L-Carnitine Supplementation and Moderate-Intensity Exercise Enhanced Bone Metabolism Markers and Muscular Performance in Individuals with Overweight and Obesity

Background.Optimisation of bone health from exercise interventions and nutritional supplements was recommended.Objectives.This study aimed to determine whether L-carnitine supplementation combined with interval exercise training influenced bone metabolism markers and muscular strength and power in individuals with overweight and obesity.Methods.This randomized controlled trial study involved sixty-eight participants in four groups, i.e., control (C, n=17), L-carnitine supplementation alone (Lc, n=17), exercise alone (Ex, n=17), and combined L-carnitine supplement and exercise (LcEx, n=17) groups.The participants in the Ex and LcEx groups participated in a 60-minute exercise program per day, 3 times a week, for 12 weeks at 50% heart rate reserved for brisk walking and 40-60% for interval exercise training.The participants in the Lc and LcEx groups consumed 1000 mg of L-carnitine supplement daily.The blood measurements for serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total calcium, and serum Cterminal telopeptide of type 1 procollagen (1CTP) were measured at weeks 0 and 12. Results.The result showed that the LcEx group showed the most remarkable increment in ALP (p<0.05) and total calcium (p<0.05);however, it showed a reduction in serum 1CTP (p = 0.003).Regarding muscular performance, the LcEx group (p<0.05) also demonstrated a more significant increase in overall measured parameters of dominant knee extension and flexion peak torque and average power at 60o.s -1 and 300o.s - compared to other groups after 12 weeks.Conclusion.Combining L-carnitine supplementation with brisk walking and interval training can enhance bone formation and muscle performance in people who are overweight and have obesity.