What Is Alpha Lipoic Acid?

Alpha lipoic acid is a potent dual solubility antioxidant and mitochondrial coenzyme that aids in burning glucose to form energy (as ATP). Alpha lipoic acid supplements can be used as an antioxidant throughout the body. It is also called lipoic acid, ALA, alpha-lipoate, or thioctic acid. But don't confuse it with alpha-linolenic acid, also known as ALA.

An Introduction to Dual Solubility Antioxidants

Antioxidants are molecules that deactivate free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive and unstable molecules and damage surrounding tissues and nutrients. Because antioxidants tend to be either fat or water-soluble (e.g. Vitamin C is water-soluble, and vitamin E is fat-soluble), they can protect only certain body regions. However, lipoic acid is more versatile because it is fat and water-soluble. Our bodies consist of approximately 70% water, and our cells have membranes made of fats. Alpha lipoic acid's dual solubility means it can move into all areas of the body to deactivate harmful free radicals. This allows it to reduce damage to tissues all over the body, including those in the eye, liver, blood vessels and nerves.

Benefits for the Liver and Detoxification

Alpha lipoic acid improves the functioning of the liver, the body's chief detoxifying organ, via its antioxidant capabilities. We need antioxidants to combat the free radicals we encounter through environmental exposures like cigarette smoke, air pollution, and ultraviolet radiation from the sun (UV rays). Free radicals can even occur as byproducts from our digestion.

Most antioxidants get "used up" when they deactivate free radicals. However, ALA is different because it not only acts as an antioxidant but also helps to regenerate other antioxidants in the body. These include coenzyme Q10, glutathione, vitamin E and vitamin C. These antioxidants are all used by the liver to render toxins and metabolic byproducts harmless. This is how ALA supports a multitude of antioxidant reactions, including the detoxification pathways in the liver.

Benefits for Blood Sugar and Diabetes

Alpha lipoic acid has several researched benefits for diabetes and poor blood sugar control. It does this by allowing cells to respond better to insulin and reduce blood sugar levels. At the same time, it can help people with diabetes with poor glucose control avoid adverse side effects. Essentially, excess blood sugar triggers potent free radical formation that results in damage to blood vessels and nerves. This results in cardiovascular disease and peripheral neuropathy, two common side effects in those with diabetes. There is also substantial research showing improvement in nerve conduction and arterial flow when people with diabetes supplement with ALA.

Anti-Aging Role, Inside and Out

Alpha lipoic acid's antioxidant powers allow it to have anti-aging properties that protect the body against environmental pollutants, UV rays, and other toxins that lead to aging. You can take alpha lipoic acid internally as a supplement. Or, you can use it topically to protect your skin from free radical damage. In addition to protecting the skin, lipoic acid helps to protect blood vessels to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and can prevent nerve damage. Plus, it can help protect our eyes as we age. This is because free radical damage exacerbates cataracts, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Therefore, you can use lipoic acid to help treat these conditions.

How Can I Get More Alpha Lipoic Acid?

The body produces ALA in small amounts. Unfortunately, these amounts are generally inadequate due to our high free radical exposure. You can take alpha lipoic acid supplements on their own. You can also find ALA in formulas to enhance liver health, prevent age-related disease, and balance blood sugar.

Lipoic acid supplements can be found in both the "S" and "R" forms. Regardless of which form you buy, your alpha lipoic acid supplement will be dual soluble.

Because alpha-lipoic has a very short half-life in the body (just over 20 minutes), the dosage timing is essential. Some lipoic acid supplements will contain a sustained release (SR) matrix. This means they release continuous doses over several hours, allowing for a steadier amount throughout the day.

Important Notes

Lipoic acid may alter blood sugar levels. It is advised that people with diabetes and hypoglycemia should take caution when using it. Please be careful with other medications for glucose control. Skin rashes may occur in some people.

Alpha Lipoic Acid FAQs

What Are Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplements Used For?

You can use lipoic acid for anti-aging, diabetes and blood sugar support, and detoxification support.

How Much ALA Should You Take a Day?

You can take 50-100 mg per day in divided doses. Your practitioner may recommend a higher dose.

Where to Buy Lipoic Acid in Canada?

You can find alpha lipoic acid supplements at most health food stores.

Are Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplements Safe?

Yes, it is safe to take ALA supplements. Take caution if you have Diabetes or blood sugar issues, or if you take medication that affects your blood sugar.