Final answer:
Carnitine deficiency leads to hypoketotic hyperglycemia due to impaired fatty acid transport and β-oxidation, which can result in muscle cramps and weakness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement carnitine deficiency causes hypoketotic hyperglycemia and muscle cramps/weakness is True. Carnitine is essential for the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria for β-oxidation and energy production. In states of a carnitine deficiency, this process is impaired, leading to insufficient ketone body production (hypoketosis) and the accumulation of fat in the liver, which can result in hypoglycemia. Further, because muscles rely on fatty acids for energy during periods of fasting or intense exercise, a lack of carnitine can lead to symptoms such as muscle cramps or muscle weakness.