L-Carnitine treatment reduces severity of physical and mental fatigue and increases cognitive functions in centenarians: a randomized and controlled clinical trial
Key Finding
Acetyl-L-carnitine (2g daily) reduced mental fatigue and improved cognitive function in centenarians over 6 months.
Plain-English Summary
This randomized controlled trial examined acetyl-L-carnitine supplementation in 66 centenarians (people aged 100 or older). Participants received 2 grams of L-carnitine daily or placebo for 6 months.
The L-carnitine group showed significant improvements in both physical and mental fatigue compared to placebo. Cognitive function tests revealed improvements in attention, mental processing speed, and memory. Total fat mass decreased while muscle mass increased in the treatment group.
Acetyl-L-carnitine plays a crucial role in mitochondrial energy production and is particularly important for brain metabolism. The acetyl group can be used to produce acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter for memory and learning. By improving cellular energy production and supporting neurotransmitter synthesis, acetyl-L-carnitine helps maintain cognitive function during aging. The supplement was well-tolerated even in this very elderly population.