Alpha-Lipoic Acid Foods

The antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid helps turn glucose into energy. It is found in every cell, is made by the body and is both fat- and water-soluble. ALA can lower blood sugar levels, is proposed as a treatment for liver disease and helps protect the brain and nerve tissue, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The body usually makes enough ALA to suit a person's needs, but ALA also can be gained via certain foods.

Organ Meat

Organ meats are a good source of ALA. These include brain, liver, kidney, heart, sweetbreads, tripe and tongue. Organ meats are also high in other nutrients. Liver is a strong source of iron, for example. These should be eaten sparingly, however, according to "The American Dietetic Association Complete Food and Nutrition Guide" by Roberta Larson Duyff. That's because they are higher in cholesterol than other meats, and often have higher fat content as well.

Red Meat

Red meat contains ALA, according to the UMMC. Red meat also is a good protein source and contains B vitamins, zinc, selenium and iron, according to Nutritiondata.com. Pork also has phosphorous, magnesium and potassium, while grass-fed beef and lamb contain conjugated linoleic acid. CLA can affect body composition by increasing lean muscle mass while decreasing fat, according to nationally known nutritionist Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., author of "Fat Flush Foods."

Brewer's Yeast

A person can get ALA by consuming brewer's yeast. Brewer's yeast is a source of B vitamins, selenium and chromium as well, according to the UMMC. This food may be useful for helping to control blood sugar levels thanks to its chromium, improving cholesterol and reducing fat, though more research is needed. Brewer's yeast can be found as a powder, as flakes and in liquid form.