Acetyl L-Carnitine, also called carnitine is an essential part of our body. It is actually an amino acid derivative which can be made by the body and is used for a variety of things within the body. Mostly it is used in energy metabolism and for the proper use of fats. It can take the fatty acids and move them over to the mitochondria which are considered to be the powerhouse of the cells in your body. Many people lack in acetyl l-carnitine, but most notably women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding. It is because there is such high energy consumption that the need for L-carnitine can exceed what the body actually produces. When this happens carnitine deficiency can lead to other problems which are why acetyl l-carnitine is often used as a supplement. L-carnitine also has some other great benefits that it can provide people in other ways as well. As we know L-carnitine gives your body a great energy boost which can help to elevate certain enzymes which metabolize sugars and other carbs. This is especially beneficial for athletes because it can enable them to have the gain in the muscles without the unnecessary pain. In addition to this it helps to clear the bloodstream of ammonia and helps to create glycogen which stores essential glucose in your body. In people with a connection to angina, ADHD, congestive heart failure, and intermittent claudication it has been shown to help treat not only the symptoms but aid in prevention as well. The heart in general is especially affected by L-carnitine deficiency so by taking a supplement it can help with cardiomyopathy which can cause the heart a lot of damage. In fact, it can be used for anyone with heart problems to prevent a heart attack which can lead to death. When you take it you can see results in your heart problems in as little as four weeks so that you will not experience as many chest pains, or heart rhythm disturbances. When you have congestive heart failure your body may fail to make carnitine so it can be extremely important to supplement your dietary needs with it everyday.