L-carnitine

Miracle or Medicine


L-Carnitine is not a medicine. Sorry to say it, nor a miracle. It can not be used to effectively "burn fat", but it can make life easier in dog diabetes.


What is l-Carnitine


Some is calling it a vitamin like nutritient. It can be build from two amino acids called lysine and methionine - Vitamin C is very important in this process and this building happens in the Liver and Kidney


Why then give it if the body can produce it ? - in some circumstances the production can't keep up whith the need. Then it becomes important to get in the food, or as a supplement.


Its role in the body


The body has a constant need of energy. Every cell has a place where "the energy production happens" called mitochondria. Mitochondria are very small but extremely important for the cell. Here, the fundamental production of energy from the food is produced. You can call it the power plant of the cell


Carnitine makes it a lot easier for the body to transport the fatty acids to the mitochondria where they are metabolised. Mitochondrias are placed inside the cells and has a thin membrane around them. This supplement facilitates fatty acids transportation through the membrane into the "fire" inside the mitochondria.


How does Carnitine protect the body


In dog diabetes the cells has not the usual glucose to burn. The glucose can't enter the cell because the lack of Insulin. The cells try to make energy from fat but is easily turned into "end products" which is hurting the body.


L-carnitine make the body burn fat in a way where the body is not being hurt but actually makes energy the body can use. At least to some extent. Carnitine does protect the liver and spare the muscles as well.


In diabetic dogs the liver is often very hard working. To give some "ease" is important.


As an antioxidant


It can actually help to protect cells by being an antioxidant. Some dog breeds can have heart problems caused by lack of Carnitin. But that's another story.


Natual sources


Especially fresh meat from lam or sheep is good sources of this supplement


Diabetic Dog Food Relevant Pages

Dog diabetes symptoms
Dog diabetes




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