You might have heard people talking about carnitine, or maybe you've seen it listed as an ingredient in your pre-workout. But what is carnitine, really? And with so many variations like L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine out there, which carnitine is best for you? Let's break it down. 

Carnitine is an amino acid compound primarily found in animal products like meat and dairy. It's an essential component in the energy production process in your cells, helping to shuttle fatty acids into the mitochondria to be used as fuel. This means that L-carnitine benefits a variety of bodily functions, supporting everything from your weight goals to improved athletic performance. So, which form of L-carnitine is the right for you?

Types of Carnitine: Which Carnitine is Best for Me?

Did you know that there are multiple types of carnitine, each with its unique benefits? L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine are two commonly known forms that offer different advantages. Let’s take a look at some of the other forms of carnitine and how they can work to support your goals.

L-Carnitine

L-carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid that is important for energy production. It helps to transport fatty acids within cells to the mitochondria, where they can be oxidised and used for energy. L-carnitine is often found in pre-workouts to support energy and performance or as a standalone supplement to support your weight goals. Among its range of benefits, it can support cognitive function, exercise performance, nerve regeneration, metabolic health and kidney & heart health (Lewis, C. 2020).

So, should you take L-carnitine? If you’re training frequently and find you’re lacking the energy to perform at your best, L-carnitine can provide that extra fuel. Because it is stimulant-free, you can also utilise the L-carnitine benefits when you train later in the afternoon, and it is ideal if you’re working towards specific body goals when you train. 

Acetyl L-Carnitine

Acetyl L-carnitine is a form of L-carnitine that is unique because, unlike L-carnitine, acetyl L-carnitine has the added benefit of crossing the blood-brain barrier, making it effective in supporting cognitive function. This compound can support memory, focus, and mental clarity, making it a popular choice for those looking to boost their brain power. In addition, acetyl L-carnitine may also provide benefits for physical performance, helping to reduce fatigue during exercise and supporting healthy muscle function. Commonly referred to as ALCAR, this form of L-carnitine has been studied for its effects on Alzheimer’s disease, high blood sugar and more (Metcalf, E. 2023).

Whether you’re working a job that requires focus, studying hard for exams, or trying to improve your overall mental performance, acetyl L-carnitine can provide a useful platform to help you progress towards your goals.

L-Carnitine Tartrate

L-carnitine tartrate is a form of L-carnitine best known for its ability to support athletic performance. L-carnitine tartrate is the most effective form for sports performance due to its rapid absorption. But L-carnitine benefits are not limited to athletes; it can also support muscle soreness and recovery by reducing markers of muscle damage (Mawer, R et al. 2023). 

If you’re an athlete, or your focus is on physical performance, then this form of L-carnitine is most suitable for your goals. By supporting athletic performance and recovery, this form can be taken before exercise with its rapid absorption, helping you get the best out of every training session.

Propionyl L-Carnitine 

Propionyl L-carnitine is commonly used as a natural remedy for a variety of health issues. This supplement is a form of L-carnitine that is primarily found in the heart, skeletal muscles, and blood vessels. The propionyl L-carnitine benefits include supporting blood flow, reducing muscle fatigue, and alleviating symptoms of peripheral vascular disease (WebMD. 2023). 

Propionyl L-carnitine is used to support energy production, heart function, and muscle movement and is ideal for anybody looking to support their performance while keeping their heart health under consideration.

The Best Carnitine Supplements:

Whether you're an athlete looking to support your energy levels or trying to work towards certain body goals, L-carnitine could be the answer you've been searching for. Our supplements are designed with clean, quality ingredients that promote optimal nutrient uptake and support your overall health. Take a look at the best L-carnitine supplements on offer at Evolve.

Carnitine RX

Evolve Carnitine RX is a vegan-friendly, stimulant-free, and low sugar formula packed with the benefits of three different types of carnitine. Derived from plants, it offers a clean source of energy while supporting cognitive function and helping you reach your body goals. By transporting chemicals into the mitochondria for energy production, this formula can support performance and energy levels during rigorous training sessions. Suitable for both men and women of all fitness levels and sporting disciplines, Evolve Carnitine RX is ideal for anyone looking for a mind and body boost, whether it's for a morning workout or to stay focused at work. 

ALC

Evolve ALC is a versatile supplement that offers a range of benefits for various individuals. Whether you're working, training, gaming, or studying, acetyl L-carnitine can support your focus and energy levels without the need for stimulants. By utilising the power of acetylated L-carnitine, this formula supports clean energy while assisting in the transportation of crucial chemicals to your mitochondria for optimal energy production. It's perfect for those looking for an extra boost to stack with their pre-workout, individuals needing extra clarity during late-night study sessions, or anyone seeking a solution for a lacklustre day in the office.

L-Carnitine 

Evolve L-Carnitine is our standard L-carnitine formula. L-carnitine plays a critical role in energy production, among other things, making it a valuable addition to your routine. Evolve L-Carnitine offers a 100% pure, concentrated form in its biologically active base form, allowing for optimal benefits. Whether you're training in the evening, need a pick-me-up at work, or aiming for better performance, L-carnitine provides a natural helping hand. This formula contains zero artificial flavours, sugars, and unnecessary additives. 

The Run Down

L-carnitine is a versatile compound that offers numerous benefits for your fitness and health goals. Whether you're looking to support your energy levels and performance or you’re targeting certain body goals, L-carnitine can help you achieve your goals by supporting metabolism, energy production, and performance. If you're serious about improving your overall fitness and health, incorporating L-carnitine into your supplement regimen can be a game-changer. 

For more information about how L-carnitine can support your energy, cognitive performance, and body goals, chat with our knowledgeable team at Evolve Nutrition today or reach out online.

References

Lewis, C. 2020, ‘What is Carnitine, and Which Type is Best?’ 1and1, accessed December 2023, https://www.1and1life.com/blog/what-is-carnitine/ 

Metcalf, E. 2023, ‘Acetyl-L-Carnitine’, WebMD, accessed December 2023, https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/acetyl-l-carnitine-uses-risks 

Mawer, R et al. 2023, ‘L-Carnitine: Benefits, Side Effects, Sources, and Dosage’, Healthline, accessed December 2023, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/l-carnitine 

WebMD. 2023, ‘Propionyl-L-Carnitine - Uses, Side Effects, and More’, WebMD, accessed December 2023, https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-803/propionyl-l-carnitine