L-Carnitine

L-carnitine is a compound the body makes from the amino acids lysine and methionine, and it is also found in foods such as red meat. As a supplement it comes in several forms, and this range brings them all together: liquid L-carnitine shots and bottles, capsules and tablets, effervescent tablets, and acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR).

The main forms you will see on labels are L-carnitine tartrate (L-carnitine L-tartrate, common in capsules and powders), L-carnitine base in liquids, and acetyl-L-carnitine, a separate form often sold in capsules. Liquids such as Nutrex L-Carnitine 3000 and 5% Nutrition Liquid L-Carnitine are flavoured and measured by the capful, while capsules from NOW Foods and others are unflavoured. Some products combine carnitine with other ingredients, such as chromium or green tea, so read the label carefully. There are no authorised health claims for L-carnitine, so we describe these products by form and strength only. Our L-carnitine guide explains the forms in more detail.

How to compare L-carnitine products

  • Form: L-carnitine tartrate, L-carnitine base or acetyl-L-carnitine.
  • Amount per serving: compare milligrams of carnitine per serving, not per bottle.
  • Format: liquids are flavoured and quick to take; capsules are unflavoured and easy to carry.

Related: Fat Loss & Diet · Amino Acids, EAA & BCAA · L-carnitine explained

FAQs

What is the difference between L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine?

Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) is L-carnitine with an acetyl group attached. They are sold as separate supplements, so check which form a product contains and how much per serving.

Is liquid L-carnitine better than capsules?

Neither is better by default. Liquids are flavoured and easy to measure; capsules are unflavoured and convenient to carry. Compare the amount of carnitine per serving.

When should I take L-carnitine?

Follow the directions on the product label, which state the serving size and how often to take it. Do not exceed the recommended daily serving.