Plasma l-carnitine levels in non-obese and obese pregnant women

Aim: L-carnitine is a valuable component of body which plays an important role in fatty acid and glucose oxidation, reduces insulin resistance. In literature there are many studies showing that L-carnitine plasma levels were lower in pregnant women. However, there are no studies that determine and compare the plasma concentrations of L-carnitine among obese and non obese pregnant women. This study aims to determine plasma L-carnitine levels and to specify its relationship with obesity in both obese women and non-obese pregnant woman.Materials and Methods: The study was performed on a cohort of 64 obese and 54 non-obese women who were admitted for routine pregnancy control. Complete blood count was made, lipid profile was assessed and levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and L-carnitine were measured by using serum samples.Results: When compared with literature, plasma concentrations of L-carnitine were low in both obese and non-obese pregnant women who were recruited for the present study. Plasma L-carnitine levels of obese pregnant women were found to be significantly lower thant hose of non-obese pregnant women. Moreover, there was a significant and negative correlation between L-carnitine and triglyceride levels and a significant and positive correlation existed between L-carnitine and HDL levels.Conclusion: Plasma concentrations of L-carnitine were significantly lower in obese pregnant women than non-obese pregnant women. Therefore, the question arises whether low L-carnitine level is a reason or result of obesity. More research is warranted for clarification of maternal and fetal effects of L-carnitine and the impact of L-carnitine supplementation over the management of obesity in pregnant women.