Alpha-lipoic acid, also known as ALA (not to be confused with Alpha-Linolenic Acid) is a fatty vitamin like acid that is found in all cells. It serves several vital functions in oxidative metabolis. Lipoic acid is a potent antioxidant approved in Europe to reduce neurological complications of diabetes; lipoic acid also benefits vision and skin. Yeast, liver, kidney, spinach, broccoli, and potatoes are good sources of alpha-lipoic acid. It is also made in the laboratory for use as medicine.
Alpha-lipoic acid works as a natural antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals in the body and protects cells from damage. ALA has been used for years in Europe to help maintain and perhaps even restore liver health. Alpha Lipoic Acid is so effective that it has been used to treat patients with radiation poisoning, mushroom poisoning, alcoholic hepatitis, diabetes-related neuropathy. It has also been shown to effectively lower liver enzymes.
ALA protects the body from free radicals that may enter the system through cigarette smoke, pollution, car exhaust, fried foods and in other ways. If you live in an environment that has no smoke, no pollution, and no car exhaust, and if you never eat fried foods, then you are probably in pretty good shape and don't have to worry about free radicals. The rest of us could benefit from taking supplements that contain antioxidants like Alpha Lipoic Acid. If you don't want to take a supplement, you may still get some Alpha Lipoic Acid through your diet, provided you eat enough of the right kinds of foods. Alpha Lipoic Acid is a naturally occurring substance and can be found in foods such as meats, and vegetables (i.e. spinach).
Alpha lipoic acid is both a water-soluble and fat-soluble anti-oxidant. This means that it can work at the fatty cell membrane level, as well as the watery cell interiors. Its can easily pass through cell membranes and access the mitochondria (the power-plants located in the interior of the cells.)
Alpha lipoic acid can boosts levels of glutathione, and appears to be the only antioxidant that can significantly do so. Glutathione is another major antioxidant and detoxifier.
Unfortunately both alpha lipoic acid and glutathione levels decreases as we age. And at the same time we have higher levels of free radicals. So alpha lipoic supplementation becomes more important the older we get.
Alpha lipoic acid recycles glutathione so that you have more of it around. If Alpha Lipoic Acid is present along with glutathione, and vitamin C, then together they can also help recycle vitamin E. These network of antioxidants work synergistically to protect us from oxidative stress.
Alpha Lipoic Acid is a cofactor for many of the enzymes that convert food into ATP energy.
Some of the many things that alpha lipoic acid do is to assist in energy production, protect DNA, reduce cellular inflammation, inhibits glycosylation, and protect the mitochondria.
Alpha-lipoic acid is used for diabetes and nerve-related symptoms of diabetes including burning, pain, and numbness in the legs and arms. High doses of alpha-lipoic acid are approved in Germany for the treatment of these symptoms.
Some people use alpha-lipoic acid for memory loss, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), HIV/AIDS, cancer, liver disease, diseases of the heart and blood vessels (including a disorder called cardiac autonomic neuropathy) and Lyme disease.
Alpha-lipoic acid is also used to treat eye-related disorders, such as damage to the retina, cataracts, glaucoma, and an eye disease called Wilson's disease.
Alpha lipoic acid is also hepato-protective (where hepato means liver). It protects the liver and is sometimes used to treat liver diseases. Hepato-protective may be an understatement. Recall Dr. Berkson's story.
Alpha lipoic acid (in conjunction with regular treatment) is also used to treat some eye diseases. HIV, AIDS, autoimmune disease, skin disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiac disease and other conditions.
ALA has been used to improve liver health, treat diabetes-related nerve damage and help regulate blood sugar, prevent diabetic retinopathy (damage to the eyes done by diabetes), and provide protection against oxidative processes involved in the degenerative diseases. In addition to being a powerful antioxidant and liver purifier, Alpha Lipoic Acid has shown promise in several areas of medicine.
In addition to the anti-oxidant effects that ALA produces the list below shows why it is such an important supplement. The list of benefits includes:
Improval of physique
Combats free radicals
Protects our genetic material
Slows aging
Protects against heart disease
Protects against cancer
Improves skin and helps erase wrinkles
Protects against neuropathic pain
Regulates blood sugar in diabetics
Protects the liver
May be used as a treatment for Stroke
If Alpha-Lipoic Acid were just another antioxidant, then its value would be far less. After all, there are dozens of ingredients on the market that have powerful antioxidant functions. However, the unique qualities possessed by Alpha-Lipoic Acid, functioning as both a water- and fat-soluble antioxidant make it an intriguing ingredient and a supplement worthy of serious consideration.
