The Benefits Of Alpha Lipoic Acid

Occurring naturally in the human body and in green leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli, alpha-lipoic acid is considered one of the most effective antioxidants, according to the website "The World's Healthiest Foods." The University of Maryland Medical Center writes that ALA is found in every cell of the body, where it converts glucose into energy. ALA has emerged as a nutritional supplement as people look to increase antioxidant consumption and to combat symptoms related to type II diabetes.

Antioxidant Effects

According to the UMMC, free radicals mutate cells by causing harmful chemical reactions. These unattached oxygen molecules float through the bloodstream, damaging blood cells, cellular tissue and organs. Antioxidants attack free radicals, improving cell function and immune response. Alpha-lipoic acid is unique in that it is both fat- and water-soluble, as opposed to most compounds which are one or the other.

Treats Diabetes

ALA has a dual effect on diabetes. The antioxidant power reduces pain and numbness related to diabetes. The UMMC writes that the acid itself offsets blood glucose levels. Researchers at the Max Grundig Clinic in Baden-Baden, Germany tested ALA on type II diabetics. Seventy-four diabetics were enrolled in the study, measuring varying doses of ALA against a placebo group. When compared to placebo, the ALA treatment group showed a 27 percent improvement in insulin sensitivity, but there was no significant evidence suggesting that the effect was dose-dependent.

Prevents Skin Aging

When used as a topical instead of a nutritional supplement, alpha-lipoic acid can protect the skin from aging effects related to sun damage. Swedish research showed that a 5 percent concentration of ALA, when applied twice daily, could relieve skin roughness and improve other signs of photoaging. The Cleveland Clinic reports that ALA reduces wrinkles and fine lines and restores its healthy appearance.

HIV Inhibitor

The human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, constantly reproduces itself in the form of T-cells, which circulate throughout the body breaking down the immune system. German researchers studied the effect of ALA on cell growth and reproduction. In laboratory experiments, ALA was added to infectious T-cells. The result was a 90 percent reduction in cell reproduction, leading the research team to conclude that ALA should be included in HIV trials.

Liver Booster

The human liver produces bile, an enzyme which breaks down fats in the digestive process. When a person consumes unhealthy levels of fat or is obese, fat can buildup on the liver. This condition, called fatty liver, is particularly common in those with type II diabetes. South Korean scientists have shown that ALA can prevent fatty liver in numerous ways, including insulin modulation and the increased production of fat-burning amino acids.