Evidence supporting the use of: L-carnitine
For the body system: Mitochondria

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

L-carnitine is primarily justified for mitochondrial support based on scientific evidence. L-carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative that plays a key role in mitochondrial energy metabolism. Its main function is to transport long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are oxidized (“burned”) to produce energy (ATP). This process is fundamental to the functioning of cells with high energy demands, such as muscle and heart tissue. Deficiencies in carnitine or defects in its transport system can lead to impaired energy production, which has been documented in certain metabolic and mitochondrial disorders.

Clinical studies and reviews support the use of L-carnitine supplementation in individuals with primary or secondary carnitine deficiency, and in some cases of mitochondrial myopathies. It has been investigated for its potential to improve symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, and exercise intolerance in these populations. However, evidence for its efficacy in healthy individuals or for general “mitochondrial support” in the absence of deficiency is less robust.

Overall, while L-carnitine has a well-defined physiological role in mitochondrial function and is supported by scientific evidence in the context of certain metabolic and mitochondrial diseases, its benefits for the general population remain less clear. The evidence rating is 3/5, reflecting moderate support rooted in biochemistry and clinical research, but with limited benefit outside specific deficiencies or disorders.

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amino acids
amylopectin
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bovine liver
caffeine
catechins
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creatine monohydrate
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epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)
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flavonols
fructose
fruit and vegetable blend (proprietary)
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gooseberry
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knotweed
krill oil
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l-citrulline
l-glutathione
l-glycine
l-taurine
lentinula edodes mycelia
linoleic acid (LA)
liquid liver fractions
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maitake mushroom
malic acid
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maqui berry
marine lipid
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niacinamide (vitamin B3)
nicotinamide riboside
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phenolic acids
phosphatidylcholine
pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P)
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quercetin
quinoa
resveratrol
rhodiola
riboflavin (vitamin B2)
rosemary
sardines
selenium
black ginger
spinach
starch
stearic acid
strawberry
succinic acid
sulforaphane glucosinolate
thiamin (vitamin B1)
tocotrienols
trans-geranylgeraniol
trans-pterostilbene
tributyrin
turkey tail mushroom
ubiquinol
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vegetable and fruit blend (proprietary)
vitamin B
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vitamin D3
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