Understanding the Controversy Surrounding L-Carnitine Sport Supplements

Sport supplements are popular among exercise enthusiasts, with L-carnitine being a controversial one due to its conflicting effects on muscle recovery and cardiovascular health. A recent study suggests that consuming pomegranate alongside L-carnitine may help counter its negative impacts.

L-carnitine is a naturally occurring compound in the body, also available as a dietary supplement and added to certain products like energy drinks and protein powders. While L-carnitine from natural sources like meat is less likely to cause harm, supplements can pose risks when gut microbes convert them into a compound called TMAO, linked to cardiovascular issues.

Research conducted at the Quadram Institute in England indicates that a pomegranate extract rich in polyphenols can reduce the production of TMA by gut microbes when consumed with L-carnitine. This finding suggests that including polyphenol-rich foods in the diet, such as pomegranate, raspberries, and walnuts, may mitigate the harmful effects of L-carnitine supplements.

Further studies are underway to evaluate the effectiveness of pomegranate extract in reducing TMAO production in humans taking L-carnitine supplements. Incorporating ellagitannin-rich foods into the diet could potentially enhance the health benefits of L-carnitine supplementation.

According to the source: Medical Xpress.