L-Carnitine is a vitamin-like molecule that serves numerous functions in the body. Its main function is to stimulate the breakdown of fats. L-Carnitine is an alpha-hydroxy acid that is primarily located in the muscle. Carnitine is the critical player for the transport of fatty acids into mitochondria. Mitochondria are the powerhouses that produce energy in the cell that the body needs to function properly. The energy is produced when fats are burned in the mitochondria. Since mitochondria need oxygen to burn fat, it follows that supplementation with carnitine ensures adequate supply of oxygen to the muscle. The supply of oxygen becomes extremely important when one exercises. Intense exercise for longer periods of time on a regular basis results in the loss of carnitine. Therefore, carnitine must be replaced in order for the muscle to remain toned and healthy.
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