observational
    2013

    Intestinal microbiota metabolism of L-carnitine, a nutrient in red meat, promotes atherosclerosis

    Koeth RA, Wang Z, Levison BS

    Published in Nature Medicine

    Key Findings

    Gut microbial metabolism of L-carnitine generates TMAO, associated with atherosclerosis in mice and cardiovascular events in humans.

    Conclusions

    Raises a theoretical long-term safety question for chronic supplementation.

    Limitations

    Mechanistic and observational; no supplement RCT outcomes.

    Supplements Studied

    L-Carnitine
    Amino Acid

    Microbial metabolism of dietary L-carnitine produces TMAO, which was associated with increased cardiovascular event risk in humans.

    Related Health Concerns

    Atherosclerosis

    Study Details

    Year:2013
    Sample Size:2,595
    Quality Score:6/10

    Access Study

    View on DOIView on PubMedOriginal Source

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