![]() ![]() Has Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effectsīecause it acts like an antidote to oxidative stress and inflammation, alpha lipoic acid seems to fight damage done to the blood vessels, brain, neurons and organs, like the heart or liver.īeing low in antioxidants in general can speed up in the aging process, resulting in symptoms like a weakened immune function, decreased muscle mass, cardiovascular problems and memory problems. Both are sometimes referred to as ALA, which can be confusing, but they’re two different nutrients with different roles in the body. Note: Alpha lipoic acid is not the same thing as alpha linolenic acid, a type of omega-3 fatty acid. This means it can be properly absorbed despite what types of foods you’re eating, and it can be used in almost all parts of the body. Something that makes ALA unique is that it’s both water-soluble and fat-soluble, unlike other nutrients (like B vitamins or vitamin A, C, D or E). Additionally, it helps the body digest and utilize carbohydrate molecules. ![]() It also works in the body to restore essential vitamin levels, such as vitamin E and vitamin C, and acts as a cofactor for several important mitochondrial enzymes. Like other antioxidants, alpha lipoic acid can help slow down cellular damage that is one of the root causes of diseases. ![]() Within our cells, ALA is converted into dihydrolipoic acid, which has protective effects over normal cellular reactions, such as those involved in metabolic functions and neuron signaling. Studies show this can have far-reaching benefits.ĪLA’s most valuable role in the body is fighting the effects of free radicals, which are dangerous, chemical-reaction byproducts that form during the process of oxidation. Is it “essential” that you consume a certain dosage of alpha lipoic acid every day? Not exactly, which is why it’s not considered an “essential nutrient.”Įven though we can make some of it on our own without supplements or outside food sources, eating an antioxidant-packed diet plus potentially using ALA supplements can increase the amount circulating in the body. It’s present in every cell inside the body and helps turn glucose into “fuel” for the body to use for energy. What Is Alpha Lipoic Acid?Īlpha lipoic acid (also called lipoic acid or thioctic acid) is an organosulfur compound found in the body and also synthesized by plants and animals. It’s naturally abundant in foods like green veggies, potatoes and certain types of yeast - plus it can be man-made in a lab and taken as an oral anti-inflammatory supplement. Humans make a small amount of ALA on their own, although the concentration in our bloodstreams goes up substantially when we eat a healthy diet. What is alpha-lipoic acid good for? It helps scavenge free radicals and slows the aging process - but perhaps its most famous use is in helping treat diabetes naturally. What is it about foods like broccoli and spinach that make them so healthy? There are the fiber, vitamins and minerals, of course, but then there are other important chemical compounds we call “antioxidants,” too - including alpha lipoic acid (ALA).Ĭhances are you’ve heard a lot about the many benefits of various antioxidants and high-antioxidant foods - fighting inflammation, helping to beat cancer and so much more - but have you ever wondered what exactly antioxidants are and how they work in the body?Īlpha lipoic acid - one kind of antioxidant - is a type of compound found in plant foods we commonly eat. ![]()
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