Power System L-Carnitine attack (L-carnitine) with caffeine and guarana

There are a huge number of dietary supplements for weight loss on the market, but among them there is one particularly popular supplement - L-carnitine. This is an amino acid that is involved in fat metabolism - it delivers fatty acids inside the mitochondria of cells, where they are burned. Without carnitine, fat burning is basically impossible. But is it possible to eat more of it to lose weight faster? Let's figure it out!

Carnitine (“carnus” means meat, from which it was first obtained) is an amino acid that is found in animal tissues: in the muscles, liver and heart it is most abundant []. So meat products are its main source in food. But the body can make carnitine on its own - from the amino acids methionine and lysine with the participation of vitamin C.

Carnitine is involved in fat burning - in the use of fat reserves as energy [, , ].

Application of L-carnitine

Carnitine (levocarnitine) is a natural substance synthesized by the liver and found in meat products. The body is not able to cover its needs completely, so external intake is necessary for its normal functioning.

The main functions of levocarnitine:

• promotes the transport of fatty acids into cell mitochondria for energy production;
• slows down the breakdown of proteins and carbohydrates;
• activates fat utilization;
• increases endurance during physical activity;
• reduces the concentration of lactic acid, facilitates recovery after training.

It is used by athletes to reduce the percentage of body fat and gain muscle mass, people with increased weight to lose weight, patients with anorexia to improve appetite, patients during the recovery period after surgery, injuries and damage to the nervous system, with significant emotional stress and stress.

Conflicting indications are due to the natural effect of L-carnitine on energy metabolism: under conditions of physical activity, fat is destroyed and proteins are synthesized, so appetite increases. To get the desired result, those losing weight must exercise, follow a diet and drink at least two liters of water a day.

Nutrex Research, Liquid Carnitine 3000, Cosmic Charge, 16 fl. oz.(480 ml)

RUB 1,310

More details

Daily norm

The body’s physiological need for levocarnitine depends on the person’s type of activity, age, gender, weight, and the presence of diseases.

For newborns and infants up to one year, the daily requirement of vitamin B11 is 10-15 milligrams, for children from 1 to 3 years old - 30-50, for children from 4 to 6 years old - 60-90, for school-age children and adolescents from 7 to 18 years – 100-250, for adults – 300.

The liver and kidneys of healthy children, men and women produce L-carnitine from the amino acids lysine and methionine, fully covering the body's need for this nutrient. However, this occurs only under the condition of proper nutrition and sufficient intake of vitamins, C, and methionine.

The daily requirement for levocarnitine increases in people who lead an active lifestyle, experience heavy physical activity (during training), mental stress, or have diseases of the digestive system.

At the same time, the opinions of nutritionists regarding taking large doses (2000-4000 milligrams) of vitamin B11 are not clear. Some believe that systematically exceeding the daily dose of 300 micrograms can cause adverse reactions (allergies), addiction of the body, and as a result, reduce the production of its own levocarnitine. As a result, this will serve as a reason for the development of addiction. Other nutritionists believe that increasing the norm has a beneficial effect on the human body: it improves the functioning of the heart, blood vessels, energy metabolism, and “dries out” muscle mass.

Features of the liquid form of L-carnitine

There are many forms of L-carnitine: liquid aqueous solutions, capsules, tablets, drinking ampoules. In medicine, ampoules for intravenous infusions are used for therapeutic purposes. A variety of options allows you to choose the product individually, taking into account your personal characteristics.

The main advantage of the liquid form is that the substance is quickly absorbed and begins to work. To absorb carnitine from a tablet or capsule, it takes time for the shell and internal contents to dissolve, which means that during the period of passage through the intestines, less of the active substance has time to enter the blood.

