L-Carnitine L-Tartrate vs. PLCAR

[Mjolnir]

L-Carnitine L-Tartrate vs. PLCAR

I doubt that there has ever been an exact comparison/test between the two concerning their effects on increasing the number of androgen receptors in skeletal muscle. Ok so im going to be picking up either bulk LCLT or PLCAR for the main purpose of increasing ARs and was wondering if any one of the great minds out there has an inkling as to which may be a better choice, or would I not really notice the difference between the 2 and should I just pick up the one I can get the best price for. All ideas and thoughts on this topic are welcome and appreciated.

Thanks!

[MAxximal]

Carnitines: Dissimilar Members of the Same Family

One of the best known amino acid is actually not an amino acid. L-Carnitine (also known as carnitine) is not an amino acid in the strict definition as it is not a component of proteins and more closely resembles a B-vitamin. Many readers are familiar with the general benefits of carnitine, such as its effect on improving cardiovascular health. The main biological effect of carnitine is to shuttle long chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, which is the energy manufacturing organelle inside our cells. Systemically, the overwhelming amount of carnitine (approximately 95%) is found in our skeletal muscle and heart tissue cells.

Nutritional scientists use the phrase “conditionally essential” to describe carnitine because under certain conditions of physical stress, disease, or trauma, it may be imperative to consume carnitine. We only produce about 20 milligrams of carnitine internally (de-novo synthesis) on a daily basis. The amounts we get from our diet vary tremendously according to dietary practices. The estimates of carnitine consumption are 72 mg/person/day in Japan, 225 mg /person/day in the U.S., and 290 mg/person/day in New Zealand.

While dietary supplement consumers have favorably embraced carnitines, the array of different carnitine forms available in the market has resulted in consumer confusion. Choices include Carnitine Tartrate, Carnitine Fumarate, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, Acetyl-L-Carnitine Arginate, Propionyl- L-Carnitine, to name a few. Which is the best form and what are the differences? To answer these questions requires a slight investigation to uncover the differences in forms and effects of these various carnitines.
One of the main reasons for the different commercial forms of carnitine is because the carnitine molecule is inherently unstable. It has a powerful ability to attract moisture (hygroscopicity), thus resulting in difficulties of formulating in a finished dosage format. This led the two primary pioneers of carnitine manufacturing, Sigma Tau and Lonza, to employ the use of stabilizing salts to eliminate the hygroscopic effect and stabilize carnitine. The addition of the salts tartrate or fumarate results in a stable carnitine for a finished dosage format. These forms of carnitine are called salts of carnitine, as they are not molecular bonds per se, but rather weak ionic interaction. In other words, when you consume a carnitine tartrate or a carnitine fumarate, it results in a release of free of carnitine and the stabilizing salt. Sure, there are differences in the effects of the salt themselves, but in my opinion the differences are minor as the real active compound is the carnitine.

Some forms of carnitine are not stabilized salts but completely different molecules with differences in biological effects. These are not carnitine salts but rather molecular analogs of carnitine. Some examples of these analogs are Acetylcarnitine (also known as Alcar or ALC), Propionylcarnitine (PLC), Carnitine Creatinate, Carnitine Taurinate, and Carnitine Arginate. As a result of the additional compounds bonded to the carnitine molecule, these carnitine analogs offer different biological effects. Unfortunately, for most of these products, there have not been comparative clinical trials conducted to determine if these biological effects are specific to the carnitine analog or to carnitines in general. But, the following can provide some understanding of the carnitine analogs:

“Carnitine Plus” molecules

This is a group of carnitine-based molecules whereby an additional nutrient is bonded to the carnitine. The additional molecule can be Arginine, Creatine, Taurine, Lysine, or other nutrient. These carnitine analogs are likely cleaved into free carnitine plus the accompanying nutrient prior to absorption into the body. Sure, taking a carnitine creatinate is superior to taking ordinary carnitine, but it’s not a fair comparison. A more interesting comparison would be to investigate if there’s any difference after oral administration of a carnitine-plus-nutrient molecule versus a carnitine-and-nutrient mixture - - the latter being a simple mixture of two powders, not a molecular bond, and a lot less costly. So, in general, the “carnitine plus” molecules are still in a phase of proving their worth. Two carnitine analogs, though, are deserving of a special mention because of their difference from ordinary carnitines as well as the amount of clinical data substantiating their use: Propionylcarnitine and Acetylcarnitine.

