Lipoic Acid

Description

Lipoic Acid Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare provider. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.

The main benefit of alpha-lipoic acid in the body is that it converts blood sugar (glucose) into energy using oxygen, a process referred to as aerobic metabolism. ALA is also an antioxidant, meaning it neutralizes harmful compounds called free radicals that damage cells at the genetic level.

Many integrative medicine healthcare providers contend that ALA can prevent or manage several health conditions, including:

      Alcoholic liver disease

HIV

Alzheimer’s disease

Bipolar disorder

High blood pressure

Rheumatoid arthritis

Schizophrenia

Erectile dysfunction

Lipoic Acid Other Uses

      Anti-Aging: One study found that a topical cream containing 5%  could help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.16

      Age-Related Memory Loss: A small study found that a combination of omega-3 fatty acids and  helped slow cognitive and functional decline in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s symptoms. Larger studies are needed to confirm these results.

      Reducing Inflammation: C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker of inflammation, which means high levels indicate inflammation somewhere in the body. A meta-analysis concluded that alpha-lipoic supplementation significantly decreased CRP in people with elevated levels.

      Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease: A review of studies found that alpha-lipoic acid could help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides.

      Nerve Function: A small study found that people who had surgery to treat carpal tunnel syndrome had better outcomes after taking alpha-lipoic acid for one month before surgery and two months after.

Lipoic Acid Side Effects 

Alpha lipoic acid has gained a lot of attention in recent years.

It’s an organic compound that acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body.

Your body produces  naturally, but it’s also found in a variety of foods and as a dietary supplement.

Research suggests that it may play a role in weight loss, diabetes, and other health conditions.

However, many people wonder whether it’s effective.

This article reviews alpha-lipoic acid, its benefits, side effects, and recommended dosage.

Dosage

It is in the food you eat will always be your best source of nutrients. If you have a healthy appreciation for vegetables, you may be able to get plenty of ALA from your diet. ALA can be found in

Broccoli

Brussels sprouts

Carrots

Peas

Potatoes

Red meat

Spinach

Tomatoes

Yams

Beets