L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine is made in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine. It increases the use of fat as an energy source by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are 'burned' to release energy for body functions. L-carnitine is found naturally in avocados, breast milk, dairy products, red meats (namely lamb and beef), and tempeh (fermented soybean product).

Carnitine plays an important role in preventing fatty buildup, especially in the heart, liver, and skeletal muscles, and it helps keep blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in check. A deficiency of L-Carnitine can cause muscle fatigue, cramps, or low blood-sugar levels. The heart depends on adequate concentrations of carnitine for normal heart function. A carnitine derivative an ester called acetyl-l-carnitine, is thought to slow the aging of the brain as well as other nerve cells.