L-Carnitine occurs naturally in animal products (esp. beef) with smaller amounts in dairy, fish, and chicken. There are also very small amounts in avocado and some fermented soy products such as tempeh. Methionine and lysine serve as precursors to the synthesis of L-Carnitine.

People with high stress levels, parenteral nutrition patients, and elderly patients may not be able to synthesize sufficient quantities of L-Carnitine. Under these circumstances L-Carnitine is considered a conditionally essential nutrient and supplementation may be helpful. Children at 2 1/2 years of age synthesize L-Carnitine at about 30% the adult rate. Full capacity does not occur until age 15.

L-Carnitine may provide support for cardioprotective activity, triglyceride lowering, and HDL raising benefits*. All body tissues, except for the brain, metabolize long-chain fatty acids for energy production. L-Carnitine transports long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria where they are oxidized (metabolized). Once oxidized they enhance the mitochondrial production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Enhancing ATP production improves the metabolic efficiency in the tissues involved.

Walking capacity may be significantly improved for patients with lower leg cramping due to circulatory vasospasm. Skeletal muscle function and metabolic efficiency may also be enhanced with L-Carnitine supplementation*.

Approximately 40% of those with nutrient deficiency induced muscle disease respond favorably to L-Carnitine therapy with enhanced muscle strength and reduced muscle breakdown proteins in the urine (myoglobinuria).*

The liver and kidney are involved in L-Carnitine synthesis. Those with liver disease or chronic kidney disease may have impaired L-Carnitine synthesis and suffer from L-Carnitine deficiencies in skeletal and heart muscle tissues.*

Supplement Facts:
Each vegetable capsule contains:
L-Carnitine Tartrate 750mg
---(Yields 500mg of Elemental L-Carnitine)
Other Ingredients: cellulose, silica.

Recommended Use:
Adults: As a dietary supplement, take 1 to 2 capsules daily between meals, or as directed by your healthcare professional.

References:
1. PDR for Nutritional Supplements, 1st Ed. Medical Economics/Thomson Healthcare. 2001.
2. Bohmer T, Rynding A, Solberg HE. Carnitine levels in human serum and disease. Clin Chim Acta. 57:55-61, 1974.
3. Borum PR. Carnitine. Ann Rev Nutr. 3:233-259, 1983.
4. Brevetti G, Chiarello M, Ferulano G, et al. Increases in walking distance in patients with peripheral vascular disease: a double-blind, cross-over study. Circul. 77:767-773, 1988.
5. Sachan DS, Rhew TH, Ruark RA. Ameliorating effects of carnitine on alcohol-induced fatty liver. Am J Clin Nutr. 39:738-744, 1984.
6. Rebouche CJ, Engel AG. Carnitine metabolism and function in humans. Ann Rev Nutr. 6:41-68, 1986.
7. Levocarnitine. Physicians Desk Reference. 54th ed. Montvale, NJ; Medical Economics Company. 2957-2959, 2000.
8. Pola P, et al. Statistical evaluation of long term L-Carnitine therapy in hyperlipoproteinemias. Drugs Exptl Clin Res. 9:925-934, 1983.
9. Davini P, et al. Controlled study on L-Carnitine therapeutic efficacy in most MI patients. Drugs Exptl Clin Res. 18:355-365, 1992.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.