Alpha Lipoic Acid

We discuss the impressive health benefits of Alpha Lipoic Acid, a powerful antioxidant known for its potential to support cellular health and boost antioxidant defences.

Alpha-Lipoic-Acid or ALA is a sulphur component produced by plants, animals and humans.

In humans, it is found in the mitochondria, the energy centre of the cells where is acts as a co-factor for different enzymatic functions required for the production of energy.

The human body creates a small amount of ALA, but what we mostly consume is from fruit, vegetables and meat. However, It is primarily found in plant-based sources. Some common dietary sources of ALA are:

• Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil
• Chia seeds
• Hemp seeds and hempseed oil
• Walnuts
• Soybeans and soybean oil
• Canola oil
• Leafy green vegetables, such as spinach and kale

It is a metal chelating agent, meaning it supports the removal of heavy metals from the blood stream.

Its involvement in glucose and lipid metabolism means it is useful for blood glucose control in diabetes and has been used therapeutically to support symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.

ALA is both water and fat soluble and has powerful antioxidant abilities. It inactivates free radicals and repairs damage but can also help to produce and restore other important antioxidants such as glutathione and vitamins C and E. Studies have also shown it maybe useful in the prevention of ovarian damage from certain chemotherapy drugs via its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Side effects of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) supplementation are uncommon but may include insomnia, fatigue, diarrhea, and skin rash. It's important for individuals with diabetes or low blood sugar to use caution when taking ALA and seek guidance from their healthcare provider before starting supplementation.