Carnitine: Its Crucial Role in Metabolic Health and Cardiovascular Function

Carnitine is an amino acid derivative synthesized from lysine and methionine that is vital for fatty acid metabolism and energy production. Predominantly in its L-form, carnitine facilitates the transport of long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for β-oxidation, which is necessary for adenosine triphosphate production. While carnitine deficiency is rare, even among vegetarians, its supplementation could be a promising avenue to address various cardiovascular issues, including ischemia, arrhythmias, and cardiomyopathy. Evidence strongly suggests that carnitine can remarkably improve cardiac function, reduce biomarkers of heart failure, and enhance metabolic profiles in ­conditions such as chronic heart failure and myocardial infarction. However, there are concerns about the potential for enlarged trimethylamine-N-oxide levels and atherosclerotic markers with supplementation. This review explores the effects of carnitine supplementation on cardiovascular health, its pathophysiology, and its clinical applications.