Alpha Lipoic Acid & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

More than just feeling a little tired, chronic fatigue syndrome is a real and serious medical condition, although it is not easily diagnosed. Since the presentation of the condition can vary among individuals, treatment may differ depending on symptoms. Alpha-lipoic acid is a naturally occurring substance that can be taken as a supplement, and may be helpful for some individuals with chronic fatigue. Before using alpha-lipoic acid, talk with your doctor about whether this is safe for you to consume.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

The human body naturally makes the antioxidant known as alpha-lipoic acid, and it can be found in every cell. This substance helps convert glucose into energy. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are waste products that can also damage organs. Alpha-lipoic acid is also known as ALA, not to be confused with alpha-linolenic acid, which is known by the same abbreviation. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ALA is both water and fat-soluble, which means it can work throughout the body and can be stored in bodily tissues. Though the body makes ALA, it can also be found in red meat, organ meat and yeast.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, describes chronic fatigue syndrome as a disorder that is marked by intense fatigue that does not get better with bed rest and gets worse with mental or physical exertion. Chronic fatigue syndrome, also known as CFS, may include weakness, muscle pain and problems with concentration and insomnia, with symptoms lasting at least six months, states the CDC. There are no established causes, and no tests that can definitively diagnose CFS. Other illnesses need to be ruled out before a diagnosis of CFS can be made. If you think you have CFS, see your doctor for an examination and diagnostic workup.

Effect of ALA on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Although exact causes of CFS have not been established, oxidative stress is thought to play a role in the development of the disease, according to a 2001 article in the "Alternative Medicine Review." ALA helps mitigate oxidative stress and the damage to cells, which may help ameliorate symptoms of CFS. More research needs to be done on CFS and how ALA can help with its symptoms; until definitive findings are made, talk with your doctor about your symptoms and whether ALA can help you.

Considerations

Although the body naturally makes ALA, it still has the potential to interact with medications when taken as a supplement. Individuals taking insulin or other medications for high blood sugar should ask a doctor before using ALA, as it can interfere with these medications and cause hypoglycemia. ALA can lower thyroid hormone, so those on thyroid medications should consult their physicians to see if ALA is safe to use. Even if you do not take these medications, talk with your doctor about reasons for using ALA supplements and whether they are safe and appropriate for your situation. If you have chronic fatigue syndrome, do not use ALA supplements as a substitute for getting medical care. See a doctor for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Alpha Lipoic Acid & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome