L-Carnitine for Sperm Quality: The Evidence

L-carnitine (and its acetylated form, acetyl-L-carnitine) is concentrated in the epididymis and is crucial for sperm maturation and motility.

The Role of Carnitine

Sperm get their energy from fatty acid oxidation in the mitochondria. L-carnitine shuttles fatty acids into the mitochondria. Without adequate carnitine, sperm can't produce enough ATP—and motility suffers.

Studies in subfertile men show improvements in sperm concentration, motility, and morphology with 1–3g daily of L-carnitine or acetyl-L-carnitine for 2–6 months.

Dosing for Fertility

1–2g per day is typical in fertility protocols. Our Recovery Stack uses 1000mg per serving. For guys with significant suppression, some protocols use up to 3g.

Pairing with CoQ10

CoQ10 and L-carnitine work on different parts of the mitochondrial energy pathway. Together, they provide broader support for sperm function than either alone.