L-carnitine

Weight Loss L Carnitine Powder CAS 541-15-1 99% L-Carnitine Base

What is L-Carnitine?

L-Carnitine is an amino acid derivative that the body can synthesize from lysine and methionine. It plays an important role in metabolism and supports energy production. Carnitine occurs as two stereoisomers, D-Carnitine and L-Carnitine. While these isomers are made up of the same compounds, they differ in how they orient those parts. D-Carnitine is toxic, but L-Carnitine has several beneficial properties.

Muscle tissues contain the vast majority of L-Carnitine (98%). Most food sources of L-Carnitine are animal-based. Red meat contains the highest amount of L-Carnitine. Four ounces of ground beef contains 87-99mg of L-Carnitine, and steak nets 56-162mg per a four-ounce serving. Codfish and chicken contain some L-Carnitine but in minimal amounts. A four-ounce serving of codfish contains 4-7mg, and the same serving of chicken breast contains 3-5mg of L-Carnitine.

Dairy products contain some carnitine, but it's notably less than meat sources. One cup of whole milk provides 8mg of carnitine, and two ounces of cheddar cheese has a meager two ounces. While the body can synthesize L-Carnitine, vegans tend to have lower levels compared to individuals that consume omnivorous diets.