Since you're reading this, I'm going to guess that you could use more energy. Low energy is something all of us with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome face, and while I've struggled with it for a few years, it has become more troublesome as I've become more functional -- when you hurt too bad to move, or you can't stay awake, you don't care as much about energy. What would you do with it anyway?
I realized not long ago that I ran out of energy before my fibro pains or muscle fatigue set in, so I decided low energy was the next symptom to tackle. I knew about carnitine (also called L-carnitine) but I'd never tried it, so I picked up a bottle.
I started taking it almost 3 weeks ago, and I've been utterly amazed at the energy boost it gives me. It started right away -- not a jittery, caffeine-type of energy, but the real thing. That's because carnitine helps your body convert fat into energy (or, more technically, it helps your cells metabolize ATP).
Of course, nothing comes without potential side effects, especially for us! I (foolishly) started taking a whole 500-mg pill per day. When I had some intestinal problems and laid awake with my heart pounding after about the third dose, I cut back to half a pill daily. The side effects went away, and while I didn't have as much energy as with the whole pill, it was still more than I'd had originally. A week later, I went up to the full dosage without side effects.
Each one of us reacts differently, so you might not have the same results I've had, but if you're looking for ways to boost your energy carnitine might be something for you to try. Carnitine is also shown to help brain function, which is something most of us need as well. You can learn more about it here:
Have you tried carnitine? What did it do for you? Did you have any side effects? Share your experience by leaving a comment below!
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Adrienne, thank you for reminding your readers that nothing comes without potential side effects. All too often, a fibromyalgia sufferer will hear about something that might help them and try it. Then when it makes them worse, or changes their symptoms, they can’t understand why. Before doing anything that might help your fibromyalgia symptoms, it is always a good idea to check the benefits verses the risk (long term included) and make an informed decision. A little education can go a long way!
Adrienne, have you tried NADH?
It appears to have potential for similar effect but with fewer potential side effects.
Have been trying Ribose, so far at 5mg a day, and CoQ10, 200mg a day, with moderately good results.
Sigh,
I haven’t tried NADH yet, but I have considered it. It certainly appears to offer a lot of benefits for us. Here’s more info for those not familiar with NADH:
NADH for Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
I’ve been taking L-Carnitine (500mg/daily) for about 2 years. My doctor recommended it & even tried to get my insurance to cover the cost…they wouldn’t. I felt a big difference right away. More energy and stamina. It’s not too expensive and deffinatly worth it!
Nice to hear from u with ur recommendation however i wish people would refrain from giving advice until they have at least severeal months experience with a product.
We (long sufferers using natural treatment) have all taken products that seem to work at first and then after awhile no effect, not to mention the placebo effect. Please do not take this personally this is meant to be a gerneral comment regarding quick draw advice which causes a burr under my saddle. Perhaps we can hear again from u in 5 months to know for sure that the carnatine is working
Ron,
That’s a great idea! I’ll put a carnitine check-up on my list for January.
I have been taking L-Carnitine for years because I eat low-carb and read in one of Dr. Atkins’s books, that he recommended 1500mg a day for weight loss. There were other vitamins he recommended with it, but I had never taken any vitamins. I was stuck at a plateau, and after taking everything he recommended, I lost 7 lbs. in a week without changing anything else in my diet or exercise regiment.I’ve never had any side effects that I recognized. And it is also supposed to be very good for your heart.
Just wanted to give you my appreciation and thanks for your web. I was diagnose and it ha been very lonely and sad. How can I explain my condition when I am so confused? You have given me perspective to continue to undestand everything. Sometimes I just wish I could be in the same room with you and talk with you. You are a very intelligent young lady and I admire the way you are handling everything and helping othes. Thank you ver much.