In a study of 18 overweight subjects, carnitine greatly increased weight loss. The subjects were split into two groups of 9. For 12 weeks, both groups ate a healthy diet and performed moderate exercise. One group was given 2000 mg of carnitine, and the other a placebo. In the placebo group, the average weight loss after 12 weeks was one pound. In the carnitine group, weight loss averaged 11 pounds. That’s an eleven-fold increase in weight loss, simply by increasing carnitine levels. Body fat percentage levels also decreased markedly in the carnitine group.
However, not everyone will experience such a dramatic effect of weight loss with carnitine. In a recent study, individuals taking carnitine for 8 weeks did not experience increased weight loss. So, how does one know if it is even worth trying this supplement. Well, in my experience, individuals following a reduced carbohydrate diet, and incorporating aerobics and strength training, usually find it easier to lose weight while taking carnitine on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before breakfast, when compared to those following the same protocol minus L-carnitine.
We hope all is well with you and that you find this information useful.
Articles of interest:
- Rebouche CJ, Paulson DJ. Carnitine Metabolism and Function in Humans. Ann Rev Nutr 1986; 6:41-66.
- Avogaro P, Bon GB, Cazzolato G, Rorai E. Acute Effects of L-carnitine on FFA and Beta-OH-Butyrate in Man. Pharmacol Res Commun 1981; 13 (5): 443-50.
- Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2000 Jun;10(2):199-207
Good Luck!
Robert L. Pastore, Ph.D., CNC, CN
Senior Nutritionist at Metabolism.com
Could you please provide more details on this study? What institute carried it out? What year was conducted? Do you have a link to the full study?
Interesting story about L-Carnitine. I looked up the references and I think you should also list the title of the third article: “L-Carnitine supplementation combined with aerobic training DOES NOT promote weight loss in moderately obese women”.
Thanks for the tip, i lose 10 lbs in 7 days, followed the meal plan given by the Cosmo Body, im currently taking Cosmo Body L- Carnitine Supplement
I started taking alli 3 days ago and today was the first time I noticed anything different happening with my body. First, I had to go to the bathroom really bad after my breakfast+alli and there were floating drops of fat. Then, I cannot stop passing really nasty smelling gas, and I’m continuously afraid to pass gas for fear I will pass something more. However, seeing the fat come out kind of makes me happy. Fat is good for you, but I don’t mind sending a bit of it down the shute. This experiment is pretty cool so far. And it does make me watch what I eat a little more.
You are probably taken way in excess. I have never had any side effect.
Matin, if you’re shitting or pissing fat then you should see a doctor. That is NOT a healthy result for any kind of supplement.
If you really passed “fat” you are probably dying, or lying. I will guess the latter.
I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND anything that CAUSES MALABSORPTION which can quickly lead to MALNUTRITION. This medication is designed to prevent absorption of nutrients (fat specifically in this case) but it also can interfere with fat soluble vitamin status. Drug induced nutrient depletions is a serious issue to be considered. Also, instead of trying to not absorb fat, the best thing to do is find out which fats are healthiest for us and eat them in moderation!
Jason,
About the Alli that Matin takes, fat if absorbed in your body and is then released by dumping. It’s orange and it stinks.
It is a supplement that should only be taken if you are in perfect health due to its contraindications and, preferably even if you are in perfect health, only after seeking advice from your physician.
it only has been a week of me taking godex, i lost 6 lbs no side effects so far. thank you for sharing your knowledge that i should take it 30 mins before meal. my doctor didnot instruct me about that
Should i be taking the whole 2g of l-carnitine in just 1 dose beforebreakfast? or i can divide it in 2 doses? Thanks.
Has anyone here tried using carnitine for weight loss?
This does not work I hate to say it.
L-carnatine will not help with weightloss in moderatly obese women if those women have either insulin resistance, hyper thoroid or PCOSmainly with any of those 3 female hormones are thrown “out of wack”….best way to lose weight in moderately obese women with any of the above 3 problems mentioned should take metformin bewarned tho it will increase your fertility
L-Carnitine helps if you are on a fat burning diet,meaning lower carbs than normal,same amount of protein and non saturated fat like oil,omega 3 etc.
500mg-1000mg prior to workout helps burning a bit more fat.
No supplement can be compared to healthy nutrition diet though.If you do not eat properly do not use it.
i have table form 45 capsules 499mg How do I take them and how many a day for fat loss and I train at the gym.
Jason and Matin, while taking Allli you will notice fat/oil floating on the top of the water with your shit.. however, this is normal and if anyone has looked up or spoken to a doctor about this they will tell you that you will or may need to wear a pantie liner to protect yourself if you think you are going to have gas it may be poop. they also suggest to take extra clothing to work and some in your car just in the event you poop your pants. so before telling someone they are full of shit.. think twice do your research and by all means if you are a doctor go back to school
When is the best time to take L-Carnitine. Before workout? Before meal? At bedtime? Empty stomach?? Please advise.
i would greatly appreciate if someone could explain the differences between Acetyl L-Carnitine & L-Carnitine Fumarate.
I wish to both reduce my weight & and fell less lethargic
thanks in advance
adrian
Can I take Acetyl l carnitine with tumeric?
I’ve been taking L-Carnitine for about 6 weeks and can see a HUGE difference in my energy level and i’ve gone from a size 6/8 to a 4. However, I also do a 30-40 minute cardio workout either internal training (walk/run) or a brisk walk 5 to 6 days a week. I always through in some stretching and a quick abb workout and it TRULY WORKS! Don’t give up on this product because it does work if your consistant and you workout/eat well.
Best of Luck everyone!
MelissaO, how much are you taking, what form, and when? I am curious because I just started a few days ago. I am on Atkins, exercise almost every day, doing an hour on an inclined treadmill, drink only water and started taking the L-Carnitine. I am taking the liquid form,1100mg, twice a day, one hour before eating or workouts. Although it’s only been 4days, I am anxious to see some results. I read that for weight loss 3,000-5,000 mg should be taken daily. I am happy to hear that it has worked for you and am hoping it will for me too!
JESSE WELL I JUST STARTED TODAY .I’M EXERCISE ALMOST 1 HOUR A DAY WALK WITH MY BABY AND I BUY L-CARNITINE 1500MG LIGUID, TWICE A DAY
Can we hear from few people that have taken it for over 3 months? Can you please report how it worked for you? Did you lose weight? If so how much?
plz i would like to know what exactly should eat with the L’Carnitine?and 30min before breakfast and lunch but how about the 30 minutes of tredmile when it should take place?plz really would like to know.
its been 6 days and no difference, seems there is sthg wrong with my scedule.
I am a Doctor who works with lots of weight loss patients. I sometimes giver patients L-carnitine intramuscular injections and the results are good. However, I have not personally seen and significant results with oral supplementation. It may have to do with dose/absorption levels. The injections have been used in race horses and race dogs for a long time. I have found that whatever they use tend to be very effective supplements.
Hi everyone I just came back from a long trip and put on some weight. Considering taking L-carnitine to complement my workout routine. Any advise on brands or other supplements that may help enhance my weight loss? Thanks!
I’ve been taking L-C for about a month now, and I feel great. It’s also helped with my sex drive – I wake up almost every morning now with a huge hard-on. I’ve been having to see whores and skanks to satisfy my crazy-awesome sex drive. It’s almost like I’m on Viagra or something, I can go for hours now
Anyway, thats the only side-affect I’ve had, and its been a really pleasant experience 
Lost 15 pounds so far, btw.