Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 16 Researches
6.5
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 13 Reviews
8.1
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Veg Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
L-Carnosine (B-alanyl-L-histidine)
500 mg
*

Top Medical Research Studies

2
Carnosine shows no effectiveness
We investigated the effects of l-carnosine supplementation on musculoskeletal health in adults with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (T2D). In a well-structured clinical trial, 49 participants, all without pre-existing musculoskeletal issues, were divided into two groups. One group received 2 grams of l-carnosine daily for 14 weeks, while the other was given a placebo.

After completing the study, we found that carnosine supplementation did not lead to any significant improvements. There were no notable changes in muscle strength or body composition between those taking l-carnosine and those on the placebo. Specifically, metrics such as hand grip strength, lean mass, fat percentage, and bone health markers showed no benefits from the supplement.

Our findings suggest that l-carnosine might not be a helpful strategy for enhancing musculoskeletal health in individuals with prediabetes and T2D. While our study was comprehensive, further research with larger participant numbers and longer durations would ultimately be needed to confirm these results.
Read More
0
Carnosine ineffective for diabetes outcomes
We conducted a thorough investigation into the effects of l-carnosine treatment on individuals with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Our research involved a 14-week double-blind randomized controlled trial where participants, numbering 49 in total, were assigned to either receive a daily dose of 2 grams of carnosine or a matching placebo.

Throughout the study, we closely monitored various health indicators such as blood pressure, heart rate, endothelial function, arterial stiffness, and liver and kidney function. To our disappointment, we found that carnosine supplementation did not lead to any significant improvements in these cardiovascular and metabolic markers compared to the placebo group.

In conclusion, our findings suggest that l-carnosine is unlikely to be an effective strategy for reducing cardiovascular disease risk in those with prediabetes and T2DM who maintain good glycemic control. Such insights underscore the need for continued research into other potential therapies for these populations.
Read More
9
l-carnosine may shield against diabetes
We investigated the potential impacts of l-carnosine on managing diabetes, particularly its protective effects against diabetes induced by multiple low doses of streptozotocin in adult mice. Through the study, we observed that l-carnosine, alongside leucine-glycine dipeptides, played a significant role in preventing the onset of diabetes in our experimental model.

The research design employed strategies that included appropriate control groups, allowing us to make comparisons and draw meaningful conclusions. As a result, it appears that l-carnosine may effectively mitigate some of the diabetes-linked effects observed in the mice treated with streptozotocin.

Overall, the findings suggest that incorporating l-carnosine might offer a novel approach in diabetes prevention strategies. As we move forward, further studies could help clarify the underlying mechanisms and broader implications for human health in managing diabetes.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

9
Controlled diabetes levels
52 people found this helpful
Amazing. My nutritionist recommended L-Carnosine when I had a slow-healing wound due to diabetes. Combined with exercise, I experienced full recovery, and my HbA1c level dropped to 5.7. While I can't say my diabetes is reversed, my sugar levels are certainly managed, so I continue taking it alongside Vitamin C for immune support.
Read More
6
Promising early results
29 people found this helpful
L-Carnosine. Significant effects will likely emerge long-term. I'm taking this to alleviate the impact of type 2 diabetes, and so far, the results are promising. I am very happy with their part in my process.
Read More
7.5
Nerve damage relief
22 people found this helpful
Now L-Carnosine is great. I use it for nerve damage, eye disorders (cataracts), and kidney issues linked to diabetes. I have neuropathy and eye concerns that I hope to improve with this supplement.
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 16 Researches
6.5
  • All Researches
9
l-carnosine may shield against diabetes
We investigated the potential impacts of l-carnosine on managing diabetes, particularly its protective effects against diabetes induced by multiple low doses of streptozotocin in adult mice. Through the study, we observed that l-carnosine, alongside leucine-glycine dipeptides, played a significant role in preventing the onset of diabetes in our experimental model.

The research design employed strategies that included appropriate control groups, allowing us to make comparisons and draw meaningful conclusions. As a result, it appears that l-carnosine may effectively mitigate some of the diabetes-linked effects observed in the mice treated with streptozotocin.

Overall, the findings suggest that incorporating l-carnosine might offer a novel approach in diabetes prevention strategies. As we move forward, further studies could help clarify the underlying mechanisms and broader implications for human health in managing diabetes.
Read More
We explored the potential of l-carnosine as a protective agent against kidney damage in rats suffering from diabetes. To do this, we created diabetic rat models using a combination of a high-fat diet and a substance called streptozotocin. These rats were then divided into groups and given daily doses of carnosine at varying levels—100, 300, and 900 mg/kg.