Dr. Zaur Orujov describes in detail the benefits of L-carnitine for the body in a video available at the link:

0004: Iherb L-carnitine: cancer, immunity, infertility, AIDS and other issues

Summary table of rating nominees

Contraindications for use

According to the instructions for use, levocarnitine is absolutely contraindicated for people with hypersensitivity and allergic reactions to the supplement in the past. It is advisable to conduct allergy tests to determine which component is not tolerated, since the composition usually contains auxiliary ingredients in addition to the main active ingredient.

If there is a proven diagnosis or suspicion of trimethylaminuria, taking L-carnitine is strictly prohibited.

Since the effect of carnitine on metabolism is opposite to the effects of thyroid hormones, when thyroid function decreases, the use of nutritional supplements can aggravate the manifestations of hypothyroidism. It is recommended to consult with your doctor whether it is possible to use liquid L-carnitine for weight loss in this case or to abstain from it until your hormonal levels are corrected.

Use with caution when:

• epilepsy;
• decreased liver and kidney function;
• inflammatory diseases of the digestive system in the acute stage.

There have been no large-scale studies of the safety of the effects of food supplements with carnitine on the body of a pregnant woman and the fetus, as well as the effects on the child during breastfeeding. To eliminate the risk of undesirable consequences, it is better to refrain from use during pregnancy and lactation.

On the recommendation of a pediatrician, carnitine can be used in children with growth retardation.

What does increased estrogen lead to?

Estrogen dominance is a condition characterized by excess estrogen in the body, which leads to numerous negative effects. It can be caused not only by increased levels of the hormone, but also by decreased levels of progesterone.

The problem is exacerbated in premenopausal women. During ovulation, the egg leaves the follicle in the ovary. This follicle degenerates into the corpus luteum and begins to synthesize progesterone. But if there is no ovulation, then there is no corpus luteum and progesterone. As a result, a woman can continue to have a normal menstrual period, but a lack of progesterone provokes premenstrual syndrome in her: breast tenderness, fluid retention in the body, pain in the lower abdomen, irritability, weight gain.

Elevated estrogen levels lead to numerous pathological conditions in our body, most of which are accompanied by stimulation of cell growth, as this is the main function of estrogen in the body.

• Natural estrogens stimulate cells of organs that have estrogen receptors to their rapid growth, leading to the formation of benign and malignant formations: uterine fibroadenoma, ovarian cysts, fibrocystic formations in the mammary glands, breast cancer, endometriosis, uterine bleeding.
• Increased estrogen in women can cause bloating and increase blood pressure due to sodium and water retention in the body. Due to its stimulating effect on the central nervous system, excess estrogen makes us irritable, causes headaches and disrupts sleep.
• The hormone increases the release of histamine, and an increased tendency to allergic reactions and inflammation may develop.
• Estrogen dominance increases insulin levels. This lowers blood sugar levels, causes increased appetite and cravings for sweets, leading to overeating and accumulation of extra pounds.

How to choose the best dietary supplement option

Without experience in using L-carnitine, it is difficult to make the right choice among the wide range available on the market. Important points that you should definitely pay attention to when purchasing:

1. Compound. The main active ingredient - L-carnitine - can be presented in various forms: pure levocarnitine, tartrate, acetylcarnitine, fumarate, propionylcarnitine. For those losing weight, the first two forms are optimal, since they are absorbed faster and remain active in the bloodstream longer. To increase efficiency, ascorbic acid and vitamin B5 and B6 can be added to the composition. You should pay attention to the presence of glucose and other simple sugars: in a high-quality supplement they are replaced with artificial or natural sweeteners (sucralose, stevia extract). Manufacturers who reduce the price of goods at the expense of quality, in addition to high-calorie sugars, use a large number of stabilizers, preservatives and dyes.
2. Concentration and volume. When choosing, the most important indicator is the amount of carnitine per package. It is usually indicated in milligrams and does not depend on the volume of the liquid solution (that is, 500 ml may contain more active substance than 1 liter). To calculate the required amount, you should decide on the carnitine dosage regimen, multiply the amount of the substance for a single dose by the number of daily doses, and then by the days when you plan to take it.
3. Price. To objectively assess the cost of a product, it is preferable to compare the price not per package, but per 1 serving. This approach allows you to choose between additives with different concentrations of the main substance.

