Alpha-lipoic acid, also known as lipoic acid, is an antioxidant that is manufactured by the body, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). It's sometimes called a universal antioxidant because it is both water and fat-soluble. This feature allows it to work throughout your body. Lipoic acid helps convert glucose into energy. The benefits of lipoic acid may range from improving the quality of your skin, to preventing strokes, to treating the symptoms of diabetes.
Skin Care
Lipoic Acid is a vitamin-like antioxidant that helps to neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals, according to the National Library of Medicine. Free radicals can harm the cells in your body, making it more difficult to fight off illness and infection.
The Cleveland Clinic says alpha-lipoic acid has been referred to as "the miracle in a jar" because of its anti-aging effects. When applied topically, it may reduce fine lines and give skin a healthier appearance while protecting it from further damage.
Diabetes
The ability of lipoic acid to not only destroy free radicals, but also lower blood sugar levels may help people who suffer from diabetes-related nerve damage, known as peripheral neuropathy, according to UMMC. This condition can cause pain, itching, burning, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.
Alpha-lipoic acid supplementation may also help treat another diabetes-related malady called autonomic neuropathy, according to UMMC. This disorder damages the nerves that supply the heart and may affect your heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.
Brain Protector
The protective effects of lipoic acid on nerve tissue may benefit the brain. The Mayo Clinic says scientists are looking into lipoic acid as a possible treatment for stroke and other brain disorders involving free radical damage.
Preliminary animal research has found that animals who were given alpha-lipoic acid were much more likely to survive a stroke than animals who did not take the supplement. The Mayo Clinic says further research is needed to determine whether these promising animal findings would hold true in humans.
Alzheimer's Disease
People who suffer from Alzheimer's Disease, the most common cause of dementia, may benefit from taking lipoic acid supplements, according to Christia Net.com. The theory is that its ability to increase blood flow and oxygen to the brain may enhance brain function. The Mayo Clinic states that Alzheimer's is a degenerative disease that causes a continual decline in mental abilities and memory.
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