Effect of L-Carnitine Supplementation on Weight Loss and Body Composition of Taekwondo Players

Abstract

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effect of L-carnitine supplements on weight loss and body composition of taekwondo players.  Sixteen voluntary male athletes, aged 18-28, were participated in this study. Athletes were divided into two groups as experiment (supplement) (n=8) and placebo (n=8). First of all, the body of the athletes was analyzed using the body composition analyzer. After these analyzes were made, for 7 days, the experimental group used carnitine and the placebo group used wheat bran. After 7 days of nutrient supplementation, the analyzes performed at the beginning of the study were repeated. The body fat percentage of the placebo group was found to be significantly lower than the post-training values (p<0.05) and the change in fat mass values was not statistically significant (p>0.05). When the intra-group pre- and post-test body composition values of the L-carnitine group were compared, the post-test averages of skeletal muscle weight, total body water and metabolic rate increased statistically significantly compared to the pre-test averages (p<0.05) and there was a statistically significant decrease in the body fat mass and percentage (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in body weight and BMI (p>0.05). L-carnitine and placebo groups showed no significant difference in body composition according to Independent Sample T test results (p>0.05). It was seen that pre-training L-carnitine consumption helped the athletes to maintain optimal body weight and increased fat oxidation during exercise by activating fat metabolism and positively affected fat mass reduction.

Keywords

• L-Carnitine,taekwondo,weight loss,body composition

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