conclusions

• Despite the fact that carnitine plays an important role in the body, it is not a vitamin and is not an essential substance, since the kidneys and liver can produce it in the required quantity. The Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academy of the United States concluded in 1989 that it is not an essential nutrient based on a review of research on the functions of carnitine.
• Carnitine in the form of supplements helps burn fat if for some reason there is a deficiency.
• The amount of carnitine in muscles is stable. The body removes excess through the kidneys.
• Some studies show that carnitine increases endurance performance, although the results are mixed. So people who lose weight from carnitine lose weight because they expend more energy during training - because they exercise longer or more intensely.
• Wrong cause-and-effect relationships are often made. The girl goes on a diet, starts training and at the same time takes L-carnitine before training. She is losing weight from an energy deficit, not from the supplement, but she is sure that it is from the supplement.

Leaders among manufacturers

According to the analysis of the lists of the best L-carnitine manufacturers in recent years, the ten most reliable can be identified: NOW Foods (USA), Solgar (USA), SAN Nutrition (USA), Bioteck USA (USA), Nutrex Research (USA), GAT (USA ), Optimum Nutrition (USA), Pro Supps (USA), UNS (Poland), GNC (USA).

Companies with a long history of producing dietary supplements and sports nutrition use high-quality raw materials, proven recipes and high-tech equipment. The search for the optimal price-quality ratio should begin with the products of these manufacturers.

Why hormonal imbalance may occur

When there is balance in the body, each hormone performs its functions, ensuring the coordinated functioning of the entire body as a whole. But from about 35 years of age, the female body begins to experience fluctuations in the production of estrogen and progesterone (the hormone that balances estrogen). This stage is called perimenopause.

From this time until the onset of menopause, the synthesis of the hormone estrogen gradually decreases by an average of 25–30%. At the same time, progesterone synthesis drops sharply by an average of 70–75%. Due to differences in estrogen and progesterone production, maintaining normal estrogen levels in women becomes increasingly difficult.

TOP 5 dietary supplements with L-carnitine

For VITGID readers, a list of the 5 best supplements containing pure L-carnitine in non-ester form has been compiled. When ranking products, the mass fraction of active ingredient per serving, as well as price, were taken into account.

#1 Nutrex Research – Liquid Carnitine 3000, Cosmic Charge

Nutrex Research, Liquid Carnitine 3000, Cosmic Charge, 16 fl. oz.(480 ml)

RUB 1,310

More details

1 serving (68.52 rubles) - 3000 mg (30 ml = 2 tablespoons).

• Country: USA.
• Quantity per package: 480 ml (16 servings).

The nutritional supplement is suitable for intense strength training and long-term cardio exercise. Does not contain animal products - suitable for vegans.

Pros:

• rapid development of the effect;
• pronounced increase in performance;
• single dose;
• does not contain artificial colors or flavors;
• pleasant taste and aroma.

Minuses:

• no measuring cup.

#2 GAT – L-Carnitine, Free Form Liquid Amino Acid, Blue Raspberry

GAT, L-Carnitine, Free Form Liquid Amino Acid, Blue Raspberry

910 rub.

More details

1 serving (RUB 21.20) - 1500 mg (15 ml = 1 tablespoon).

• Country: USA.
• Quantity per package: 473 ml (32 servings).

Other Ingredients: Purified water, phosphoric acid, malic acid, natural and artificial flavors, citric acid, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, pantothenic acid, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate.

Pros:

• Vitamin B5, included in the composition, enhances the energy effect;
• convenient measuring cup.

Minuses:

• in undiluted form it can be too sweet, cause thirst, dry mouth;
• contains artificial flavor.

No. 3 ProSupps – L-carnitine 1500, berry flavor

ProSupps, L-Carnitine 1500, Berry Flavor, 473 ml

RUB 1,054

More details

1 serving (RUB 32.20) - 1500 mg (15 ml = 1 tablespoon).

