People don't think about supplements until cancer treatment leaves them feeling exhausted. You may take some time to recover after treatment has ended. Raising the foot to cross the room is more difficult than before. Stairs feel steeper. Even routine household tasks are harder than usual one day. Then you'll hear of L-carnitine from friends, family, or the web. It is claimed to give energy or help people recover more quickly. However, is it really worth taking?
What is L-Carnitine?
L-carnitine is a naturally occurring compound that is produced by your body. It helps to move fat into your cells, where it's turned into energy. And it is also found in food such as red meat, fish, chicken, and dairy products. It provides some energy, and it's been investigated whether it could help those who feel tired during or after cancer treatment.
Can it really help?
The answer isn't the same for everyone. There are people with cancer who have decreased levels of L-carnitine. In such instances, a replacement can minimize tiredness and enhance muscle power. A study published by NIH in 2018 has also found that its hlps with cancer-related fatigue. However, it is not a miracle supplement! These benefits have not been seen in other research. Currently, doctors do not recommend that everyone recovering from cancer use L-carnitine.
Who might need it?
L-carnitine is usually considered only if there's a reason for it. Your doctor may suggest it if you:
Have a confirmed L-carnitine deficiency
Feel unusually tired even after treatment
Have lost a lot of weight or muscle
Are struggling to regain strength
Instead of guessing, your healthcare team will look at your symptoms and overall health before deciding whether it could help.
Is it safe?
For most people, L-carnitine is well tolerated, but that doesn't mean everyone should take it without asking. Some people notice stomach upset, nausea, diarrhoea, or a fish-like body odour. It can also interact with certain medicines, which is another reason to check with your doctor before buying a supplement.
Should you try L-carnitine?
L-carnitine may help some people during cancer recovery, but it isn't something everyone needs. Don't think a supplement is the magic bullet if you are feeling tired long after treatment. Talk with your cancer team first. They can figure out what the reason is and whether L-carnitine is likely to help you recover.