as L-carnitine. Carnitine is available in red meat, dairy products and even in breast milk as it is made in the human body also this is so because of the breakdown of the muscle protein which gets converted into carnitine.

This nutrient has the most important function and that is to help transport all the fatty acids in the body to the mitochondria to produce energy. It also plays an important role in transporting a number of substances for metabolic activities that are carried out in the body. Mitochondria are a power house of activities and it is with the help of this that the fats are converted into energy which the body needs to carry out its metabolic activities. Carnitine is produced in the body in the liver as well as kidney’s and stored in the skeletal muscles, brain, sperms and in the heart. It also acts as an antioxidant and plays an important role in protecting the nerves, liver and kidneys from the effect of toxic drugs.

Supplements of L-carnitine have shown to prevent cardiac ischemia and the disease of the peripheral arteries. It has also helped to lower the level of triglyceride and increase the level of HDL cholesterol. It has also helped to prevent disorders of the liver, immune system, the kidney’s and also diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.

What are the sources of carnitine?

Carnitine has its origin in animal fats, meat and other dairy products. Red meat especially that procured from lamb and dairy products all contain carnitine. It can also be found in poultry, fishes, fermented soybeans, asparagus, wheat, peanut butter, avocados, etc. cereals, vegetables and fruits are not rich sources of carnitine as it is may contain or may not contain carnitine.

The body also produces carnitine though this is possible only if all the required amount of both the minerals and vitamins are present. Plants are not good sources of carnitine and adults do not require carnitine and it is synthesis from lysine and methionine which is found in the kidneys and liver.

What are the effects due to deficiency of carnitine?

There are basically two types of deficiency i.e. primary and secondary. Both these deficiencies can be overcome by the help of dietary supplements. Deficiency of carnitine is due to the low level of carnitine supply in the blood which prevents the required amount to reach the cells. Secondary disorder leads to the disorder of the metabolism of the mitochondrial working.

Overdose of carnitine

Overdose of carnitine leads to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mild gastrointestinal disorders, abdominal cramps etc. Some rare but significant side effects can lead to increase in the appetite, body odor and development of rashes.