• Country: USA.
• Quantity per package: 473 ml (31 servings).

The composition is identical to the previous dietary supplement. Take the same twice a day.

Pros:

• vitamin B5 increases endurance, enhances energy production;
• sweet and sour taste.

Minuses:

• contains artificial flavor.

#4 Solgar – L-carnitine, natural lemon flavor

Solgar, L-Carnitine, Natural Lemon Flavor, 1500 mg, 16 fl. oz. (473 ml)

RUB 1,930

More details

1 serving (RUB 53.12) – 1500 mg (15 ml = 1 tablespoon).

• Country: USA.
• Quantity per package: 473 ml (31 servings).

For comfortable use, dilution in 200-500 ml of water or juice is recommended.

Pros:

• pantothenic acid enhances the effect of carnitine;
• no artificial colors or flavors.

Minuses:

• glass containers may be damaged during transportation;
• cloyingly sweet taste in undiluted form;
• more expensive than some analogues.

#5 Now Foods – Citrus Flavored Liquid L-Carnitine for Athletes, 1000 mg

Now Foods, Liquid L-Carnitine, Citrus Flavored for Athletes, 1,000 mg, 32 fl oz (946 ml)

RUB 1,823

More details

1 serving (RUB 24.58) - 1000 mg (15 ml = 1 tablespoon).

• Country: USA.
• Quantity per package: 946 ml (63 servings).

The natural composition allows the supplement to be used even by people prone to food allergies.

Pros:

• additionally contains pyridoxine (vitamin B6) for more effective fat burning;
• no artificial colors or flavors, sodium benzoate.

Minuses:

• lower carnitine content per serving;
• insufficiently pronounced effect.

How to get the maximum effect from the supplement: 4 secrets

There are several secrets that will help you get a good effect from taking this substance.

1. Play sports. Many people think that it is enough to drink L-carnitine, and the weight will go away as if by magic. No, without exercise you will not only not lose weight, but you will also gain weight (remember about the crazy appetite).
2. Aerobic exercise is required. The supplement works best when you do cardio, swimming, fitness, dancing, playing basketball, tennis, etc.
3. Add lipoic acid. The acid enhances the effect of the supplement, and is sold in pharmacies without a prescription and costs a penny.
4. Remember to eat right. If you snack on sports drink pies, don’t dream of any weight loss. Only the right food will lead to success: more proteins, less carbohydrates and fatty foods. But don’t completely remove fats from your diet: flaxseed or olive oil and fatty fish will only bring benefits.

Now you know whether to take L-carnitine, what type to choose and how to enhance its effect. Still have questions? Ask our consultants: they will help you choose the right and effective sports supplement. We wish you new achievements!

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Where is the best place to buy

Pharmacy chains, small retail outlets of nutritional supplements and sports nutrition provide a meager assortment at inflated prices.

The lowest prices for liquid L-carnitine are in the well-known online store iHerb. From other sellers the cost will be 30-50% higher. You can check it yourself.

There is a discount of up to 10% on iHerb using this promotional code:

AGK4375

Activate

The promotional code is activated in the cart after adding the 1st product and is valid only for the 1st order.

How to take liquid L-carnitine correctly

The selection of the daily dosage is carried out taking into account the approximate weight of the person:

• up to 60 kg – 1000-2000 mg per day;
• more than 60 kg – 2000-3000 mg.

There are several schemes that reflect how to drink liquid L-carnitine correctly, and there is no consensus on which one will be more effective:

1. Full dose once 30 minutes before training: maximum energy is released during physical activity, endurance during cardio training increases.
2. Take half a serving before training, dilute the other half in water and drink during exercise: the initial burst of energy is maintained for a long time, allowing you to exercise less intensely, but longer.
3. Half the daily dosage half an hour before training, the second half is divided into 2 parts and taken with meals.

