Does L-carnitine help with weight loss?

Introduction

L-carnitine is a compound that plays a crucial role in the transportation of fatty acids into the mitochondria for oxidation, and it is often marketed as a weight loss supplement. The efficacy of L-carnitine in promoting weight loss has been the subject of numerous studies, with mixed results. This synthesis aims to provide a cohesive analysis of the research findings on whether L-carnitine helps with weight loss.

Key Insights

Modest Weight Loss in Overweight/Obese Adults:
- L-carnitine supplementation has been shown to result in modest weight loss, a decrease in BMI, and a reduction in fat mass in overweight and obese adults . However, the effect size is generally small and may not be clinically significant.
No Significant Effect in Specific Populations:
- Studies have found that L-carnitine does not significantly affect weight loss in specific populations such as moderately obese women undergoing aerobic training, valproate-treated bipolar patients, and animals on energy-deficient diets.
Enhanced Weight Loss with Lifestyle Modifications:
- L-carnitine appears to be more effective when combined with other lifestyle modifications such as exercise and dietary changes . This suggests that L-carnitine alone may not be sufficient for significant weight loss.
Inconsistent Results Across Studies:
- The results of various studies are inconsistent, with some showing significant weight loss and others showing no effect. This inconsistency may be due to differences in study design, population, dosage, and duration of supplementation .
Potential Side Effects and Safety Concerns:
- Some studies have reported side effects such as nausea and diarrhea in participants taking L-carnitine. Additionally, there are concerns about the long-term safety of L-carnitine supplementation, particularly regarding its metabolites and potential cardiometabolic risks.

Conclusion

The research on L-carnitine and weight loss presents a mixed picture. While some studies suggest that L-carnitine can lead to modest weight loss, particularly in overweight and obese individuals, the overall effect is small and may not be clinically significant. The efficacy of L-carnitine appears to be enhanced when combined with lifestyle modifications such as exercise and dietary changes. However, the results are inconsistent across different studies, and there are potential side effects and safety concerns that need to be considered. Therefore, L-carnitine may not be a reliable standalone solution for weight loss.

Does L-carnitine help with weight loss?

Summary

Consensus Meter

Introduction

Key Insights

Conclusion

Sources and full results

L-Carnitine supplementation combined with aerobic training does not promote weight loss in moderately obese women.

L-Carnitine supplementation combined with aerobic training does not significantly promote weight loss in moderately overweight women.

Beneficial Effects of L-Carnitine Supplementation for Weight Management in Overweight and Obese Adults: An Updated Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

L-carnitine supplementation may improve body weight and BMI in overweight and obese individuals when combined with lifestyle modifications.

Effects of l-carnitine supplementation on weight loss and body composition: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 37 randomized controlled clinical trials with dose-response analysis.

L-carnitine supplementation provides a modest reducing effect on body weight, BMI, and fat mass, especially among adults with overweight/obesity, but not on waist circumference and body fat percent.

Comment on ‘The effect of (l‐)carnitine on weight loss in adults: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials’

(L-)carnitine may not be an effective drug for weight loss in adults, as it is not clear whether its safety and effectiveness are established.

The effect of (L‐)carnitine on weight loss in adults: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials

Carnitine supplementation significantly leads to weight loss and decreased body mass index in adults, but the weight loss effect decreases over time.

The clinical and metabolic effects of rapid weight loss in obese pet cats and the influence of supplemental oral L-carnitine.

Rapid weight loss in obese cats using a canned diet and L-carnitine is safe and effective, with L-carnitine significantly increasing the rate of weight loss and improving carnitine levels.

Carnitine does not improve weight loss outcomes in valproate-treated bipolar patients consuming an energy-restricted, low-fat diet.

L-carnitine supplementation at the dose prescribed in this study did not improve weight loss outcomes in valproate-treated bipolar patients consuming an energy-restricted, low-fat diet.

L-carnitine ameliorated weight loss in fasting therapy: A propensity score-matched study.

L-carnitine infusion enhances weight loss and maintains blood pressure stability in fasting therapy patients.

Effect of L-Carnitine on Weight Loss and Body Composition of Rats Fed a Hypocaloric Diet

L-carnitine supplementation did not show a positive effect on weight loss and body composition in rats fed an energy-deficient diet, as their endogenous carnitine synthesis was sufficient for efficient -oxidation of fatty acids during the catabolic phase.

L-Carnitine intake prevents irregular feeding-induced obesity and lipid metabolism disorder.

L-carnitine supplementation can prevent obesity and lipid metabolic disorders caused by irregular feeding patterns in mice.

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