We closely monitored the rats' body weights and blood glucose levels throughout the study. After the treatment period, we collected various samples, including kidneys, to assess kidney function and structural changes. Our findings were quite revealing; diabetic rats without carnosine treatment exhibited numerous health issues, such as weight loss, high blood glucose levels, and kidney deformities.

However, the diabetic rats that received carnosine showed noticeable improvements. They had healthier appearances, increased body weight, and lower blood glucose levels. Furthermore, carnosine treatment positively impacted kidney function and structure, reducing oxidative stress markers and enhancing important cellular pathways associated with kidney health.

Overall, we found that l-carnosine appears to protect against diabetic nephropathy in these rat models, mainly by managing oxidative stress and supporting essential cellular functions. This study opens the door for further research on l-carnosine as a potential therapeutic option in diabetes treatment.
Read More
9
Carnosine's role in kidney protection
We investigated the potential of l-carnosine (CAR) to alleviate kidney damage associated with diabetes. The study focused on the phenomenon known as ferroptosis, a type of cell death linked to iron buildup and oxidative stress, which contributes significantly to kidney injury in diabetic nephropathy.

Our findings revealed that CAR, alongside a compound known as Fer-1, effectively reduced kidney damage and inhibited ferroptosis in a mouse model of diabetes induced by streptozotocin (STZ). We also explored the effects of CAR in human kidney tubular epithelial cells (HK2) exposed to high glucose or erastin, both known inducers of ferroptosis. Remarkably, CAR treatment was shown to rescue the cells from this damage.

Importantly, we noted that the protective effects of CAR were lost when a key antioxidant protein, NRF2, was specifically knocked down in HK2 cells. This suggests that CAR's mechanism of action is closely tied to NRF2, highlighting its role in combating ferroptosis and, ultimately, kidney injury in diabetes.
Read More
8
Effects of L-carnosine on diabetes
In our exploration of how L-carnosine treatment affects diabetes, we focused on the interplay between detoxification enzymes, particularly glyoxalase 1 (GLO1) and aldehyde dehydrogenase 3A1 (ALDH3A1). We generated a unique combination of zebrafish that lacked both GLO1 and ALDH3A1 to better understand how their absence influences metabolic processes, especially dicarbonyl stress.

Through our observations, we found that the absence of these enzymes led to an increase in methylglyoxal (MG) and its harmful derivative MG-H1. This accumulation had dire consequences, resulting in impaired proteasome function, which in turn disrupted glucose control and spurred abnormal blood vessel growth in the eye. Encouragingly, we also noted that treatment with L-carnosine could reverse some of these detrimental effects, underscoring its potential role as a therapeutic intervention.

While we recognize that L-carnosine was part of a broader treatment landscape, its protective impact against the harmful accumulation triggered by enzyme loss highlights its significance. Future research could build on these findings to understand L-carnosine's specific contributions and clarify its effectiveness in diabetes management.
Read More
We explored the potential role of l-carnosine in managing cognitive impairment associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This condition, which affects memory and executive function, has become increasingly prevalent and poses a serious challenge to the quality of life for many individuals. While current treatments remain limited, the focus has shifted toward finding effective and accessible alternatives.

Carnosine, a naturally occurring dipeptide with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, emerges as a promising candidate. Research suggests that it may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases and improve glucose regulation in diabetes. We examined its neuroprotective effects in the context of T2DM and noted that its mechanisms might offer therapeutic support in reducing cognitive decline.

