Metabolic
    Moderate Evidence

    Fatty Acid Oxidation

    Enhanced fat burning for energy during exercise and rest.

    TL;DR

    Fat oxidation rate is set primarily by training status, exercise intensity and carbohydrate availability. Carnitine only helps if you are actually deficient, and supplements do not create a calorie deficit.

    Why It Matters

    Impaired fat oxidation, or metabolic inflexibility, accompanies insulin resistance and predicts progression to type 2 diabetes. Improved fat oxidation at rest and low intensity is a marker of metabolic health.

    How to Measure

    Biomarkers

    Respiratory exchange ratio
    Fasting insulin and HOMA-IR
    Fat max testing
    Triglyceride to HDL ratio

    Optimization Protocol

    Build aerobic base with zone 2 training three to five hours weekly, add resistance training, and train occasionally in a fasted state at low intensity. Carnitine 2 g daily only makes sense with low carnitine status, such as vegan diets or dialysis. Sustained fat loss still requires a calorie deficit.

    Supporting Supplements

    Supporting Research

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Typical Timeframe

    8-12 weeks of training

    Research Summary

    Studies6
    Supplements2
    Evidence
    Moderate Evidence

    My Notes

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    This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.