Amino acid

L-Carnitine

Amino acid studied for fatty acid metabolism, exercise recovery, cellular energy. How it works, the dose and timing studied, what it interacts with, and the research behind the grade.

Grade B evidence moderate: promising but smaller or mixed human trials Also known as Acetyl-L-carnitine, L-carnitine L-tartrate
All compounds
Best for Fatty acid metabolism, Exercise recovery, Cellular energy
Typical dose 1–3 g daily (L-carnitine L-tartrate for exercise; ALCAR for cognition)
Timing With a carbohydrate-containing meal to aid uptake
Category Amino acid
How it works

What it is and the mechanism

Shuttles long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for beta-oxidation and energy production. The acetyl form crosses the blood-brain barrier. Supplementation may support recovery and reduce exercise-induced muscle damage markers.

Dose and timing

When and how much to take

The dose below reflects the range used in published research. Match the form alongside the milligrams. Set your own wake and bed times to map the timing onto your day.

Timing visualizer

When to take L-Carnitine

Dose: 1–3 g daily (L-carnitine L-tartrate for exercise; ALCAR for cognition). Set your own wake and bed times to map the guidance onto your day.

12a6a12p6pDAY1 dose
12 pmAnytime. Timing is flexible. Pick a slot you can keep consistent.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Before you stack it

Interactions and cautions

Read these before combining this with other supplements or medication. The risk is rarely the headline, it is the interaction you did not check.

Interactions
  • Thyroid hormone, carnitine may blunt thyroid action at high doses
  • Anticoagulants, possible additive effect
Cautions
  • High oral doses can cause a fishy body odor
  • GI upset possible at higher doses
Stacking

What pairs well, and what to keep apart

Derived from shared topics, complementary categories, and the interaction list. Introduce one compound at a time so you can tell what works.

Keep apart from

No direct compound conflicts derived. Still check the interactions list above against your medication.

Explore more

Compounds in the same topics

Often considered alongside this one. Each carries its own evidence grade.