Though our findings highlight its potential, further investigation is warranted to establish a comprehensive understanding of its benefits for individuals with diabetes. We aim to provide a foundation for future research and therapeutic approaches that could enhance the lives of those affected by these intertwined health challenges.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 13 Reviews
8.1
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
9
Controlled diabetes levels
52 people found this helpful
Amazing. My nutritionist recommended L-Carnosine when I had a slow-healing wound due to diabetes. Combined with exercise, I experienced full recovery, and my HbA1c level dropped to 5.7. While I can't say my diabetes is reversed, my sugar levels are certainly managed, so I continue taking it alongside Vitamin C for immune support.
Read More
6
Promising early results
29 people found this helpful
L-Carnosine. Significant effects will likely emerge long-term. I'm taking this to alleviate the impact of type 2 diabetes, and so far, the results are promising. I am very happy with their part in my process.
Read More
7.5
Nerve damage relief
22 people found this helpful
Now L-Carnosine is great. I use it for nerve damage, eye disorders (cataracts), and kidney issues linked to diabetes. I have neuropathy and eye concerns that I hope to improve with this supplement.
Read More
9
Effective for diabetes
2 people found this helpful
Health must-have. One of the most effective supplements available. My mother deals with toxic stress and diabetes, and L-Carnosine is literally the answer to her overall health issues, also helping with age-related fatigue. Thanks, Now and iHerb.
Read More
9
Blood sugar control
2 people found this helpful
I bought this for my mother, who has type 2 diabetes. Initially, one capsule didn’t show results, but after suggesting two before lunch and one before dinner, her blood sugar returned to normal. We’re happy with this product.
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

9
Blood sugar control
2 people found this helpful
I bought this for my mother, who has type 2 diabetes. Initially, one capsule didn’t show results, but after suggesting two before lunch and one before dinner, her blood sugar returned to normal. We’re happy with this product.
7.5
Helps with diabetes
1 people found this helpful
L-Carnosine significantly boosts muscle endurance, reduces fatigue and muscle pain after workouts, and may assist in controlling diabetes sugar levels and lowering high blood pressure.
9
Effective for diabetes
2 people found this helpful
Health must-have. One of the most effective supplements available. My mother deals with toxic stress and diabetes, and L-Carnosine is literally the answer to her overall health issues, also helping with age-related fatigue. Thanks, Now and iHerb.
7.5
Diabetes protection
1 people found this helpful
There was a remarkable increase in my muscle performance during training thanks to this substance. I also gave it to my mother for energy. L-Carnosine protects diabetics from complications like cataracts and heart damage.
7.5
Good for diabetes
2 people found this helpful
A good product that slows the ageing process, acts as an excellent antioxidant, benefits athletes, enhances recovery, and helps with diabetes by reducing glycation. I take it in courses.
7.5
Retains cellular health
I take this for my diabetes. It helps maintain cellular health, as advised by my doctor.
7.5
Effective anti-aging
I purchased this for my mother, who finds it helpful. It's an effective anti-aging agent, beneficial for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes types I and II.
7.5
Broad-spectrum antioxidant
Excellent! Carnosine is a powerful antioxidant, protecting proteins and lipids from oxidation. It’s effective for diabetes management and other health issues, and the small capsules are easy to take.
We conducted a randomized controlled trial to see how l-carnosine could influence blood sugar levels in adults diagnosed with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Forty-three participants received either 2 grams of carnosine or a matching placebo daily for 14 weeks while undergoing various assessments, including an oral glucose tolerance test.

The results showed that carnosine supplementation led to a significant decrease in blood glucose levels at both the 90-minute and 120-minute marks after consuming glucose. Specifically, we observed reductions of 1.31 mmol/L and 1.60 mmol/L, respectively, alongside a total glucose area under the curve decrease. These changes were statistically significant, indicating that carnosine may be promising for improving glucose control in those with diabetes.

It’s important to note that while these findings are encouraging, we did not see any changes in insulin levels or other secondary outcomes, like body composition. Nonetheless, our study suggests that further research could establish carnosine as a potential treatment option for managing blood sugar in diabetes patients, possibly through mechanisms affecting how the liver processes glucose.
2
Carnosine shows no effectiveness
We investigated the effects of l-carnosine supplementation on musculoskeletal health in adults with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (T2D). In a well-structured clinical trial, 49 participants, all without pre-existing musculoskeletal issues, were divided into two groups. One group received 2 grams of l-carnosine daily for 14 weeks, while the other was given a placebo.

After completing the study, we found that carnosine supplementation did not lead to any significant improvements. There were no notable changes in muscle strength or body composition between those taking l-carnosine and those on the placebo. Specifically, metrics such as hand grip strength, lean mass, fat percentage, and bone health markers showed no benefits from the supplement.

Our findings suggest that l-carnosine might not be a helpful strategy for enhancing musculoskeletal health in individuals with prediabetes and T2D. While our study was comprehensive, further research with larger participant numbers and longer durations would ultimately be needed to confirm these results.
0
Carnosine shows no benefits for diabetes
We conducted a well-structured study to explore the effects of l-carnosine supplementation on individuals with prediabetes and well-controlled type 2 diabetes. Participants, a total of 49 adults, were randomly assigned to receive either 2 grams of carnosine daily or a matching placebo for a period of 14 weeks.

