Looking for all-natural ways to improve your overall health? Alpha-lipoic acid could be the answer! This powerful antioxidant, first isolated from spinach in 1951 and later produced synthetically, has been shown to offer a variety of potential benefits. From helping to boost cognitive function and energy levels, to protecting the body against oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
Read on to learn more about alpha-lipoic acid’s impressive health profile, as well as safety considerations and tips on how to best incorporate it into your routine!
Alpha Lipoic Acid: What is it?
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an organic compound found naturally in many food sources, including broccoli and spinach. ALA is a fatty acid, which makes it unique from most other antioxidants in that it can dissolve in fat, not water. In the body, ALA helps the body use glucose for energy and plays a role in correcting cell damage – protecting against oxidative stress.
The main benefits of alpha-lipoic acid and its hidden secrets.
Alpha-lipoic acid is able to act as an antioxidant in the body.
Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals, molecules that damage cells and tissues. Free radicals can be caused by environmental toxins, stress, and radiation exposure. Alpha Lipoic Acid helps reduce these harmful molecules to protect cells from their effects.
Studies have shown that ALA may even help prevent certain types of cancer by neutralizing carcinogens before they can cause harm. Additionally, studies suggest that taking ALA supplements may be helpful for people at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or dementia due to its potential ability to reduce oxidative stress in brain cells and improve cognitive functions such as memory and learning ability.
Alpha lipoic acid can control blood sugar.
In addition to its antioxidant properties, alpha-lipoic acid improves insulin sensitivity in some people with type 2 diabetes mellitus and other metabolic disorders associated with insulin resistance. By increasing insulin sensitivity, it promotes better blood sugar control and thus reduces the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as nerve damage or heart disease.
Alpha-lipoic acid has anti-inflammatory power.
This is one of the lesser known benefits of alpha lipoic acid. Its anti-inflammatory potential could be beneficial for people suffering from chronic inflammation due to autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Studies suggest that taking ALA supplements may help reduce symptoms associated with these conditions, including joint pain, swelling, redness, fatigue, and fever.
Additionally, research indicates that taking ALA supplements regularly can help slow the aging process by reducing oxidative damage caused by free radicals that build up over time in our bodies, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of premature aging on our skin.
Several other advantages have been unveiled.
The hidden secrets of alpha-lipoic acid lie not only in its known benefits, but also in emerging research regarding potential new uses such as:
- Promoting healthy weight loss by improving glucose metabolism and reducing fat accumulation in adipose tissue.
- Protection against complications related to alcohol consumption.
- Prevention of cognitive disorders due to aging.
- Improved cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol levels.
- Increased energy levels.
- Boosting immunity against infections such as colds or flu viruses through its powerful antioxidant effects on immune cells.
Alpha-lipoic acid: Dosage, side effects, contraindications.
When it comes to alpha-lipoic acid dosage, most studies have used doses ranging from 600 to 1200 mg per day. For maximum benefit, this dose should be divided into two or three equal doses taken throughout the day. It is often recommended to take alpha-lipoic acid with meals to increase its absorption and reduce stomach upset.
However, it is important to note that higher doses can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Therefore, it is important to speak with your doctor before taking a higher dose of alpha lipoic acid supplements.
Although alpha lipoic acid is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses, there are some contraindications associated with its use. For example, people with diabetes should not take alpha-lipoic acid supplements without first consulting their doctor, due to possible interaction with diabetes medications.
People with kidney disease may also avoid taking large amounts of alpha-lipoic acid due to its potential effect on kidney function tests. Additionally, pregnant women should avoid taking alpha-lipoic acid supplements, as there is insufficient evidence regarding its safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
