Carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative with well-established functions in cellular metabolism. Carnitine is produced in the body and consumed in the diet from meat and dairy products.
Carnitine is required by the body for energy metabolism and for the proper use of fats as an energy source and enhances fatty acid oxidation, particularly during exercise. It is an essential Co-Factor in the breakdown of fats for use as an energy source.
During exercise muscle Carnitine levels decrease. Restricted diets can also reduce muscle Carnitine levels. Supplementation with Carnitine is beneficial in alleviating these decreases and helps to increase the activity of key oxidative (fat burning) enzymes.
Carnitine supplementation is beneficial for endurance athletes as it can increase VO2 MAX and reduce exercise-associated lactate accumulation, thereby delaying the onset of fatigue.
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