Amino Acid
L Carnitine
Also known as: LC, L-Carnitine HCl, L-carnitine hydrochloride, Levocarnitine HCl
L-carnitine is a naturally occurring compound synthesized from amino acids that plays a crucial role in transporting long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. Evidence supports modest benefits for exercise performance and recovery in carnitine-deficient individuals, though benefits in healthy populations are limited.
Primary uses
- Sperm motility
- Sperm energy
- Male fertility
- Mitochondrial function
- Energy metabolism and fat oxidation
- Exercise performance and endurance
- Muscle recovery
- Cardiovascular health
How it works
- Provides energy for sperm motility
- Supports sperm mitochondria
- May improve sperm parameters
- Acetyl form crosses BBB
Dosage
- Typical range
- 1-3g daily
- Timing
- Divided doses
- With food
- Either way
- Duration
- 3 months (sperm development cycle)
- Special populations
- Male fertility, sperm motility issues, oligospermia
Forms
- L-Carnitine L-Tartrate
- Acetyl-L-Carnitine
- Combination
- Powder· 70/100
- Capsules· 70/100
- Tablets· 70/100
- Liquid· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Fishy body odor
- GI upset
- Nausea
Contraindications
- Seizure disorders (may lower threshold)
Evidence notes
Good evidence for male fertility, particularly sperm motility
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
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