Today’s blog discusses the effects of two critical components in meat and some supplements: L-Carnitine and TMAOs. These popular supplements have shown promise in the metabolic health arena and require more attention. Below, I will explain the benefits and risks of both L-Carnitine, and TMAO supplements.
L-Carnitine
L-carnitine, also known as “jet fuel” among bodybuilders, is commonly found in meats and animal products. Many believe it helps burn fat and is why many also consider it a performance-enhancing supplement. Additionally, new research suggests that L-carnitine may also benefit those with LP(a) issues which is known to be a significant risk factor for heart disease.
Start here. L-carnitine was first discovered in 1905 and thought to be a B-vitamin. However, L-carnitine was later discovered to be produced by the body, which prompted researchers to re-classify it as a non-vitamin.
Understand this. There are two forms of carnitine: D and L; The D form is toxic and should be avoided, while the L form (L-carnitine) is considered safe.
While L-carnitine is often touted as an excellent fat-burning supplement, there is also evidence linking it to an increase in risk of cardiovascular disease. Regrettably, that usually relates to large amount of L-carnitine being consumed at once.
While L-carnitine’s potential benefits for those with LP(a) issues are still being researched, it’s also important to consider the potential risks. Therefore, please have a conversation with your healthcare provider before adding this supplement to your regimen.
TMAOs
To begin, please understand some facts about TMAOs. First, L-carnitine is broken down and fermented into TMAO (trimethylamine oxide) by bacteria in the gut.
Second, TMAO is linked to kidney damage, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
Third, TMAO is essential, but it underlines the problems with understanding the relative importance of risk factors for heart attack, stroke, and cancer in the United States.
Forth, as mentioned previously, TMAO comes from the gut, and what bacteria in the gut do to components of our diet. It is also derived from carnitine, red meat, and choline, which is found in eggs, milk, liver, and fish.
Now, as far as risk, TMAO is far less of a risk for high blood glucose levels, and it helps us understand what diets are safest and best depending on our individual metabolisms. Therefore, if we have problems with metabolizing carbs, blood sugar is far more of a risk for us than red meat fats.
Choline and TMAO
So, how does TMAO becomes elevated? First, TMAO is formed by the bacteria in your gut when they act on carnitine or choline from compounds in certain foods. Specifically, the most significant sources of carnitine are red meats, like beef, and lamb, while choline is found in egg yolks.
When the bacteria break down the previously mentioned compounds in your gut, they are turned into TMA (trimethylamine) and then transported to your liver, which is then oxidized to form TMAO. Shortly after, oxidized TMAO increases the body’s plaque deposition in the arteries, leading to an increase in risk of heart attack and stroke. This is why it is important to be aware of the sources of carnitine and choline in your diet and to limit your intake of these compounds.
Other sources of carnitine include energy drinks, weight loss, and muscle-building supplements.
So, what can you do to decrease your TMAO levels? One of the best ways to decrease TMAO levels is by eating a plant-based diet. To explain, plant-based diets are naturally low in carnitine and choline and have been shown to decrease TMAO levels in the body.
However, there is also the political side of TMAO; there is an interesting article posted by the Skeptical Cardiologist which suggests TMAO CV Risk is nothing but a red flag produced by big corporations to change the way you eat; we discussed it in the latest YT Live.
If you found this article helpful and want to start taking steps toward reversing your chronic disease, Dr. Brewer and the PrevMed staff are ready to serve you no matter where you’re located.
To find out more, schedule a consult here: prevmedhealth.com
REFERENCES:
1. https://prevmedhealth.com/plant-based-vs-sugar-free-whos-right-how-to-use-food-labels-right/
2. https://prevmedhealth.com/muscle-loss-sarcopenia-dangerous-common/
3. https://prevmedhealth.com/the-3-biggest-diet-mistakes-theyre-not-food-choices-part-1/
4. https://prevmedhealth.com/is-saturated-fat-unhealthy-is-it-a-big-fat-surprise-big-fat-lies-or-just-confusion/