Propionylcarnitine

Propionylcarnitine (PLC) is available commercially in the form of glycine-propionylcarnitine (esterified carnitine) and this is a superb form of carnitine very specific for muscle tissue and cardiovascular protection. In an experimental rodent study, ordinary carnitine and acetylcarnitine had no protective effect on vascular inflammation, but PLC offered significant protection. Although ordinary carnitine and acetylcarnitine have proven cardiovascular benefit, there are some effects of PLC that are superior for particular cardiovascular conditions.

Acetylcarnitine

This is one of my favorite forms of carnitine because of its versatility in affecting a variety of tissues including the brain, nerve, and muscle tissue. Ordinary carnitine cannot cross the blood brain barrier (BBB), however acetylcarnitine crosses the BBB and has been proven clinically to benefit the brain. Acetylcarnitine is also a better stimulator of the mitochondria for energy synthesis than ordinary carnitine. The surprising twist is that no pharmacokinetic study has been done with acetylcarnitine to determine if it is absorbed intact. However, it has been determined in a study that consuming acetylcarnitine raises acetylcarnitine levels in the blood, and therefore yielding the desired result. If I had to simplify my life and choose one form of carnitine, based on versatility, price, and proven efficacy, I would choose acetylcarnitine.
A few other points should also be considered in order to best utilize carnitine. First, carnitine is not caffeine, so don’t expect a result in one hour. Carnitine’s effects are really felt after about four weeks of supplementation. Second, use carnitine in conjunction with synergestic nutrients such as D-Ribose (an ATP stimulator), CoQ10, and Magnesium. As to the form of carnitine, remember that there are significant differences in the members of the carnitine family. Use the above as a guide to maximize your results from the benefits of carnitines. In the final analysis, the type of carnitine you choose should be based on your specific health condition and budget.

[MAxximal]

The primary function of carnitine in the body, is to regulate fat oxidation (burning). L-Carnitine is responsible for transporting fat to the fat furnace in our cells called mitochondria. Unless fat makes it to the mitochondria, it cannot be oxidized, no matter how much you exercise or diet.

Many studies have been done to determine the effectiveness of L-Carnitine for fat burning. Evidence, more so than not, has suggested that when used correctly, along with a balanced diet (adequate protein, essential fats, and fiber), it works. L-Carnitine however, is not the "silver bullet"; it is just another piece of the fat burning puzzle.

HOW YOUR BODY MAKES L-CARNITINE:

The body can make small amounts of L-Carnitine.
To do so, you need the amino acids: lysine and methionine and vitamins such as niacin, B6, and vitamin C.
A shortage of any of these nutrients, can lower carnitine levels and reduce fat burning .
Lysine has been shown to boost carnitine levels. Lysine is the amino acid precursor that builds the carnitine molecule.**
Strict vegetarians get little or no carnitine.


SOURCES OF L-CARNITINE IN OUR DIETS:

L-Carnitine is found predominately in meat and animal products.
Red meat is the best source.
Chicken and turkey also contain carnitine.
Dairy and milk products contain small amounts.
Most fruits, vegetables, and grains contain almost no carnitine. The exceptions are tempeh and avocados, which contain small amounts.

FACTORS THAT INHIBIT L-CARNITINE PRODUCTION
AND FAT BURNING:
L-Carnitine works best with a diet low in sugars and starches (carbohydrates).
Studies show that for carnitine to work effectively, carbohydrate intake should be kept below 50% of total calories consumed daily.
Elevated insulin levels inhibit optimal carnitine activity (the burning of body fat and energy production).
Omega 3 fats (flaxseed and fish oils) improve carnitine activity and function in the body.**
Adequate protein at each meal is essential for carnitine activity and fat burning.
** Benefit from Flax Seed Oil . Not only does it improve carnitine activity in the body, but studies have shown that it can substantially lower the risk of death from coronary heart disease. Flax seed oil contains twice the amount of Omega-3 oils than that of fish oil products. NSP's Flax Seed Oil is 100% organic and unrefined; due to the cold pressing of the seeds.
Reap the benefits of **Super Oil capsules that combines oil from three different sources.
Hemp oil and Hemp Hearts are Nature's super food, unleash their remarkable powers.

