Role of Supplementary <smlcap>L</smlcap>-Carnitine in Exercise and Exercise Recovery

Abstract

L-Carnitine is a conditionally essential nutrient and plays an important role in mitochondrial β-oxidation. As a dietary supplement for athletes, L-carnitine has been investigated for its potential to enhance β-oxidation during exercise ultimately to improve performance. While some studies have shown a positive impact on VO(2 max) and other performance measures, other studies have found contradictory results. As such, investigations to a different mechanism by which L-carnitine supplementation could impact exercise and recovery were explored. Based on findings from cardiovascular research that L-carnitine enhances vascular endothelial function, an alternate hypothesis was developed. The hypothesis is centered on improving blood flow to muscle tissues and decreasing hypoxic stress and its resulting sequelae. Studies have shown a decrease in markers of purine catabolism and free radical generation and muscle soreness as a result of L-carnitine supplementation. Direct assessment of muscle tissue damage via magnetic resonance imaging also indicates the ability of L-carnitine to attenuate tissue damage related to hypoxic stress. L-Carnitine is regarded as a safe supplement for athletes and has been shown to positively impact the recovery process after exercise.

Potential Therapeutic Role of L-Carnitine in Skeletal Muscle Oxidative Stress and Atrophy Conditions

“…In accordance with CARN role in skeletal muscle, a large amount of research was directed towards investigating the effects of CARN supplementation on exercise performance [ 9 ], particularly in ameliorating and accelerating recovery from exercise-induced muscle injury [ 7 ]. It has been found that supplemental CARN is effective in attenuating signs of tissue damage induced by lengthening or intense contractions also in sarcopenic muscle [ 10 ].…”

Risks and Benefits of Carnitine Supplementation in Diabetes

“…However, thus far, the body weight-reducing effect of L-carnitine supplementation has not been proven clinically [2]. A similar situation is characteristic of the use of L-carnitine for improved physical activity: L-carnitine is not considered a doping agent, but it has been shown to positively impact the recovery process after exercise [3]. In recent years, the first concerns regarding L-carnitine intake and cardiovascular health risks were published.…”

Bioactive compounds in meat and their importance in human nutrition

“…Najbardziej znaną funkcją L-karnityny jest przyspieszanie procesu oksydacji lipidów w mitochondriach, co wpływa na redukcję tkanki tłuszczowej. Dzięki tej funkcji opóźnione zostaje również zmęczenie mięśni, w wyniku wolniejszego zużycia glikogenu, co pozwala na przeprowadzanie dłuższych i intensywniejszych treningów [27]. Sung i in.…”