It is an essential cofactor in a variety of biochemical steps involved in lipid metabolism. L- carnitine is the biologically active form of carnitine. It is important in the production of energy. Carnitine specifically participates in the transfer of long-chain fatty acids across the inner mitochondrial membrane in preparation for their subsequent metabolism.
It is similar to a vitamin with the exception that under normal conditions higher animal synthesize their total requirement with their bodies, hence, it is unnecessary to supply this substance in food on a daily basis.
Supplementation appears to build stamina and endurance and may therefore enhance exercise performance - particularly in people with low levels of this nutrient.
Carnitine is found in varying concentration in breast milk and infant formulas.
What is carnitine?