L-CARNITINE AND FAT BURNING:

L-Carnitine assists in the transport of long-chained fatty acids that are burned for energy.
L-Carnitine enhances the consumption of fat as a source of fuel.
L-Carnitine has been shown to increase the amount of fat you burn during both anaerobic (strength training) and aerobic (cardiovascular) workouts.
L-Carnitine plays an important role in mobilizing fatty deposits found in tissues of overweight individuals.
L-Carnitine helps remove fats waste products (ketones) from the blood stream.
Effective carnitine activity helps to discourage fatty build up in the liver, heart, and skeletal muscle.
L-Carnitine has been shown to improve lean muscle strength. Maintaining muscle tissue takes four to five times more calories than maintaining fat tissue, which is important for permanent weight loss.
L-Carnitine helps to stabilize blood sugar and eliminate cravings for carbohydrates.

SUPPLEMENTING L-CARNITINE CORRECTLY:


First, you need to start taking at least 1000 mg per day of L-Carnitine to promote weight loss. Obese individuals may start with 2000 mg per day.
Those with metabolic resistance, start to do well on 3000-5000 mg per day.
Research has shown, that when you start to feel more energy, it is a sign that the level of carnitine, you are using, is starting to burn body fat.
Increase carnitine by 500 mg per day (one capsule) until you begin to feel this increased energy level in you daily lifestyle.
Your energy level will be your guide as to how effective carnitine is working in your body.
The Physician's Desk Reference (PDR) lists no toxic effects from prolonged use of L-Carnitine.
It is best taken before breakfast and lunch.

The best research on Carnitine can be found in the book :
The Carnitine Miracle, by Robert Crayhon, M.S. ISBN: 0-87131-825-3

Turning up your metabolism with the right nutrients is essential for weight loss. There is significant evidence that increased levels of carnitine in tissue leads to increased fat burning. Obesity is not a drug deficiency. Administering certain synthetic medications or nutrients can stimulate thermogenic activity, but supplying your body with the essential nutrients is all that it needs to activate correct fat metabolism, rather than a caloric restriction or brain chemistry manipulation. Nutrients won't do everything. You need a diet that is lower in carbohydrates, contains adequate proteins, essential fats, plenty of fiber, and a routine physical exercise program.

L-carnitine is made in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine. It is needed to release energy from fat. Its actions appear to be particularly important in the heart. For congestive heart failure, much of the research has used a modified form of carnitine called propionyl-L-carnitine (PC). In one double blind trial, using 500 mg PC per day led to a 26% increase in exercise capacity after six months.1

Research shows that individuals who supplement with carnitine while engaging in an exercise regimen are less likely to experience muscle soreness.2 However, the belief that carnitine’s effect on energy release will help build muscle or improve athletic performance has, so far, not been supported by most research.3 4

L-Carnitine work quickly in encouraging the body to burn stored fat for energy rather than carbohydrates. It does this by forcing fat into the muscular cells.

However, carnitine has been given to people with chronic lung disease in trials investigating how the body responds to exercise.5 6 In these double blind reports, 2 grams of carnitine taken twice per day for two to four weeks led to positive changes in breathing response to exercise.

Where is it found? Dairy and red meat contain the greatest amounts of carnitine. Therefore, people who have a limited intake of meat and dairy products tend to have lower carnitine intakes.

Who is likely to be deficient? L-Carnitine deficiencies are rare, even in strict vegetarians, because the body produces carnitine relatively easily.

Rare genetic diseases can cause a carnitine deficiency. Also, deficiencies are occasionally associated with other diseases, such as diabetes and cirrhosis.7 8 A carnitine deficiency can also result from oxygen deprivation which can occur in some heart conditions. In Italy, carnitine is prescribed for heart failure, heart arrhythmias, angina pectoris, and lack of oxygen to the heart.9

Carnitine and Athletes. As a athlete, you know performance centers on your body’s ability to produce explosive energy. And since fat provides the main energy fuel for muscles, tapping into your body’s fat stores is critical. That’s where carnitine come in. Playing a key role in fat oxidation, caritine "shuttles" or transports long-chair fatty acids (the highest energy food ) across the mitochondrial membrane (the power plant of the cell) for enhanced energy production. Without it, fats cannot burned for energy; they are instead stored in the body as fats and triglycerides. Carnitine work quickly in encouraging the body to burn stored fat for energy rather than carbohydrates. It does this by forcing fat into the muscular cells.
90% of carnitine is located in skeletal and cardiac muscle cells. A deficiency can seriously impair the normal functioning of the heart and muscles. This is particularly true among vegetarians, who are more likely to experience carntine deficiency. The reason for this is simple: carnitine is most abundant in meats and milk. Thus, vegetarians could benefit immensely from supplementation.


