Health Benefits of Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)

What is Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha Lipoic Acid, (ALA) sometimes called Lipoic Acid, or Thioctic Acid, is a fatty acid contained in every cell of the human body and is used to produce energy for normal bodily functions. ALA has antioxidant qualities that help fight cell-damaging free radicals in the body. ALA was first claimed to be an effective antioxidant when it was found it prevented the symptoms of vitamin C and vitamin E deficiency. It was also discovered that ALA unlike most antioxidants, is both water and fat soluble which increases its effectiveness.

Alpha Lipoic Acid for Anti-Aging

Again, ALA is an antioxidant that helps fight cell-damaging free radicals in the body which damage cell membranes. It also helps revitalize the underlying structure of the skin to make it look healthier, more radiant and keep wrinkles away. Because of its numerous benefits ALA has been consumed as dietary supplements in the United States since the early 1990s with typical doses of 100-200 mg/day.

Alpha Lipoic Acid Origin

ALA is found in almost all foods, but slightly more so in organ meat such as; kidney, heart, liver. It is also found abundantly in green vegetables such as; spinach, broccoli, peas and brussel sprouts. Processed or overcooked foods contain very little if any alpha lipoic acid, making it hard for some to get enough ALA in their diets.

Alpha Lipoic Acid Research

In an experiment that consisted of approximately 80 people with liver damage, 95% recovered full liver function after taking ALA supplements. In fact, two of the individuals responsible for the study were appointed by the FDA as principal investigators for ALA. One of the investigators also went on to use ALA to successfully treat chronic liver disease and pancreatic cancer.

Other studies show ALA may also have the ability to reverse the symptoms of a B-cell lymphoma, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease although all these experiments are still very controversial. One other benefit of ALA is that it may also be a chelating agent, but is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as such yet.

Alpha Lipoic Acid Side Effects

Some possible side effects of ALA supplementation include; headaches, skin rashes and muscle cramps. There have also been some rare cases of insulin autoimmune syndrome which causes hypoglycemia. Pregnant or nursing women, children, people with kidney or liver damage, or thyroid conditions should always consult a doctor before supplementing ALA.


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