- L-Carnitine is essential in the process of transporting fats into cells for energy (ATP) production, Specifically, carnitine is required for transporting long chain fatty acids and their derivatives into the mitochondria of cells.
- The mitochondria are the tiny little powerhouses present in each cell that convert fatty acids into the ultimate chemical energy source of the body, known as ATP. Mitochondria are abundant in the cells of all organs that have a large energy requirement, including semen and the heart, epididymis, kidney, skeletal muscle and liver.
- Carnitine is also believed to have other important roles, such as preventing the toxic accumulation of acety
- CoA compounds, These compounds are trapped as carnitine esters and transported from the muscle to the liver for processing, and to the kidney for excretion. So carnitine plays a protective role in preventing metabolic acidosis.
- cats do not synthesize L-Carnitine at all and are 100% dependant on dietary sources of L-carnitine.
- L-carnitine is an essential aid in the treatment of obesity as it aids in the metabolic conversion of fat.
- Carnitine is vital for the management of cardiac disease in both dogs and cats as the cardiac muscle is entirely dependent on fatty acids as a source of energy.
- Carnitine is an important aid in the management of hepatic lipidosis and hepatitis.
- Kidney disease also warrants supplementation, since L-carnitine is synthesized to some extent in the kidneys.
- It is a necessary supplement for older dogs and has been proven to reverse mental aging and improve cognition in older dogs.
- L-Carnitine is a valuable aid for breeding dogs and cats. Male animals are benefited with increased sperm motility and maturation.
- Skeletal muscle is the storehouse of L-carnitine. Dogs with skeletal muscle dysfunction greatly benefit from supplementation.