Carnitine

WHAT IS L-CARNITINE?
L-Carnitine is an amino acid manufatured by the human body from the amino acids precursors methionine and lysine. Supplemental amounts can be found in muscle and organ meats, however, there is none in plant proteins. Men require higher amounts of Carnitine than women, with large amounts being found in the epididymus of the testis. 

HOW DOES IT WORK?
There is strong evidence to suggest carnitine might be a very useful fat burner, however it's effects are worth noting, but nothing dramatic. Carnitine has never been used to treat those with extreme weight problems or the obese as it's effects, compared to many fat loss supllements are quite mild. In the human body carnitine transfers fatty acids across cell membranes to the mitochondria (energy furnace) of the cell, where they can be burnt for energy. Although research has shown that this part of supplemental carnitine use of correct, it's use does not actually liberate fatty acids in the first place. Something stronger such as Ephedrine would be a better choice for this purpose.

MANUFACTURING CARNITINE AND DEFICIENCY
In order for your body to actually manufacture it's carnitine from the precursor amino acids you must ensure that you maintain high levels of vitamin C and optimally niacin and vitamin B6. Carnitine deficincies are quite rare, those who are, generally, are actually Vitamin C deficient. 

Current thinking tends to suggest supplemental carnitine is only required for those whom may be vegetarian or otherwise carnitine deficient. For those that follow a reasonable supplemental regime probably wouldn't require a further dose.

HOW MUCH AND WHEN?
When supplementing Carnitine, especially for fat burnining purposes, 1 to 3 grams should be used in divided doses throughout the day.