HealthJuly 16, 2026
carnitine
/ˈkɑːrnɪˌtiːn/
Definition
A naturally occurring amino acid derivative that plays a critical role in cellular energy production by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria to be burned for fuel.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'carnis', meaning 'flesh', because the compound was first isolated from meat in the early 20th century.
In the news
In this article, the author identifies a carnitine deficiency as a potential contraindicator for the ketogenic diet, as this compound is essential for the body to successfully process fats and achieve the state of ketosis.
Can a 100-Year-Old Diet Help Treat Severe Mental Illness? What the Evidence Shows
Read the full article ↗Medscape