Nutrition Bytes

Originally isolated from muscle extracts at the beginning of the century, carnitine (L-trimethyl-3-hydroxy-ammoniobutanoate) is an endogenous compound with a significant role in cellular biochemistry. Carnitine is required for the transport of fatty acids (FA) from the cytosol into the mitochondrial matrix for b-oxidation, and also serves as a substrate for reversible acetylation by acetyl-coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA.) Because of its function in fatty acid oxidation and CoA metabolism, supplementary carnitine has been marketed as an ergogenic aid to boost physical performance. However, the results of research into the effects of carnitine supplementation on physical exercise is more ambiguous. Although some studies do indicate that carnitine supplementation has positive influence on maximal exercise capacity, a number of others fail to discern any such relationship. While further research is needed to make a firm conclusion, the current evidence suggests that carnitine supplementation may provide some slight ergogenic benefits.