How does carnitine promote good health?

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  1.  Stacy Wiegman
     
    Stacy Wiegman answered:
    Carnitine, a naturally occurring substance made from amino acids in the body, promotes good health by helping the body turn fat into energy. It also helps transport toxic compounds out of cells.

    Most healthy people make enough carnitine on their own, but research suggests that carnitine supplements may benefit people with certain conditions. A number of clinical trials show that carnitine may help people who have had a heart attack or angina (chest pain that happens when the heart doesn't get enough oxygen). Early studies reveal that it may also have an effect on hyperthyroidism, erectile dysfunction and Alzheimer's disease, although experts say more research is needed on these topics.

    Speak with your health-care provider if you're interested in taking carnitine supplements.
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    Carnitine, a naturally occurring substance made from amino acids in the body, promotes good health by helping the body turn fat into energy. It also helps transport toxic compounds out of cells. Most healthy people make enough carnitine on... More
  2. Dr. Michael T Murray
     

    Carnitine has been shown to offer significant support to people with heart disease. Since long-chain fatty acids are the preferred energy source in well-oxygenated heart tissue, normal heart function is dependent on adequate concentrations of carnitine within the heart. Carnitine also increases HDL (good) cholesterol levels, while decreasing triglyceride and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

    Find out more about this book: Encyclopedia of Healing Foods
    More Related Answers from Dr. Michael T Murray
    Carnitine has been shown to offer significant support to people with heart disease. Since long-chain fatty acids are the preferred energy source in well-oxygenated heart tissue, normal heart function is dependent on adequate concentrations of... More