Can L-Carnitine Be Taken As A Replacement Supplement While Having Diabetes?

Posted on Wed, 19 Oct 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 19 Oct 2016 Answered on

Mon, 7 Nov 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : should i take l-caratine for supplement. iam pre diabetic with high blood pressure.iam eating mostly vegies that is helping me with the sugar level.

Answered by Dr. Mirjeta Guni (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes you can take l carnitine.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
L carnitine is an aminoacid that is used as a replacement supplement in strict vegetarians, who do not take proteins with diet. So you can take it.
Some research suggests that L-carnitine might improve blood sugar control, but most research shows that L-carnitine does not improve blood sugar in people with diabetes. However, L-carnitine might improve glycemic control when taken along with diabetes medications.
As you are diagnosed with prediabetes, i would recommend diet and physical activity for three months to improve the glucose levels.
Hope the information will help.
Kind regards,
Dr.Mirjeta

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad