A 35-year-old vegetarian athlete complains of prolonged muscle soreness. Analysis shows low dietary carnitine but adequate protein and no metabolic disease. Which analysis-based plan addresses the probable cause and least invasive correction?

• A. Prescribe immediate high-dose intravenous lipoic acid because lipoic acid directly replaces carnitine's role in mitochondrial fatty acid transport.
• B. Advise targeted dietary adjustments to include dairy if acceptable or consider a carnitine supplement trial while monitoring symptoms and performance, since low dietary carnitine can contribute to fatigue in high-demand states.
• C. Recommend complete cessation of exercise indefinitely because muscle soreness in vegetarians always indicates irreversible metabolic damage unrelated to carnitine status.
• D. Tell the athlete to increase carbohydrate loading only, because shifting fuel away from fat entirely will permanently eliminate any carnitine requirement even under heavy training.

Answer: (B)