Carnitine is an antioxidant and enhances the effectiveness of antioxidant vitamins C and E. Carnitine is synergistic with pantethine (vitamin B5). Carnitine is manufactured by the body if sufficient amounts of iron, vitamin B1, vitamin C, niacin, vitamin B6, lysine, and methionine are available. Today the average carnitine intake is estimated at a mere 30 to 50 mg a day (very low). Strict vegetarians consume practically no carnitine.