What is L-carnitine?
Naturally synthesised in the body, L-carnitine promotes the transport of fatty acids to the mitochondria that make up the body's cells. Therefore, it is important for the proper functioning of the muscles. This role of fat combustion in the mitochondria provides an additional energy boost. L-carnitine is often regarded as an amino acid, but it is not.
On the other hand, L-carnitine is synthesised in the body from the two following amino acids: L-lysine and L-methionine. It is from these amino acids that the body will synthesize the quantity of L-carnitine it needs. These two amino acids are found in animal-based products such as meat, but only in small quantities in plant-based products. Ingesting a drink with a high L-carnitine content can help provide the necessary quantities to promote their reactivity.
L-lysine and L-methionine are amino acids that provide the energy needed to fight fatigue. Their effects do not stop there, as they also promote the recovery and construction of muscle tissue.
What are the benefits of L-carnitine?
There are numerous benefits of L-carnitine on the body. First of all, its first function within the body is to act as a fat burner. L-carnitine accelerates the transport of fatty acids to the mitochondria which are commonly known as the energy centres of the cells. They contribute to the production of energy and are present in the body cells, but large quantities are especially found in the muscles. By stimulating the transport of fatty acids to the mitochondria, L-carnitine stimulates increased fat burning. L-carnitine drinks are therefore ideal for weight loss.
In addition, by triggering fat burning, L-carnitine encourages the production of more energy to be available to the body. Its effect on boosting energy does not stop there. In fact, by burning more fat, L-carnitine helps to limit the use of glycogen stocks. These reserves are the ones that the body usually uses before tackling fatty acids. Therefore, the intake of L-carnitine makes it possible to burn more fat than glycogen.
This control of glycogen stocks allows the body to benefit from a second source of energy. For athletes or active people, the conserved glycogen stocks will allow you to go further in your training sessions, without loss of intensity. Optimised energy supply due to fat and glycogen combustion is best for long efforts and sessions that require a lot of endurance.
By stimulating fat burning, the body consumes glycogen more slowly. This provides more energy supply for a longer period of time. Also, carbohydrates present in the body for longer periods of time reduce fatigue while optimising energy intake. As a result, L-carnitine will also promote recovery by limiting the aches and pains that can appear after a workout session. Even when working out irregularly, L-carnitine will stimulate fat burning, a better management of fat stocks and give an energy boost.
Moreover, by favouring the burning of fat to the detriment of glycogen, L-carnitine improves the circulation of oxygen in the blood. The allocation of glycogen stocks will lead to a higher level of oxygen in the blood. This effect will result in a great boost of energy in the muscles. L-carnitine is therefore an ally for the proper functioning of the muscles and the heart.
When to take L-carnitine?
Practical and easy to take anywhere you go, L-carnitine drinks permit rapid absorption and assimilation of L-carnitine into the body. Their convenient sizes allow you to drink them anytime throughout the day. If they are used in addition to a workout session, it is best to ingest them just before the session in order to optimise their effects on fat burning and energy production. L-Carnitine can also be used as an effective supplement for non-athletes. It will help in the management of fatty stock throughout the day.
At QNT, we propose to you the actif L-carnitine 2000 mg, an L-carnitine drink available in three different refreshing flavours: cranberry, orange and lime. Low in calories and no added sugar, its large bottle size is perfect for keeping hydrated throughout the day. Thanks to its high concentration of L-carnitine, this crisp fresh drink will act as a fat burner at the same as providing energy. L-carnitine is found in very small quantities in plant based products which makes it also suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