According to several studies, carnitine supplementation resulted in significant improvements in cardiovascular function after exercise in several double-bline studies among athletes and normal subjects alike. Moreover, carnitine can improve exercise intensity and endurance through fat oxidation and by reducing blood lactic acid levels.

How much is usually taken? Most people do not need carnitine supplements. For therapeutic use, typical amounts are 1–3 grams per day.

It remains unclear whether the propionyl-L-carnitine form of carnitine used in congestive heart failure research has greater benefits than the L-carnitine form, since limited research in both animals and humans with the more common L-carnitine has also shown very promising effects.10

Are there any side effects or interactions? L-carnitine has not been consistently linked with any toxicity.

[phantom]

After doing some reading, I'm wondering if a new Carnitine-Nitrate might show up in the near future? Anyone know mif this might have any benefit over Plcar/GPLC etc?

[Mjolnir]

Thanks for the write-up, very informative, unfortunately it does not help answer my question.

[lonewolf0420]

I would buy neither for the purpose of up-regulating AR's. An increase in TEST will increase regulation.

Cortisol, alcohol, and Soy(some say) are some examples that can lead to a decrease in AR's.

[Mjolnir]

Studies have been done that supposedly show they "increase" the amount of actual ARs within the muslce or increase the density and sensitivity of them not upregulate "dirty" ARs like some people think NAC does. Whether they do a great job at this or not I dont know but I am curious as to which may do it better if any. I am purchasing it more for carnitine's effect on shuffling fat into the mitochondria for fuel but if one of them was better than another pertaining AR increasing/sensitivity or whatever then I would choose that one.

[Mjolnir]

Ok I think I sorta found what I needed, there is some info on this thread:

increasing androgen receptor density palcar or alcar?

[lonewolf0420]

I am purchasing it more for carnitine's effect on shuffling fat into the mitochondria for fuel.

That's were I think carnitine can excel more.

[MAxximal]

L-Carnitine L-Tartrate vs. PLCAR

I doubt that there has ever been an exact comparison/test between the two concerning their effects on increasing the number of androgen receptors in skeletal muscle. Ok so im going to be picking up either bulk LCLT or PLCAR for the main purpose of increasing ARs and was wondering if any one of the great minds out there has an inkling as to which may be a better choice, or would I not really notice the difference between the 2 and should I just pick up the one I can get the best price for. All ideas and thoughts on this topic are welcome and appreciated.

Thanks!

Testofen binds to receptors and L-carnitine L-tartrate increases the amount of androgen receptors


http://www.elitefts.com/documents/perf_recovery_clt.htm

[MAxximal]

Androgenic responses to resistance exercise: effects of feeding and L-carnitine.



http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16826026?ordinalpos=1&itool=En %20trezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed. Pub%20med_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_ Discov%20eryPanel.Pubmed_Disco very_RA&l%20inkpos=4&log$=rela tedarticles&%20logdbfrom=pubme d

[MAxximal]

Optimizing Muscle Strength and Recovery with L-Carnitine L-Tartrate


http://www.elitefts.com/documents/clt.htm

[Mjolnir]

Thanks Max, not a bad article.

[hardknock]

Testofen binds to receptors and L-carnitine L-tartrate increases the amount of androgen receptors


http://www.elitefts.com/documents/perf_recovery_clt.htm

Do you have any links to any peer reviewed journals on testing/findings?

[comacho]

i think the issue is what/which ester form will work best for you to have a huge pool of L-carnitine in there...once Car is in there,,,all those neat studies and benefits will be happening,,,the problem here is the delivery.

injecting l-carnitine is one thing but OTC purpose i guess should try or take all the forms in a shot gun format to get all in there LOL

i mean how much difference will it make though to AR in vivo?? that would be great if it can increase sensitivty or the numbers of AR but so does post workout carbs/whey they increase the nubmers as well.