On days without exercise, you can either skip taking carnitine or divide it into 2-3 times and take it before 16:00.

The duration of the course should be on average 4-6 weeks followed by a break of 2-3 weeks.

Forms of release of dietary supplements

L-carnitine is available in the form of powder, capsules or ready-made drinks. In addition, it can be in pure form or in combination with other additives, vitamins, and substances. Each type has its own characteristics, but in terms of effectiveness they differ little from each other. Therefore, the choice depends only on personal preferences. It is more convenient to take a ready-made drink with you to the fitness room, since you can drink it throughout your workouts. And at home - capsules or powder. Let's look at each release form in more detail.

Pure 100% L-Carnitine

Pure L-carnitine is usually available in powder form. It is recommended to dilute it in water and drink it before intense training. It helps increase endurance and adds energy to the body.

The powder is usually packaged in portions in small boxes weighing 100-200 grams, depending on the manufacturer.

The finished drink has a specific bitter taste and an unusual smell. That is why carnitine in its pure form is rarely used. Usually a flavoring agent and a natural flavor enhancer are added to it.

L-Carnitine tartrate

Tartrate is a combination of pure l-carnitine and tartaric acid. They are mixed in a ratio of 70% to 30%, ensuring better absorption of the components by the body:

• helps accelerate metabolic processes, neutralizes lactic acid in muscles, prevents pain;
• tartaric acid helps dilate blood vessels, improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system, and relieves fatigue after intense training.

The product is designed specifically for professional athletes. Available in capsule or powder form.

Acetyl L-Carnitine

Acetyl L-carnitine comes in capsule form for oral administration. They have the following positive effects:

• improve metabolic processes occurring in the body;
• help increase brain activity;
• reduce the level of fatigue after intense training;
• removes excess fluid from the body.

Capsules are used mainly by professional athletes during intense training under high loads. For those who are just starting to work out in the gym, you can choose a dietary supplement with a lower concentration.

Propionyl L-Carnitine

The dietary supplement Propionil is available in capsule, tablet or powder format. It is also a type of natural substance, but it contains another component - glycine:

• l-carnitine has the same effects: improves metabolic processes, relieves fatigue after training;
• Glycine has a positive effect on the psycho-emotional state: it helps improve sleep, relieves insomnia, and relieves nervous tension.

This combination may be useful for people to lose weight. Making a drastic lifestyle change and adding exercise to your daily routine can be stressful. In this case, taking the dietary supplement Propionil in combination with working with a psychologist will have a positive effect on your well-being.

L-Carnitine fumarate

The dietary supplement fumarate is most often available in the form of a ready-made drink or tablets for oral administration. It is also used during intense training to restore strength and energy, relieve tension and pain.

This dietary supplement should not be used for pathologies of the liver and kidneys. In addition, they drink it in courses as prescribed by a specialist. Chronic use may lead to side effects.

Possible side effects

Since the L-carnitine molecule is natural, adverse events from its use occur extremely rarely. However, it is advisable to monitor for the occurrence of drug-related symptoms:

• allergic skin rash, angioedema, itching;
• muscle weakness with concomitant kidney disease;
• pain in the stomach, nausea;
• stool disorder;
• increased seizure activity in patients with epilepsy.

If side effects occur, it is best to stop using the dietary supplement before consulting your doctor.

For whom can carnitine be effective?

The body produces enough carnitine to meet the needs of most people. Supplements with it do not affect fat metabolism if a person does not have a carnitine deficiency [, , ]. But if someone falls into one of the carnitine deficiency categories, supplements may be effective for weight loss:

• Veganism. Although, there is evidence that even with a diet depleted of carnitine, the kidneys effectively retain carnitine, so this does not greatly affect its amount in the body.
• Elderly age.
• Impaired carnitine synthesis in the body - genetic or acquired, including from certain medications [].
• Diseases: cancer and the rehabilitation period after chemotherapy [], type 2 diabetes [].