Fortin, D. A., Willis, C. M., Headley, S. A., Winter, C., & Berger, J. J. (2000). L-carnitine supplement does not affect L/P ratios and sprint performance in elite male cyclists. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 32(5), Supplement abstract 460.

The effects of dietary L-carnitine supplementation on sprint performance and lactate/pyruvate ratios (L/P) following a bout of moderate intensity aerobic exercise, were investigated in elite male cyclists (N =16). Ss ingested either 2 gm/d of L-carnitine or placebo for 28 days. The performance was a 60-min ride at 80% lactate threshold immediately followed by a Wingate anaerobic test.

There was no effect of the supplement on L/P ratio or sprint performance following an extended aerobic ride.

Implication. L-carnitine is not ergogenic.

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