Are L-carnosine supplements helpful and safe?

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Beta-Alanine for Exercise Performance?

Written by Meredith Worthington, Ph.D. — Medically reviewed and edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D.

Updated July 25, 2024 ⓘ

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Answer:

L-carnosine, also called beta-alanyl-L-histidine, is a naturally occurring protein found in the brain and muscles. It can be obtained from meat sources (such as chicken or beef) or as a synthetic form in supplements (Roy Chengappa, Schizophr Res 2012).

Don't confuse L-carnosine with L-carnitine, which has been evaluated for different conditions (and is discussed within our Acetyl-L-Carnitine Supplements Review).

L-carnosine supplementation has been investigated for various conditions, including depression, autism spectrum disorders, diabetes and related complications, heart failure, and Alzheimer's disease. L-carnosine showed modest benefit for some, but not all, of these conditions, although all of the studies to date have been small and short-term.

Sign in for details about the clinical evidence for L-carnosine, as well as possible safety concerns, potential drug interactions, cost, and if research supports use of beta-alanine (a constituent of L-carnosine) instead of L-carnosine for athletic performance, depression, or cognitive function.

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