The effect of L-Carnitine supplementation on clinical symptoms, C-reactive protein and malondialdehyde in obese women with knee osteoarthritis: a double blind randomized controlled trial

Abstract Backgrounds L-carnitine decreases oxidation and inflammation by reducing the fatty acid in plasma using oxygen ATP synthesis. As such, knee osteoarthritis (KOA) can be improved apoptotic chondrocytes. This study was designed to compare effect of supplementation low-calorie diet on improving KOA among obese women. We further investigated L- carnitine improvement women low calorie diet. Methods To conduct study, 76 with were randomly assigned into two groups: first received 1000 mg LCG second took placebo (PLG) ( n = 38). Anthropometry indices, body composition, lipid profile, C-reactive Protein (CRP), Malondialdehyde (MDA), Western Ontario McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) assessed at baseline condition after 12 weeks. Results The mean change mass index (BMI) (− 1.21 ± 0.84 vs. -0.79 0.70; P 0.02) weight 2.76 1.69 -1.95 1.73; 0.05) significant compared PLG. Likewise, PLG showed insignificant waist circumference (WC) 5.65 5.85 -3.64 3.37; 0.08). Total cholesterol 0.02), MDA 0.03), fat (P 0.03) visceral 0.001) only decreased levels comparison condition. There no difference between PLG, changes hip circumference, fat, free mass, profiles, CRP, as well stiffness, physical function, decrease pain total scores > 0.05). Conclusion 12-week could improve BMI, but had other anthropometric composition measures clinical symptoms, MDA, profile KOA. Further trials higher doses longer durations are required. IRCT registration number: IRCT2017011932026N2. Registration date: 2017-04-27.