Alpha-lipoic acid is a sulfur-containing fatty acid, which is naturally produced by the liver and other tissues in our body. It is also absorbed intact from some foods introduced with the diet and accumulates in some tissues (liver, heart, muscle, brain and nerves and others).
Alpha lipoic acid is a molecule similar to vitamins that seems to act as an antioxidant, therefore its use would be of great use in case of brain damage or trauma and some liver pathologies. It is often recommended taking it to prevent damage to cells, and restore adequate levels of vitamins, especially E and C, as well as to improve the functionality of neurons in case of diabetes.
What Is Alpha Lipoic Acid Used For
Alpha-lipoic acid (often abbreviated as ALA), is a fatty acid with a powerful antioxidant action that helps combat oxidative stress caused by free radicals (responsible for aging and cell damage) both outside and outside. Inside the nerve cell. It therefore represents a valuable molecule for the diabetic person, as it promotes the protection of the nervous system and helps to combat diabetic neuropathy.
ALA fights free radicals in every part of the neuron (but also in other cells) and is the only antioxidant that manages to do so.
Alpha-lipoic acid also protects against oxidation of LDL-cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) by acting as a factor in preventing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Some studies have documented the ability of ALA to chelate metals or to capture and requisition above all copper and iron which in some cells would lead to the formation of strongly oxidizing substances.
Other studies have highlighted the ability of alpha-lipoic acid to improve “glucose tolerance”, thus promoting better functioning of the sugar metabolism in diabetic and / or obese people. This activity also makes it useful in improving performance sports (optimizing the use of energy) area where it is also important as a “scavenger” of free radicals produced during high intensity muscle activity.
Alpha-lipoic acid is considered a memory-enhancer, or a substance capable of improving memory in old age and counteracting aging of the brain thanks to its powerful antioxidant action.
In general, taking oral lipoic acid supplements is considered safe; however, there is no lack of possible adverse effects, in particular the appearance of skin rashes. It is also important to talk to your doctor about the risks associated with taking alpha lipoic acid in the event of a deficiency of vitamin B1 (thiamine), such as that which can be associated with high alcohol consumption.
In nature, the richest sources of alpha-lipoic acid are animal tissues with high metabolic activity (red meat, heart, liver, kidney) that are not often consumed. Among the vegetable sources there are, in descending order: spinach, broccoli, tomatoes, peas, Brussels sprouts, rice.
Alpha-lipoic acid can also be obtained from the daily intake of a food supplement that ensures a fixed daily dosage of fatty acid. For advice appropriate to your needs it is useful to ask your doctor or pharmacist.
How Much Alpha Lipoic Acid Should You Take A Day
Its dosage can vary according to the cases, generally we recommend a dosage ranging from 300 mg to 600 mg per day for a period of at least three weeks; in particular, 600 mg per day to be taken when the symptoms are acute, while 300 mg per day is the right dose for its maintenance.
How long does it take for alpha lipoic acid to work?
In general, alpha-lipoic acid begins its effectiveness and acts on the body from the second to the third week of intake, which is why the treatment must be done precisely for three consecutive weeks … in fact some studies carried out on humans, most of the patients noticed a noticeable decrease in pain and very significant improvements from the 21st day of treatment.
Is alpha lipoic acid an anti-inflammatory?
Alpha-lipoic acid is also an excellent anti-inflammatory. Several studies show that it reduces insulin resistance-related inflammation, cancer, liver disease, heart disease and other ailments. In addition, alpha-lipoic acid can help reduce blood levels of several inflammatory markers, including IL- 6 and ICAM-1.
Does alpha lipoic acid help you sleep?
Since alpha-lipoic acid is capable of inhibiting the inflammations and pains that ensue, and acting on cells and neurons with its use, it seems somewhat possible to reconcile our sleep. As already said, it is not all immediate, but we talk about effects benefits from the second week onwards, but it depends on cases, problems and subjects.
