l-Carnitine Tartrate:

Tartrate, naturally found in some foods, acts to stabilize l-carnitine. l-Carnitine is a dipeptide found in great abundance in the body, especially the heart and skeletal muscle. It maintains efficient fat utilization by transporting long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria where they can be broken down by a process called beta oxidation (fat metabolism) to produce energy (1,2). A recent study reported that oral l-carnitine supplementation in healthy subjects promotes optimal long-chain fatty acid oxidation (1). Additionally, l-carnitine helps to clear short and medium chain fatty acids from the mitochondria that would otherwise accumulate over time. This helps to keep metabolic processes running smoothly and efficiently. l-Carnitine also promotes cardiovascular health by supporting ventricular function and antioxidant activity (2-5). Additionally research also suggests a role for l-carnitine in supporting muscle repair after strenuous exercise. The results of one study indicated an attenuation of muscle strain and fatigue when exercisers were given l-carnitine-l-tartrate supplements prior to completing a high repetition strength regimen, suggesting l-carnitine may help reduce post-exercise recovery time (6).

Pure Encapsulations offers l-Carnitine, providing 340 mg carnitine per capsule from 500 mg l-carnitine-l-tartrate. Recommended dosage is 2-4 capsules per day, in divided doses, between meals.

l-Carnitine fumarate promotes healthy fat metabolism, oxygenation of the heart muscle, and enhances high intensity training much like l-carnitine-l-tartrate. However, unlike most forms of carnitine, l-carnitine fumarate provides dual support for energy production and cardiovascular function (7) in addition to providing a stable form of carnitine. Fumarate is a key compound in the Krebs cycle, which is the major energy-producing pathway preceding the electron transport chain. This intimate connection with energy metabolism makes l-carnitine fumarate an excellent supplement for enhanced muscle and fat metabolism support.

Pure Encapsulations offers l-Carnitine fumarate providing 340 mg carnitine per capsule from 586 mg l-carnitine fumarate. Recommended dosage is 2-4 capsules per day, in divided doses, between meals.

This acetylated form of l-carnitine is supportive of healthy mental and cognitive function (8). The acetyl group is needed for acetylcholine synthesis, a key neurotransmitter for healthy cognitive function, memory, and attention (8-11). Several clinical trials have reported improved scoring on memory, attention, verbal, and logic examinations in those volunteers receiving acetyl-1-carnitine (9-11). Additionally, both the acetyl group and l-carnitine help promote the generation of energy. The acetyl group can break off and form acetyl CoA, important for most metabolic pathways in the body, mitochondrial function, and cell membrane stability (8). Furthermore, investigators found the supplement to be well tolerated (9-11).

Pure Encapsulations offers Acetyl-l-Carnitine in 500 mg and 250 mg capsules. Recommended dosage is 1-2 (500 mg) or 2-4 (250 mg) capsules in divided doses, between meals.