Who cannot take carnitine?

Understanding Who Should Avoid Carnitine
Carnitine, particularly in its L-carnitine form, is a compound that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria for oxidation. While it is often marketed as a supplement for weight loss and athletic performance, certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid its use altogether due to potential health risks.
Individuals with Peripheral Vascular Disease
One of the primary groups advised against taking carnitine are those suffering from peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Research indicates that carnitine supplementation can potentially exacerbate symptoms in individuals with this condition, which affects blood flow to the limbs and can lead to pain and mobility issues. The increased energy metabolism that carnitine promotes may not be beneficial in the context of compromised vascular health.
People with Thyroid Disorders
Individuals with thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, should also be cautious. Carnitine can interfere with thyroid hormone levels, potentially leading to complications in those already managing thyroid-related issues. The interaction between carnitine and thyroid function can complicate treatment and management strategies.
Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
Pregnant and breastfeeding women are generally advised to avoid carnitine supplements unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider. The effects of carnitine supplementation during pregnancy and lactation are not well-studied, and the potential risks to fetal or infant health remain unclear.
Those with Kidney Issues
Individuals with kidney disease or impaired kidney function should also refrain from taking carnitine supplements. The kidneys play a significant role in metabolizing and excreting carnitine, and supplementation could lead to an accumulation of the compound in the body, potentially resulting in toxicity.
Conclusion
While carnitine can offer benefits for certain populations, it is crucial for individuals with peripheral vascular disease, thyroid disorders, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with kidney issues to consult healthcare professionals before considering supplementation. Understanding these contraindications can help prevent adverse effects and ensure that carnitine is used safely and effectively.

Is it bad to take L-carnitine everyday?

According to the NIH, common doses range from 3 milligrams (mg) to 5,000 mg daily, with an average 14% to 18% uptake rate. In other words, your body doesn’t actually absorb all of the L-carnitine in the supplement. Experts agree that supplementation is considered generally safe, even long-term.

Is L-carnitine linked to heart disease?

Variants in l-carnitine related genes, SLC22A4 and SLC22A5, are associated with ischemic heart disease [6]. People with variants in the SLC22A5 gene (often referred to as carnitine transporter deficiency) which results in carnitine deficiency can have skeletal myopathy and/or cardiomyopathy [7].

Is L-carnitine bad for your gut?

Carnitine has vital roles in the endogenous metabolism of short chain fatty acids. It can protect and support gut microbial species, and some dietary fibers can reduce the available iron involved in the bioactivity of carnitine.

Does carnitine affect your heart?

l-Carnitine facilitates transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondrial matrix, triggering cardioprotective effects through reduced oxidative stress, inflammation and necrosis of cardiac myocytes.

What is the bad side of L-carnitine?

The danger of anything depends on the dose and delivery: how much you take, and how. Side effects of L-carnitine include “nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, heartburn, diarrhea, and seizures. It can also cause the urine, breath, and sweat to have a ‘fishy’ odor.”

Is carnitine bad for high blood pressure?

Heart health
A 2019 review found that L-carnitine significantly reduced diastolic blood pressure, especially in people with overweight and obesity. A 2017 analysis showed that L-carnitine may improve heart function and decrease symptoms in people with congestive heart failure.

Is carnitine hard on liver?

L-carnitine may have therapeutic effects on liver diseases, including NASH, cirrhosis, HCC, alcoholic fatty liver disease, and viral hepatitis. In addition, L-carnitine supplementation is safe, low cost, and easy to administer.

What medications should not be taken with L-carnitine?

Interactions

• Acenocoumarol (Sintrom) interacts with L-CARNITINE. Acenocoumarol is used to slow blood clotting.
• Thyroid hormone interacts with L-CARNITINE. L-carnitine seems to decrease how well thyroid hormone works in the body.
• Warfarin (Coumadin) interacts with L-CARNITINE. Warfarin is used to slow blood clotting.

Can L-carnitine cause heart palpitations?

Some research suggests that L-carnitine may help prevent or reduce symptoms of an overactive thyroid, such as insomnia, nervousness, heart palpitations, and tremors.

Is carnitine bad for kidneys?

Several types of research have demonstrated no adverse effects of LC supplementation under its recommended dosages on kidney health. However, several case studies conducted on individuals with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis reported a correlation between LC supplementation and renal dysfunctions.