Alpha Lipoic Acid Benefits

Are you getting alpha lipoic acid benefits?

This is a fatty acid found in every cell in the body. The body uses it to convert blood sugar (glucose) into the energy it needs to function.

Nutritionists call alpha lipoic acid the “universal antioxidant”, because it’s soluble in water and fat. It neutralizes free radicals in the fatty and watery parts of cells. Vitamin C and E, in contrast, are limited to water.

Alpha lipoic acid particularly fights peroxynitrite radicals, which cause atherosclerosis, lung disease, chronic inflammation, and brain disorders.

Another great thing about lipoic acid is that it synergizes other antioxidants...for example, it constantly recycles vitamin C, glutathione, conenzyme Q10, and vitamin E.

Alpha Lipoic Acid Dangers

Everyone, especially pregnant women, nursing women, people with diabetes, and people with thyroid conditions should consult their doctor before taking any supplement.

Prescription medication and over-the-counter drugs may interact negatively with supplements.

Alpha Lipoic Acid in a Supplement

Most multi-nutrient supplements include it even though a healthy body normally makes enough alpha lipoic acid on its own.

The richest dietary source of alpha lipoic acid is red meat. It's also in organ meats like liver, brewer's yeast, potatoes, broccoli, and spinach.

As mentioned above, this acid enhances other antioxidants, so you want to take a supplement that contains a range of antioxidants.