The benefits of alpha lipoic acid originate from its ability to reverse and prevent cell damage. When taken as a supplement, it has been shown to lower blood sugar levels, repair skin damage, lower cholesterol, and reduce fatigue. As an antioxidant, alpha lipoic acid can enhance the benefits of other anti-inflammatory vitamins since it interacts with their residual properties. Topical creams and lotions that contain the supplement may help reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and facial scars.
Its ability to create antioxidant activity within the body's cells is one of the main benefits of alpha lipoic acid. When cells come into contact with free radicals, repeated exposure can lead to cell damage. Alpha lipoic acid helps prevent and reverse some of this potential damage by protecting the cell's structure from oxidization. It may also reduce vitamin and mineral deficiencies in individuals with chronic diseases, such as HIV.
Side benefits of alpha lipoic acid that result from its antioxidant activity include lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels. When used properly, alpha lipoic acid's ability to reduce low density cholesterol may be beneficial to individuals diagnosed with the beginning stages of heart disease. Those diagnosed with pre-diabetes can also benefit from the natural supplement since it tends to regulate insulin levels and metabolic activity.
Increasing the effectiveness of other supplements, such as vitamin C, is one of the benefits of alpha lipoic acid. When other antioxidant vitamins interact with alpha lipoic acid, their anti-inflammatory properties are temporarily rejuvenated. The body's cells receive multiple rounds of antioxidant activity with a smaller intake of vitamins. High levels of antioxidant activity within the body's cells are thought to prevent premature aging and diseases caused by inflammation.
Topical forms of alpha lipoic acid are sometimes used to reverse the signs of aging within the skin. Besides reducing fine lines and wrinkles, one of the additional benefits of alpha lipoic acid is its ability to repair damaged tissue. Some forms of scarring can be reduced, eliminated, or prevented with regular topical alpha lipoic acid use. For example, hyper-pigmentation due to moderate acne has shown some improvement with consistent application of topical alpha lipoic acid.
Since alpha lipoic acid influences metabolic activity, its use can increase an individual's energy levels. Those with chronic fatigue have demonstrated some improvement in their symptoms when taking the supplement regularly. Other symptoms associated with chronic fatigue disorder and diabetes, such as tingling and numbness, can be reduced by alpha lipoic acid supplementation as well.
If you are healthy, your body makes enough alpha-lipoic acid. It is also found in red meat, organ meats (such as liver), and yeast, particularly brewer's yeast.
Although there are some alpha lipoic acid in potatoes, spinach, broccoli, tomatoes, carrots, yams, sweet potatoes, and red meats (like the liver and the heart), it is quite difficult to get optimal amounts of it from food. That is why I take alpha lipoic acid supplement and recommend that you do the same
Alpha lipoic acid helps recycle the glutathione, another highly important anti-oxidant.
If you shop for alpha-lipoic supplements, look of the natural form that is labeled as "R Alpha-Lipoic Acid" or "R-Lipoic Acid". Often it comes in the "stabilized" form. Your body can absorb the natural form better than the synthetic form.
Generally, you should supplement your diet with 200-400 mg per day. Though there has been studies taken using higher doses of ALA, it is recommended that you stick to the suggested dose.
General antioxidant support: 20 - 50 mg per day
Diabetes and diabetic neuropathy: 800 mg per day in divided doses
For treating type 2 diabetes and improving symptoms such as burning, pain, and numbness in the legs and arms: 600 or 1200 mg daily.
Alpha Lipoic Acid is not a medication, therefore there is no prescribed dose. Those who are familiar with the supplement recommend a daily maintenance dose of between 50mg to 100mg in most cases.
Therapeutic dose: The amount of alpha lipoic acid used in research has ranged from 150-600 mg per day, with 600 mg per day being used to treat diabetic neuropathies and 150 mg per day for glaucoma.
HIV clinical studies have used 300 to 750 mg of alpha lipoic acid per day. However, patients exceeding the maintenance does must do so under the supervision of their physician. Some clinicians have reported that their patients experienced improved energy levels on doses of 500 to 800 mg a day.
Again, it should be remembered that these are suggested doses only. The FDA does not have an established recommended daily requirement for Alpha lipoic acid.
Clinical studies have shown few if any side effects among those who have been given Alpha Lipoic Acid supplements as directed. Side effects are generally rare and may include skin rash. Higher doses can cause nausea and upset stomachs, and excessive doses can even lead to low blood sugar. One positive side effect of taking Alpha Lipoic Acid is a mild and relaxed feeling, also described as a sense of well-being, reported by some who have taken this supplement.
