Antioxidant Activity of L-Carnitine Studied

L-carnitine was shown in a recent study to enhance total antioxidant capacity in healthy subjects. L-carnitine is a derivative of the amino acid lysine that helps the body utilize fat for energy. L-carnitine is synthesized by the liver and kidneys and absorbed from the diet in the intestines.

The intent of this study was to investigate the potential correlation between plasma L-carnitine levels and antioxidant capacity in healthy individuals. Twelve healthy subjects were supplemented with a single-dose of 2 grams of L-carnitine. Plasma concentrations of L-carnitine were measured at the beginning of the study and multiple times over 24 hours after supplementation. The subjects were also assessed for plasma total antioxidative capacity and plasma concentrations of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase.

The study showed that plasma L-carnitine concentration peaked at approximately 3.4 hours after administration. There was a gradual increase over the first 3.5 hours after L-carnitine administration of plasma superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase and total antioxidative capacity. These levels returned to levels seen prior to supplementation within 24 hours after supplementation. The study demonstrated a positive correlation between plasma L-carnitine concentration and antioxidant index of plasma superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase and total antioxidative capacity.

The researches stated, “In conclusion, L-carnitine increases activities of antioxidant enzymes and the total antioxidant capacity in healthy subjects.” The authors also stated that L-carnitine may be useful in conditions with excessive oxidative stress.

Reference:

Cao Y, Qu HJ, Li P, Wang CB, Wang LX, Han ZW. Single dose administration of L-carnitine improves antioxidant activities in healthy subjects. Tohoku J Exp Med. 2011;224(3):209-13.