Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful metabolic antioxidant used to treat and prevent various conditions. Earth Clinic readers report it as an affordable, effective supplement for weight loss, inflammation, diabetes, neuropathy, and liver health.

ALA Overview

Although popular in the past two decades, ALA research dates back to the 1930s. This guide reviews its benefits, uses, dosages, and potential side effects.

History

• Discovery (1937): Researchers at the University of Wisconsin linked ALA to bacterial reproduction in potato juice.
• Isolation (1951): Scientists isolated ALA, later using it clinically in Germany (1959) to treat mushroom poisoning.
• Antioxidant Role: ALA regenerates antioxidants like vitamins C and E, reducing free radicals that cause aging, heart disease, and inflammation.

ALA and Cell Protection

ALA prevents cell damage linked to oxygen deprivation in the following conditions:

1. Ischemia: Restricted blood flow (source).
2. Diabetes and Neuropathy: (source).
3. Atherosclerosis: Plaque buildup in arteries (source).
4. Neurodegeneration: Progressive neuron loss (source).
5. High Blood Pressure: (source).

Tumors and Cancer

ALA shows potential in fighting cancer cells:

• Damages tumor cells (study).
• Reduces cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis (source).

Weight Loss Benefits

• Mechanism: ALA reduces hunger-triggering enzymes like AMPK in the hypothalamus (source).
• Research Findings: Short-term weight loss with further studies needed on dosage and long-term effects (source).

Reader-Reported Benefits

Earth Clinic readers highlight ALA's role in:

• Relieving neuropathy and reducing blood sugar levels.
• Addressing liver disease, burning mouth syndrome, hepatitis C, and more.

Advantages of ALA

1. Universal antioxidant, working inside and outside cells.
2. Soluble in both water and fat.
3. Benefits various conditions, including diabetes and neuroprotection.

Natural vs. Synthetic ALA

• R-ALA (Natural): Found in plants and animals; highly effective.
• S-ALA (Synthetic): Stabilizes R-ALA but may reduce effectiveness. Look for pure R-ALA products.

ALA Dosages

• Neuropathy: 200–300 mg daily (common in Europe).
• Antioxidant Use: 20–50 mg daily; up to 600 mg tolerated.
• Anti-Aging: 400 mg daily.
• Diabetes/Liver Disease: 800–1,600 mg daily, 30 minutes before meals.

Dietary Sources

Foods with small amounts of ALA:

• Spinach, broccoli, potatoes, tomatoes, red meat (especially organ meat).

Side Effects

• May cause low blood sugar in diabetics; consult a doctor.
• Watch for irregular heart rhythms at high doses.

Where to Buy

Affordable ALA supplements are widely available. Choose stabilized R-ALA for maximum benefits.

Stabilized R-Alpha Lipoic Acid ((True)) 600mg per Serving [[High Potency & up to 40x Increased Absorption]] (Na R-ALA) (Na R-LA) (Na R-Lipoate) (1 Bottle) - $28.99

Life Extension Super R-Lipoic Acid, 240mg, 60-Count - $27.07

Alpha Lipoic Acid 600mg Per Serving, 240 Vegan Capsules- Pharmaceutical Grade, Gluten Free, Pure Non-GMO ALA- Supports Healthy Blood Sugar, Energy & Anti Oxidant - $16.99