L-Carnitine

Acetyl-L-Carnitine & L Carnitine L Tartrate

Both forms of carnitine are household compounds in any supplement store. Both L-Carnitine-L-Tartrate (LCLT) and Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) are usually found in the weight loss and performance sections. Carnitine is an essential performance compound that can be supplemented or found in meat and milk (1). LCLT is best known and used for increasing exercise performance. When acetylated, LCLT becomes ALCAR. ALCAR is utilized for healthy brain function. 

When to take Acetyl-L-Carnitine & L Carnitine L Tartrate

L-Carnitine-L-Tartrate is best supplemented before working out to increase physical performance. It is suggested to take between 1-4 grams with a typical dose of 1.5 grams. ALCAR can be dosed between 630mg to 2.5g. Because of the positive effects on daily functioning, both forms of carnitine can be supplemented everyday. 

Other Benefits of Acetyl-L-Carnitine & L Carnitine L Tartrate

L-Carnitine-L-Tartrate has been shown to increase male fertility and help reduce the effects of certain liver diseases (2). In some studies, supplementing ALCAR daily has been shown to aid in those battling depression (3). 

1.Kraemer WJ, Volek JS, Dunn-Lewis C. L-carnitine supplementation: influence upon physiological function. Curr Sports Med Rep. (2008) 2.Flanagan JL, et al. Role of carnitine in disease. Nutr Metab (Lond). (2010) 3.Cruciani RA, et al. L-carnitine supplementation for the treatment of fatigue and depressed mood in cancer patients with carnitine deficiency: a preliminary analysis. Ann N Y Acad Sci. (2004)