Our focus was to measure various inflammatory markers and adipokines, such as interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein, before and after the supplementation. Despite our thorough research, we observed that carnosine supplementation did not lead to any significant changes in the inflammatory markers we measured. This suggests that, at least for individuals in our study, l-carnosine may not be effective in reducing inflammation associated with diabetes.

We believe that more extensive studies with longer follow-up periods are necessary to determine the potential benefits of carnosine for individuals with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes. For now, our findings indicate that carnosine supplementation does not seem to play a notable role in managing inflammatory responses in prediabetes or well-controlled type 2 diabetes.
7
Investigating l-carnosine for diabetes
We investigated the role of l-carnosine supplementation alongside vitamin B complex as a treatment for individuals with type 2 diabetes and diabetic neuropathy. This randomized controlled study explored whether this combination could bring about any significant health benefits.

Participants received either the l-carnosine and vitamin B combination or a placebo while being monitored over the study period. However, the findings revealed no substantial advantages attributable to l-carnosine when paired with vitamin B complex. This makes it challenging to determine the direct effects of l-carnosine on diabetes due to the presence of other supplements.

Overall, while the idea of using l-carnosine in managing diabetes was promising, this particular study did not present enough evidence to suggest it is beneficial when used with vitamin B complex. Future research may need to explore the effects of l-carnosine independently to gain clearer insights.
We explored the potential of l-carnosine as a protective agent against kidney damage in rats suffering from diabetes. To do this, we created diabetic rat models using a combination of a high-fat diet and a substance called streptozotocin. These rats were then divided into groups and given daily doses of carnosine at varying levels—100, 300, and 900 mg/kg.

We closely monitored the rats' body weights and blood glucose levels throughout the study. After the treatment period, we collected various samples, including kidneys, to assess kidney function and structural changes. Our findings were quite revealing; diabetic rats without carnosine treatment exhibited numerous health issues, such as weight loss, high blood glucose levels, and kidney deformities.

However, the diabetic rats that received carnosine showed noticeable improvements. They had healthier appearances, increased body weight, and lower blood glucose levels. Furthermore, carnosine treatment positively impacted kidney function and structure, reducing oxidative stress markers and enhancing important cellular pathways associated with kidney health.

Overall, we found that l-carnosine appears to protect against diabetic nephropathy in these rat models, mainly by managing oxidative stress and supporting essential cellular functions. This study opens the door for further research on l-carnosine as a potential therapeutic option in diabetes treatment.
9
Carnosine's role in kidney protection
We investigated the potential of l-carnosine (CAR) to alleviate kidney damage associated with diabetes. The study focused on the phenomenon known as ferroptosis, a type of cell death linked to iron buildup and oxidative stress, which contributes significantly to kidney injury in diabetic nephropathy.

Our findings revealed that CAR, alongside a compound known as Fer-1, effectively reduced kidney damage and inhibited ferroptosis in a mouse model of diabetes induced by streptozotocin (STZ). We also explored the effects of CAR in human kidney tubular epithelial cells (HK2) exposed to high glucose or erastin, both known inducers of ferroptosis. Remarkably, CAR treatment was shown to rescue the cells from this damage.

Importantly, we noted that the protective effects of CAR were lost when a key antioxidant protein, NRF2, was specifically knocked down in HK2 cells. This suggests that CAR's mechanism of action is closely tied to NRF2, highlighting its role in combating ferroptosis and, ultimately, kidney injury in diabetes.
7
Carnosine shows potential in diabetes
We've delved into the effects of l-carnosine supplementation on diabetes, guided by a thorough review of recent studies. This intriguing dipeptide, often found in our skeletal muscles and brain tissue, is known for its potential health benefits beyond athletic performance.

Our findings indicate that l-carnosine may play a supportive role in managing diabetes by improving various parameters associated with the condition. However, it's important to note that clarity surrounding its isolated effectiveness is somewhat lacking, largely due to its use in combination with other treatments.

Moreover, while we observed promising developments regarding the positive impacts of l-carnosine, the evidence remains inconclusive in certain areas. This calls for more focused research to truly understand the extent of its benefits for those living with diabetes.

