Impact of L-carnitine supplementation on lipid profile parameters in overweight and obese women: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: L-carnitine plays a central role in fatty acid metabolism and has been proposed as a potential strategy for improving lipid regulation. However, evidence from clinical trials remains inconsistent, and female-specific data are scarce. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of L-carnitine supplementation on lipid profiles specifically in women with overweight or obesity.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies enrolled women with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² and compared L-carnitine supplementation with placebo or no intervention. Pooled weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Ten RCTs were included. L-carnitine supplementation significantly reduced TG (WMD: - 8.01 mg/dL; 95%CI: - 15.21 to - 0.81), TC (WMD: - 7.85 mg/dL; 95%CI: - 14.54 to - 1.16), and LDL-C (WMD: - 5.59 mg/dL;95%CI: - 10.02 to - 1.16). No significant overall effect was found for HDL-C (WMD:1.09 mg/dL;95%CI: - 1.79 to 3.99). Subgroup analyses indicated stronger effects at higher doses, shorter intervention durations, and in participants with elevated baseline lipid levels.

CONCLUSION

L-carnitine supplementation provides significant improvements in TG, TC, and LDL-C among overweight and obese women, although HDL-C responses remain inconsistent. These findings suggest a potential adjunctive role for L-carnitine in cardiometabolic risk management.