At higher doses, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, like any other antioxidant, can reduce minerals from your body. In one study, iron in participants blood was shown to decrease significantly. For age-related treatment, this may be helpful in reducing the production of free-radicals. According to Tory Hagen, Ph.D of Linus Pauling Institute, Alpha lipoic acid is currently being researched for reducing the metal-related oxidant stress and slow the progression of alzheimer's disease. You and your doctor should monitor iron levels with regular blood tests if you are planning to take high doses of alpha lipoic acid.
Moreover, there are still more Alpha lipoic acid side effects that you have to know. For those who want to use Alpha lipoic acid supplements, there may appear certain allergic reactions which can cause hives, rashes, and itching. Other Alpha lipoic acid side effects that you have to concern include vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
In some studies, it is found that Alpha lipoic acid can lead to the digestion related problem. This is actually one of the most common side effects that caused by Alpha lipoic acid. This will lead to some health problems such as constipation and stomach ache.
Furthermore, the Alpha lipoic acid side effects may cause skin related problems for some people. This acid can make people get unnecessary sweating so that it can make your skin uncomfortable. Some other people may also experience skin hives and eager skin.
The Alpha lipoic acid side effects not only end on the skin problems. It is also found that Alpha lipoic acid can cause respiratory problems. When you feel that you have difficulty in breathing, your chest is tightness, and your pulse rate increases or decreases, these may be the result of Alpha lipoic acid.
In addition, when you are suffering cough, common cold, or runny nose, you may think that these are common disease that you do not need to worry. However, you have to be very careful since these can be possibly caused by Alpha lipoic acid. These kinds of cold related problems are generally accompanied by fever, and you may also experience bad headache as other Alpha lipoic acid side effects.
Instead of the Alpha lipoic acid side effects above, it is commonly observed that Alpha lipoic acid can cause insomnia, fatigue, and also over stimulation. It is also happened in some people to experience tingling in their whole body, muscle cramps, as well as swelling of the face and the extremities.
When talking about Alpha lipoic acid, you cannot only look at the side effects of this acid. You also need to check out the advantages rather than only to think about the Alpha lipoic acid side effects. With the correct directions, you can get maximum benefits from Alpha lipoic acid without having to worry about the side effects.
Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, you should take dietary supplements only under the supervision of a health care provider.
Alpha-lipoic acid hasn't been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women, so researchers don't know if it's safe.
Alpha-lipoic acid can lower blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes or low blood sugar should take alpha-lipoic acid only under the supervision of their health care provider. (See "Interactions" section.)
Animal studies suggest that people who don't get enough thiamine (vitamin B1) should not take alpha-lipoic acid. B1 deficiency is associated with long-term alcohol abuse.
If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use alpha-lipoic acid without first talking to your health care provider.
Medications for diabetes -- Apha-lipoic acid can combine with these drugs to lower blood sugar levels, raising the risk of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. Ask your health care provider before taking alpha-lipoic acid, and watch your blood sugar levels closely. Your health care provider may need to adjust your medication doses.
Chemotherapy medications -- Alpha lipoic acid may interfere with some chemotherapy medications. Always ask your oncologist before taking any herb or supplement, including alpha lipoic acid.
Thyroid medications, Levothyroxine -- Apha-lipoic acid may lower levels of thyroid hormone. Your health care provider should monitor blood hormone levels and thyroid function tests closely.
The following reviews have been selected:
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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars ala for diabetics, November 2, 2008
By
James E. Marceau "jimdaddy" (Kerrville Tx)
I am a diabetic, and take ala for neouropathy. It works wonders for diabetics to kill the pain of neourapathy. I havent lost 1 extra hair in the 3 years i have taken this medicine. I started off with 600mg twice a day for the first 90 days, and then switched to 100mg in the am, and 200 mg in the noon hour, and 200mg in the evening. Hair loss has not occured, nor ANY SIDE EFFECTS AT ALL!.I don't know about healthy folks, but diabetics need this medicine at some time in their life.
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Reviewer: grandma sue, 65-74 Female, 6/27/2009 8:29:52 PM
Comment:
Already a heart patient 4 yrs ago of Tacy/Brady, PVC, Atrial Fibrilation, 3 years ago, as a 63 yr old female, had excessive sleeping,ie, slept all night w/o waking 9-10 hrs; am low energy, slept 4-5 hrs afternoon sometimes back to bed around 10am not wanting to do chores in between. Sleep study doctor prescribed Alpha-Lipoic Acid 300mg sustained release am/pm or 600mg once a day. Within 2 days was doing normal chores and staying up all day with a sense of well being. After my hair thinning after Pancreatitis, Alpha Lipoic Acid w/Biotin helped my hair grow back some; it took months because I could not remember to take my meds on a regular basis.
