Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha Lipoic Acid, or ALA for short, is a fatty acid which is found inside every cell within the human body. It plays a major role in the Krebs Cycle of energy production by converting glucose into energy. The human body actually creates enough ALA on its own to provide for this function.

In the 1980s, ALA was discovered to be a powerful antioxidant. The biggest drawback to this benefit was that there had to be ample supplies of ALA circulating in the bloodstream to provide for this effect. Thus, supplementing with ALA provides enough of this fatty acid to support its antioxidant capabilities.

While other antioxidants such as Vitamin E and Vitamin C only operate in the fatty and watery regions of the body, respectively, Alpha Lipoic Acid combats free radicals in both of these areas of the body. This is a major advantage over these other antioxidants. In addition, supplemental ALA actually increases the lifespan of Vitamins E and C, allowing them to be even more effective.

Alpha Lipoic Acid may also benefit weight loss programs. ALA has been shown to improve blood sugar regulation and actually reduces insulin resistance. ALA speeds the removal of glucose from the blood through its insulin enhancing capabilities, promoting steadier blood sugar levels for increased weight loss success.

There is no recommended dosage for ALA, but typical ranges fall anywhere from 600mg to 1,200mg to 1,800mg daily.