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Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant naturally formed in our bodies in small amounts. It is somewhat like a vitamin, in that it needs to be supplemented in order to reach levels that are effective. It is a powerful free radical scavenger, and protects our bodies in many different organ systems. It has been studied for more than 40 years. No serious side effects have been identified.
Diabetics seem to receive particular benefit from this substance. Alpha lipoic acid helps ward off diabetic neuropathy (painful extremities) and retinopathy (a common cause of blindness). It also helps regulate blood sugar and prevent cardiomyopathy. Alpha lipoic acid may even be involved in nerve regeneration. Promising studies are underway to determine its value in retarding the onset of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Diseases.
There is a significant degree of interaction between ALA and vitamins C and E. It has been found that it conserves both of these vitamins and promotes the effective interaction between them. It helps the liver in detoxification pathways for heavy metal pollutants.
Dosage: The amount of lipoic acid needed as an effective preventive measure is about 50 mg/day. In people with diabetes or early cataracts, 200 mg/day may be preferred. In cases of severe diabetic neuropathy, doses as high as 1000 mg/day are given.
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