Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)

Supplements

Susan Spinasanta
Medical Writer
SpineUniverse
Desert Hot Springs, CA
 

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The Basics

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (an antioxidant produced by the body) helps to neutralize the effects of free radicals on the body. ALA enhances the antioxidant functions of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and glutathione (an enzyme key to preventing the breakdown of red blood cells resulting in anemia). Plus, this nutrient assists two important enzymes that are responsible for converting food into energy.

Free radicals are waste products the body creates when food is turned into energy. The body can use some free radicals, but too many can reduce immunity needed to fight infection, cancer, and heart disease. Free radicals are everywhere in our environment, such as car exhaust, radiation, and ultraviolet rays. Alpha-lipoic acid can help the body in the constant fight against the toxic effects of free radicals.

A few of the benefits from ALA include: slows the aging process, efficiently removes sugar (glucose) from the blood, assists the liver to eliminate toxins, and decreases the toxic effects from some drugs used to treat pain. Diabetics have found alpha-lipoic acid to reduce symptoms associated with nerve damage (i.e. pain, burning, numbness).

Alpha-lipoic acid has the ability to protect and pass into the brain and nerve tissues. This is because ALA is both water and fat-soluble. In the future, this supplement may prove to benefit patients of stroke and other brain disorders. The survival rate in animal studies from stroke increased when alpha-lipoic acid was administered.

Sources

Yeast, beef, spinach, broccoli, and kidney are all good sources. Alpha-lipoic acid is also available in capsule and tablet form in dosages ranging from 30-mg to 100-mg.

Guidelines and Cautions

Although a recommended daily dose has not been established, most labeling indicates 50-mg to 100-mg per day as a dietary supplement.

Always consult a medical professional before taking alpha-lipoic acid, especially if any of the following conditions exist: pregnancy or breast-feeding, diabetes, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hepatitis.

Last Updated: 02/06/2004
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Peer Review by Leading Specialists

    Vincent Traynelis, MD

    Although many patient's describe improvement in their condition after taking one of the supplements previously described, the Editorial Board is unable to endorse these supplements, as there is insufficient peer reviewed research available. Hopefully the role of these compounds will be better understood once more scientific research is compiled.
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