The active form of carnitine is L-carnitine. This is a vitamin-like substance that facilitates the transfer of long-chain fatty acids through the mitochondria, where β-oxidation of fatty acids, which are an important source for energy production takes place. Usually, the amount of L-carnitine produced in body through biosynthesis is sufficient. It makes sense to consider of supplementary L-carnitine as a dietary supplement when animals are not able to cover high energy needs. This usually happens during gestation and lactation, or when the animals are under heat or nutritional stress. Based on the reviewed research, dietary L-carnitine has been shown to have the most beneficial effects in sows, as it has a beneficial effect on piglets, as it increases the viability of piglets and improves pig productivity. Additional L-carnitine is also suitable for broilers, as the addition improves β-oxidation of fatty acids and consequently reduces the fat content of broiler carcasses. It also makes sense to add dietary L-carnitine to laying hens at higher ages, when their own L-carnitine synthesis is reduced. The L-carnitine content in plants is lower compared to animal products, so the addition of L-carnitine is also recommended for ruminants. From attempts to add L-carnitine to dairy cows and small ruminants, we found that additional L-carnitine can prevent or reduce the possibility of fatty liver.
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