Studies on the beneficial effects of L-carnitine on the cardiovascular
system began as early as 1937. L-camitine benefits the cardiovascular system in several
ways. First, it is responsible for clearing fatty acids (triglycerides) out of the blood
into the mitochondria (the energy powerhouse of the cells) to be broken down. Fatty acids
are the major source for production of energy in the heart muscles. Therefore, heart
muscles are particularly vulnerable to L-carnitine deficiency. Studies show that heart
muscle levels of L-carnitine are decreased in the following conditions: angina pectoris
(lack of oxygen to the heart causing chest pain), myocardial infarction (heart attack) and
chronic coronary insufficiency (weak heart muscle resulting in lack of oxygen to the body
causing symptoms, such as breathlessness, fatigue, poor circulation). These studies have
demonstrated the following important functions of L-carnitine: increasing cardiac output,
improving heart muscle function, stimulating energy supply to the heart, increasing
endurance, enhancing cardiac performance and regulating heart arrythmias.
L-Carnitine has been approved by the FDA under the name Carnitor
as as a therapy for low energy levels, congestive heart disease, and other diseases
associated with low cellular energy levels. Numerous published studies have shown that
L-Carnitine is effective in treating a wide range of diseases including the neurological
diseases of aging, immune dysfunction, and diabetic complications. |