Study: L-Carnitine May Reduce Incidence of Gestational Diabetes

New research conducted on L-carnitine suggests that the amino acid may increase plasma free fatty acid levels during pregnancy, which scientists say could be 'a major factor in developing gestational diabetes.'

Using Lonza...s (Basel, Switzerland) Carnipure brand L-carnitine, researchers at the Medical University of Vienna (Austria) found that supplementing with 2 g of L-carnitine resulted in the increase of plasma free fatty acids.

Lonza states that, as early as the twelfth week of pregnancy, plasma total and free L-carnitine levels may drop significantly.

'Carnipure tartrate has clear benefits for pregnant women,' said Alfred Lohninger, lead author of the study. 'It not only maintains normal L-Carnitine levels, but also decreases plasma free fatty acids, thus potentially decreasing the risk for developing insulin resistance.'

This research was published in the May 2010 issue of the Journal for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Gynäkologisch-geburtshilfliche Rundschau).