References

  1. Li S, Li H, Bennewitz K, Poschet G, Buettner M, et al. Combined loss of glyoxalase 1 and aldehyde dehydrogenase 3a1 amplifies dicarbonyl stress, impairs proteasome activity resulting in hyperglycemia and activated retinal angiogenesis. Metabolism. 2025;165:156149. doi:10.1016/j.metabol.2025.156149
  2. Saadati S, Jansons P, Scott D, de Courten M, Mousa A, et al. The Effect of Carnosine Supplementation on Musculoskeletal Health in Adults with Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2024;16. doi:10.3390/nu16244328
  3. Liu L, Zhang S, Xu J, Cao Y, Cui D, et al. Mass-spectrometry-based quantitative proteomic analysis reveals that methylglyoxal and carnosine influence oxidative stress and RNA-processing associated proteins in renal proximal tubule epithelial cells. Mol Biol Rep. 2025;52:100. doi:10.1007/s11033-024-10190-8
  4. Saadati S, de Courten M, Deceneux C, Plebanski M, Scott D, et al. Carnosine Supplementation Has No Effect on Inflammatory Markers in Adults with Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomised Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2024;16. doi:10.3390/nu16223900
  5. Hamouda MH, Salem HF, Afifi HELDM, Ibrahim NA, Rabea H. Effect of Carnosine Supplementation as Add-On Therapy With Vitamin B Complex in People With Type 2 Diabetes and Diabetic Neuropathy: A Randomized Controlled Study. Clin Diabetes. 2024;42:561. doi:10.2337/cd24-0012
  6. Wang Q, Tripodi N, Valiukas Z, Bell SM, Majid A, et al. The protective role of carnosine against type 2 diabetes-induced cognitive impairment. Food Sci Nutr. 2024;12:3819. doi:10.1002/fsn3.4077
  7. Corrigendum to "Leucine-glycine and carnosine dipeptides prevent diabetes induced by multiple low-doses of streptozotocin in an experimental model of adult mice". J Diabetes Investig. 2024;15:791. doi:10.1111/jdi.14210
  8. Berdaweel IA, Monroe TB, Alowaisi AA, Mahoney JC, Liang IC, et al. Iron scavenging and suppression of collagen cross-linking underlie antifibrotic effects of carnosine in the heart with obesity. Front Pharmacol. 2023;14:1275388. doi:10.3389/fphar.2023.1275388
  9. Hariharan R, Cameron J, Menon K, Mesinovic J, Jansons P, et al. Carnosine supplementation improves glucose control in adults with pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes: A randomised controlled trial. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2024;34:485. doi:10.1016/j.numecd.2023.10.012
  10. Ren Y, Lu J, Yu L, Li Z, Wang G, et al. [Carnosine protects against diabetic nephropathy in rats by activating the AKT/mTOR pathway and restoring autophagy in the renal tissue]. Nan Fang Yi Ke Da Xue Xue Bao. 2023;43:1965. doi:10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2023.11.18
  11. Saadati S, Cameron J, Menon K, Hodge A, Lu ZX, et al. Carnosine Did Not Affect Vascular and Metabolic Outcomes in Patients with Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes: A 14-Week Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2023;15. doi:10.3390/nu15224835
  12. Keykhaee M, Rahimifard M, Najafi A, Baeeri M, Abdollahi M, et al. Alginate/gum arabic-based biomimetic hydrogel enriched with immobilized nerve growth factor and carnosine improves diabetic wound regeneration. Carbohydr Polym. 2023;321:121179. doi:10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121179
  13. Zhang S, Li Y, Liu X, Guo S, Jiang L, et al. Carnosine alleviates kidney tubular epithelial injury by targeting NRF2 mediated ferroptosis in diabetic nephropathy. Amino Acids. 2023;55:1141. doi:10.1007/s00726-023-03301-5
  14. Pfeffer T, Wetzel C, Kirschner P, Bartosova M, Poth T, et al. Knock-Out Reduces Kidney Fibrosis in Type-1 Diabetic Mice on High Fat Diet. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023;12. doi:10.3390/antiox12061270
  15. Ndolo RO, Yu L, Zhao Y, Lu J, Wang G, et al. Carnosine-Based Reversal of Diabetes-Associated Cognitive Decline via Activation of the Akt/mTOR Pathway and Modulation of Autophagy in a Rat Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord. 2023;52:156. doi:10.1159/000530605
  16. Cesak O, Vostalova J, Vidlar A, Bastlova P, Student V. Carnosine and Beta-Alanine Supplementation in Human Medicine: Narrative Review and Critical Assessment. Nutrients. 2023;15. doi:10.3390/nu15071770
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