Alpha-lipoic acid is a dietary supplement that acts as an antioxidant and assists with maintaining insulin levels in the blood. Because the supplement is acidic, it has the potential to cause heartburn in some individuals. The supplement might also cause diarrhea and other gastrointestinal discomfort. If you are prone to heartburn while taking alpha-lipoic acid, taking some precautions may prevent or reduce the severity of your symptoms. Consult your physician before taking any dietary supplements.
Step 1
Take the alpha-lipoic acid with food. If you take the supplement on an empty stomach, the acid in the supplement, coupled with the acid your stomach produces to dissolve it, might cause heartburn. Taking the supplement with food will neutralize and absorb some of this acid.
Step 2
Consume an over-the-counter antacid prior to taking an alpha-lipoic acid supplement. As with the food, the antacid will neutralize the acid in your stomach and prevent heartburn. Antacids are available in pill, chewable or liquid form in the digestive aid section of the grocery or drugstore.
Step 3
Consult with your physician about using a long-term antacid. Long-term antacids reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces to combat heartburn. Prolonged use can have dangerous side effects and you should only consider using these drugs if other factors contribute to your heartburn in addition to the alpha-lipoic acid supplements.
Tips and Warnings
- If your heartburn continues despite taking medication to ease the discomfort, stop taking the supplement and get your alpha-lipoic acid from dietary sources instead. Food sources, such as red meat and brewer's yeast provide a rich source of alpha-lipoic acid without the heartburn.
Things You'll Need
- Food
- Over-the-counter antacid
- Long-term antacid
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