[Mjolnir]

i think the issue is what/which ester form will work best for you to have a huge pool of L-carnitine in there...once Car is in there,,,all those neat studies and benefits will be happening,,,the problem here is the delivery.

injecting l-carnitine is one thing but OTC purpose i guess should try or take all the forms in a shot gun format to get all in there LOL

i mean how much difference will it make though to AR in vivo?? that would be great if it can increase sensitivty or the numbers of AR but so does post workout carbs/whey they increase the nubmers as well.

Yes exactly but if both have that effect why not do both, plus you can take PLCAR or LCLT pre wo and post wo thus boosting ARs during exercise and after and then increasing them after with your post wo meal. The more the better right?

[dsade]

Yes exactly but if both have that effect why not do both, plus you can take PLCAR or LCLT pre wo and post wo thus boosting ARs during exercise and after and then increasing them after with your post wo meal. The more the better right?

I will tell you what I am using, have been using for the past 8 weeks, and which I am having tremendous success with. My other daily recommendations are up, but for Intraworkout:

in a 32 ounce gatorade bottle -

1 flat tsp LCLT
1 flat tsp PLCAR
750mg Alpha-GPC
1 gram Taurine
3 grams Beta-alanine
2 grams calcium citrate
4 scoops Xtend
250mg Agmatine
1 capsule of Sline-sane (it's a Norvaline/Banaba/Gymnemma supp)

[Mjolnir]

I will tell you what I am using, have been using for the past 8 weeks, and which I am having tremendous success with. My other daily recommendations are up, but for Intraworkout:

in a 32 ounce gatorade bottle -

1 flat tsp LCLT
1 flat tsp PLCAR
750mg Alpha-GPC
1 gram Taurine
3 grams Beta-alanine
2 grams calcium citrate
4 scoops Xtend
250mg Agmatine
1 capsule of Sline-sane (it's a Norvaline/Banaba/Gymnemma supp)

I am assuming that this is with the gatorade not just water mixed in with the ingredients in a gatorade bottle?

Also how do you like the Alpha-GPC I have been meaning to try some but have not yet, notice anything better with focus when taking it? Looks like a real good mix you got there. Thanks for the info.

[MAxximal]

I will tell you what I am using, have been using for the past 8 weeks, and which I am having tremendous success with. My other daily recommendations are up, but for Intraworkout:

in a 32 ounce gatorade bottle -

1 flat tsp LCLT
1 flat tsp PLCAR
750mg Alpha-GPC
1 gram Taurine
3 grams Beta-alanine
2 grams calcium citrate
4 scoops Xtend
250mg Agmatine
1 capsule of Sline-sane (it's a Norvaline/Banaba/Gymnemma supp)

Yeaaahhhh this stack looks INSANE! after my low carb diet i will try it!

[MAxximal]

Do you have any links to any peer reviewed journals on testing/findings?

http://www.springerlink.com/content/k14h34q743l675x7/


William J. Kraemer1 , Jeff S. Volek1, Barry A. Spiering1 and Jakob L. Vingren1

Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, 06269 Storrs, CT, USA

Received: 20 October 2004 Accepted: 24 November 2004 Published online: 10 June 2005

Summary. Early research investigating the effects of L-carnitine supplementation has examined its role in substrate metabolism and in acute exercise performance. These studies have yielded equivocal findings, partially due to difficulties in increasing muscle carnitine concentrations. However, recent studies have proposed that L-carnitine may play a different role in exercise physiology, and preliminary results have been encouraging. Current investigations have theorized that L-carnitine supplementation facilitates exercise recovery. Proposed mechanism is as follows: 1) increased serum carnitine concentration enhances capillary endothelial function; 2) increased blood flow and reduced hypoxia mitigate the cascade of ensuing, destructive chemical events following exercise; 3) thus allowing reduced structural damage of skeletal muscle mediated by more intact receptors in muscle needed for improved protein signaling. This paradigm explains decreased markers of purine catabolism, free radical formation, and muscle tissue disruption after resistance exercise and the increased repair of muscle proteins following long-term L-carnitine supplementation.