According to the American Cancer Society, lipoic acid plays an important role in metabolism or the way that cells process chemicals in the body with recent research linking it to the treatment of nerve damage in diabetics. Studies are still unclear as to whether it is helpful for other conditions or the prevention and treatment of certain types of cancer. Lipoic acid can be found in supplement form in health food stores or online however a safe and effective dosage has not yet been determined. Certain food are known to contain a natural form of lipoic acid.
Meats
According to The Linus Pauling Institute, kidney, heart and liver are food sources that contain alpha-lipoic acid. Red meat can also contain lipoic acid. A healthy way to prepare meats is by roasting, baking or broiling.
Green Vegetables
Green vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, collard greens, chard, peas and brussels sprouts, contain lipoic acid. Vegetables should be steamed, grilled or broiled, but never boiled in water. Boiling vegetables in water causes many of their nutrients to seep out into the water. Green vegetables also provide a rich source of folate and antioxidant vitamins which help to strengthen your body and immune system.
Rice Bran and Brewers Yeast
Other sources of lipoic acid include rice bran and brewers yeast. Brewers yeast is used in the process of making beer. It also can be grown specifically to make nutritional supplements. Brewer's yeast is a rich source of minerals -- particularly chromium, an essential trace mineral that helps the body maintain normal blood sugar levels; selenium; protein; and the B-complex vitamins, reports the University Of Maryland Medical Center.
Member Comments