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19 of 19 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful for skin, August 23, 2011
By
Jenn
I used this product after picking it up at a local health food store. I originally bought it because I had heard all the benefits of using it for skin. I do notice it helps my skin appear healthier... The only problem is that the results from this for the skin are not permanent. When you stop taking it you may start to notice your skin going back to it's old ways (acne, oily, less vibrant, etc) . I personally do not mind taking this for the rest of my life because it is cheap, healthy and best of all effective.
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Reviewer: lobo, 75 or over Male, 1/2/2009 1:48:03 PM
Comment:
I am a 65 year old male. I take 2.5 mg Plendil and 160 mg Diovan for treatment of high blood pressure. Teatment is effective. I tried Alpha Lipoic Acid as an anti-oxidant. I take the cardiac meds in the morning prior to breakfast. I took 200 mg. ALA with breakfast for three days. Each time I experienced tightness in the chest and shortness of breath, acid stomach and abdominal discomfort. I discontinued the ALA and symptoms disappeared. Recommend people using cardiac meds in particular be very cautious when beginning use of aplha lipoic acid in any form.
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Reason for taking: Peripheral neuropathy
Reviewer: Harold B, 55-64 Male, 11/25/2011 10:54:03 PM
Comment:
For about 7 years I had terrible stabbing and burning pain in my upper left leg that would occur late at night when I would wake up and move my leg. It was so bad that the entire area went numb for years and I could feel electric type pulses flowing from the area from time to time. In 2009 I started with 600mg and the pain is almost completely gone and the electric pulses have stopped as well. If I start to feel the pain I realize that I forgot to take my ALA.
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5.0 out of 5 stars ...Alpha Lipoic Acid, January 15, 2012
By
Sassynannie
I am so happy to have found this product.. I no longer have the terrible leg pain that kept me from doing the things I wanted to.. I highly recomend Alpha Lipoic Acid thank you
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Reason for taking: Diabetes
Reviewer: 55-64 Male, 11/21/2011 11:30:51 PM
Comment:
Started taking this when first diagnosed with type 2 diabetes .Helps keep blood sugars low . Have been taking it for 2 yrs now with my rx meds .I have not taken them a few times and my blood sugar levels raised.This proved to me how well they work
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4.0 out of 5 stars Worked well for peripheral neuropathy, but gave me terrible headaches, January 3, 2012
By
Celery (NYC, USA)
I went through 2 bottles of this stuff and found that it really helped with my peripheral neuropathy - nerve pain in hands and feet. I saw results after finishing the first bottle. However, i got such bad headaches from taking it that I had to stop. I wasn't taking it for my skin, but it's worth noting that I didn't see any changes in the two months i took it. But maybe it takes longer to see skin changes.
I wish i didn't get headaches as a side effect because these tablets really seemed to help with the nerve pain. They are worth trying if you suffer from neuropathy - it doesn't seem that other commenters have had headache issues. This is an aside - but i also found that taking Boswellia helped a lot with peripheral neuropathy.
I wish you all luck with finding pain relief if that's what you're in search of!
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Reason for taking: Diabetes
Reviewer: Grimjax, 35-44 Male, 11/16/2011 4:48:17 PM
Comment:
I take 600mg once a day. I've actually off my metphormin and insulin now. If you take, please monitor your blood sugar levels very carefully, especially while on other meds. If you are taking other prescription drugs please contact your doctor about any known interactions between them.
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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Cheers to Good Health, April 17, 2009
By
David G. Smalley Jr..... (Petersburg,Va.)
If you want to keep your glucose level in your blood in limits, and hope for healing of your neuropathy problem with feet nerves...take this product in massive doses daily...like 5 each meal...my sugar glucose levels has been in limits like 118, after eating toasted bread butter and cream cheese.......Alpha Lipioc Acid is good for you with diabetes 1 and 2.
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Reason for taking: Diabetic neuropathy
Reviewer: jaasak, 55-64 Male, 11/7/2011 4:23:57 PM
Comment:
Type 2 diabetic. Since usage is about 8 months noticed overall decrease in any pain in feet. Have more sensations, nerves, etc. in feet. Recent DR test showed very good responses. Use in conjunction with B6. I am NOT taking any diabetic meds (lost 50 lbs to ensure that!).
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars Great for Nerve Damage!, June 29, 2010
By
TiffanysWorld
Great choice for those who are experiencing any type of nerve damage, in particularly carpel tunnel syndrom. Works great to regenerate tissues, but must take on a continual basis for at least 6 - 8 weeks.
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