Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant, a type of substance that eases inflammation in the body and helps to protect cells from damage. It also appears to replenish stores of other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E. Food sources include beef, organ meats and yeast, though your body makes enough on its own and does not require you to obtain adequate stores through diet. In the presence of certain health problems, supplementing with alpha-lipoic acid might offer some benefits, but you should check with your doctor for guidance on supplementation.
Diabetes
Every cell of your body contains alpha-lipoic acid, and it plays a role in converting the blood sugar glucose into your body's primary source of energy. Because of this role, it might help to manage diabetes. According to the Oregon State University Linus Pauling Institute, research indicates that alpha-lipoic acid supplementation might improve your cells' uptake of glucose, leaving less circulating in the blood. One study had patients take 600, 1,200 or 1,800 mg daily for four weeks; no significant differences existed between the groups in terms of degree of blood sugar control. This suggests that 600 mg daily might be sufficient to exert the maximum therapeutic effect.
Alpha-lipoic acid's effects on nerve health might help to ease the pain of diabetic neuropathy -- nerve damage in the extremities that results from blood vessels damaged by high levels of sugar in the blood. Intravenous treatments appear to offer more significant benefit in a shorter amount of time, though studies looking at the effects of oral supplementation over a longer period also showed significant improvements in nerve health. Intravenous alpha-lipoic acid in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy is widely used in Europe, says the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC.
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Alpha-lipoic acid passes readily into the brain and offers protection for this vital organ and the nerve tissue that helps to coordinate your body's functions. Its strong antioxidant properties might head off the free-radical damage that damages brain tissue; this holds promise for treating strokes and diseases such as Alzheimer's. According to the both OSU and the UMMC, animal studies have produced positive results in the use of alpha-lipoic acid for improving memory and for reducing brain damage after a stroke. OSU notes another study where Alzheimer's patients using this supplement along with their standard medication stabilized their cognitive decline. This protective action on the brain and supporting tissues might also help other neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Huntington's disease.
Reducing Toxicity
Your body uses metals like copper and iron for many important functions. Excess levels of metals however, can trigger health problems and speed the progression of already existing ones. According to Drugs.com, research has shown alpha-lipoic acid can help to reduce heavy metal toxicity as well as protect the liver and other parts of the body from the toxic effects of drugs such as acetaminophen and those used to treat cancer and immune-system disorders.
Consideratios for Usage
Use alpha-lipoic acid with caution if you take medications to lower blood sugar or if you take medications for thyroid disorders. Safe use pregnant or breastfeeding women has not been established and you should avoid this supplement in either case. No serious side effects have been reported and the most common ones include skin problems like rash, hives and itching. The UMMC recommends taking 20 to 50 mg daily for general antioxidant support. In clinical testing for various health conditions, doses up to 1,800 mg were used for therapeutic effect; consult with your doctor for a suggested dose to treat a specific health condition.
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