L-Carnitine in the Treatment of Autism

This week a common supplement, L-Carnitine, is in the news. This articlecame out last Friday discussing the use of L-Carnitine in treating autism. "In some mice, the TMLHE gene is mutated. Because of this, the body produces insufficient amounts of carnitine. Carnitine is important because it helps transport fatty acids into the correct compartment in a cell so they can be broken down. Lack of carnitine appears to result in a fetus’ neural stem cells not getting fatty acid to the correct places, increasing autism risk.”

L-Carnitine is an important nutrient and is necessary for fatty acid metabolism and energy production in heart and muscle function. It is also often used in conjunction with mitochondrial support. Since the burning of fat is a major source of muscular energy, deficiencies in L-Carnitine are manifested as low energy levels and muscular weakness. L-Carnitine deficiencies can also appear as mental confusion or cloudiness, angina (heart pain) and weight gain.

What is the difference between L-Carnitine and Acetyl-L-Carnitine?The acetyl group that is part of Acetyl-L-Carnitine contributes to the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is required for mental functioning. Recent animal studies show that only the acetyl form of L-Carnitine acts to reduce oxidative damage in the brain.

As we mentioned before, it is a common supplement used in what is commonly referred to as a "mito cocktail”. A mito cocktail is a combination of supplements geared towards supporting mitochondrial function. We carry a very popular and well-studied product called MitoSpectra. MitoSpectra provides a variety of supplements such as L-Carnitine, Coenzyme Q10, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Vitamin B5 all formulated to provide support to the mitochondria.

Whether you or your child need specific supplementation with L-Carnitine, Acetyl-L-Carnitine or a comprehensive mitochondrial support supplement, we have options for you.