Evidence supporting the use of: Acetyl L-carnitine
For the health condition: Weight Loss

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Acetyl L-carnitine (ALCAR) is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative involved in the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria for energy production. Its use in weight loss is based on its role in fat metabolism, and it has been marketed as a supplement to support fat burning and increase energy expenditure. However, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for weight loss in humans is limited and mixed.

Some clinical studies have examined the effects of L-carnitine (including ALCAR) supplementation on body weight and fat mass. Meta-analyses suggest a small but statistically significant reduction in body weight in overweight or obese adults, particularly when combined with diet and exercise interventions. The average weight loss is modest—generally less than 1 kilogram—and is not consistently observed in all trials. The mechanism is primarily attributed to enhanced fatty acid oxidation, improved mitochondrial function, and possibly increased energy expenditure.

However, other studies fail to show significant weight loss benefits in healthy, non-obese individuals, and the overall quality of evidence is moderate at best. ALCAR may have a more pronounced effect in specific populations (older adults, people with metabolic disorders) but is not a magic bullet for weight loss. Its main scientific justification is its plausible mechanism of action, but real-world effects are generally minor. No major traditional or historical uses of ALCAR for weight loss are documented; its use is primarily based on modern scientific rationale.

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