Alpha Lipoic Acid (thioctic acid or ALA) is a potent antioxidant.

Alpha Lipoic Acid was first discovered in the 1950s. It is an enzyme found in the mitochondria, which are the energy powerhouses of human cells. Scientists in the late 1980s discovered that it possessed powerful antioxidant properties. In addition, it recycles other antioxidants, specifically Vitamin C and Vitamin E, enhancing their potency. Unlike other antioxidants, it has the unique ability to be active in both water and fat compartments in the body. Thus, Alpha Lipoic Acid is sometimes referred to as a ?universal antioxidant? and is more effective in neutralizing free radicals than the majority of other antioxidants. It also plays an important role in the process that recycles glutathione, which is another major antioxidant in the body. Finally, it assists B vitamins in converting carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into energy. Here is a summary of Alpha Lipoic Acid benefits:

• ALA acts as a powerful antioxidant.
• ALA supports healthy glucose metabolism.
• ALA may support healthy energy levels.
• ALA assists enzymes in conversion of food to energy.
• ALA helps support healthy liver function.
• ALA may support healthy immune function.
• ALA may support healthy eyesight

Alpha Lipoic Acid is a powerful antioxidant that works with other nutrients such as vitamins C & E and gluththione to defend against excessive free radicals. It is called an universal antioxidant because it is soluble in both water and lipid based tissue.

Alpha Lipoic Acid is used by the body to metabolize food and for energy production. ALA is also an antioxidant that may prevent free-radical damage.

Although there have been hundreds of studies over the last 40 years revealing how Alpha Lipoic Acid energizes metabolism, the new excitement about this vitamin-like substance can be seen in the countless recent studies focusing on how it improves the physique, combats free radicals, protects our genetic material, and slows aging

Although we make some lipoic acid in our bodies, it is usually not enough, so we rely on food - potatoes, red meat, etc. - to supply what we need for optimal health. Alpha-lipoic acid supplements are now available in health food stores to ensure that we get a sufficient intake of the nutrient.

Interaction with vitamins C & E

Lipoic acid has also been used for decades to protect the liver and to detoxify the body of heavy metal pollutants, such as excessive iron and copper and toxic metals such as cadmium, lead and mercury.

It appears that alpha-lipoic acid, alone or together with vitamin E or C, is an effective treatment for radiation exposure, lessening indices of oxidative damage and normalizing organ function, according to Lester Packer, Ph.D., et al. in Free Radical Biology and Medicine 1995. This therapy has been effective in treating children living in areas affected by the Chernobyl tragedy in the former Soviet Unlon.

Neither animal nor human studies, so far, have shown serious side effects with the use of alpha-lipoic acid, Packer says. However, it is not recommended for pregnant women without proper supervision since it may interfere with vitamin B-1 utilization. A thiamine supplement may be warranted if lipoic acid is given to thiamine-deficient individuals, such as alcoholics.

Maitra and colleagues added that concentrations of glutathione, vitamin C and vitamin E, which decrease after BSO administration, were restored to levels similar to the controls. Lipoic acid also restored the protein complexes glutathione peroxidase and catalase, as well as ascorbate free radical reductase activities in the lens of the animals.

Hans-J. Tritschler, Ph.D., a well-known researcher of lipoic acid, says that the substance is a very important co-factor for glucose metabolism. And, since it is both fat- and water-soluble, it is the missing link between the metabolism of vitamin E and C.

"Since there isn't an overwhelming amount of alpha-lipoic acid in our bodies, an expert panel has recommended 50 mg/day as a preventive measure against diseases caused by free-radical attacks," Tritschler says.

Bogus Claims Warning

Ingredients

Dosage

Typical daily dosages range from 300 to 600 mgs.

Cautions

Alpha lipoic acid occasionally causes mild gastrointestinal discomfort when taken in high doses (over 3g), taking with a meal usually eliminates this reaction. Discontinue use and consult a health care practitioner if symptoms worsen or persist.

If you are pregnant or lactating consult a health care practitioner prior to using alpha lipoic acid

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Manufacture
Supplementspot