Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is an organic compound usually found in human cells. This organic compound is produced in the mitochondria and assists enzymes as they turn nutrients into energy. Although alpha lipoic acid is naturally produced in the body, it can be found in a variety of foods and also as a dietary supplement. This organic compound is both water and fat-soluble, which enables it to function effectively in every cell and tissue in the body.
What are the Health Benefits of Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Alpha lipoic acid provides tremendous health benefits. Some of these include:
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Inflammation is referred to as a process by which the body's immune system fights off offending agents and heals injury using cells. Most chronic inflammation is often associated with cancer, and diabetes among other diseases. However, Alpha lipoic acid has been proven to reduce several inflammatory markers.
• Maintain Blood Sugar: Alpha lipoic acid is observed to affect blood sugar levels. It can eliminate radicals present in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, improving pain, burning sensations, itching, tingling as well and numbness in their arms and legs which may arise from nerve damage.
• Eye Health: Alpha lipoic acid contains strong antioxidant properties. These antioxidants are behind the maintenance of eye health during aging. With Alpha lipoic acid, age-related eye conditions are prevented, and to an extent, this organic compound has the potential to reverse eye damage associated with diseases such as diabetes.
• Brain Health: Oxidative stress often occurs due to age. It is also associated with the development of heart-related diseases and critically affects brain health and memory. Researchers concluded that this might be due to the positive effect of ALA on insulin resistance alongside the metabolism of blood sugar because diabetes is a risk factor for Alzheimer's Disease.
• Improves Skin: Alpha lipoic acid contains powerful active ingredients that are essential for sensitive skin types. With its ability to break down collagen, it reduces the emergence of wrinkles, decreases pore size, etc.
• Energizer: Alpha lipoic acid is essential for digestion, absorption, and energy creation in the body. This organic compound enables enzymes present in the body to turn nutrients into energy.
What is Some Foods High in Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Below are some of the good sources of alpha lipoic acid:
• walnuts
• avacados
• broccoli
• spinach
• flax seeds
• Brussels sprouts
• salmon/shell fish
How should I take Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Alpha lipoic acid is found naturally in different foods and as supplements too. When taken as supplements, they are best taken on an empty stomach. Although there is no specific dosage for this compound, most research suggests that around 300-600 mg is sufficient and safe.
What are the Side Effects of Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Generally, Alpha lipoic acid is considered safe with little or no side effects. In very few cases, people tend to experience itching, nausea, or rashes which are usually mild.
Are there Drug Interactions?
Yes, there are some drug interactions with Alpha lipoic acid and other drugs. Generally, omega-3 fatty acids may increase the blood-thinning effects of warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, or other blood-thinning medications. This could lead to the risk of increased bleeding. Additionally, ALA is a viable supplement to improve some of the glycemic and inflammatory biomarkers, so some caution with diabetes medications including Glucophage (metformin), sulfonylureas, and alpha-glucosidase inhibitors.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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