What is Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Alpha-lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that is found naturally in the body. It helps to protect cells from damage and plays an important role in energy production. Alpha-lipoic acid supplements are often used as a natural treatment for diabetes and other conditions.
What are the benefits of Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Alpha-lipoic acid supplements have a range of potential health benefits. Some of the most well-established benefits include:
Treating diabetes: Alpha-lipoic acid can improve insulin sensitivity and help to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
Reducing inflammation: Alpha-lipoic acid has anti-inflammatory properties and may help to reduce the risk of some chronic diseases.
Protecting the brain: Alpha-lipoic acid may help to protect the brain from damage and improve cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
Improving skin health: Alpha-lipoic acid can help to reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity. It may also help to treat conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
What are the side effects of Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Alpha-lipoic acid is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, some people may experience side effects such as nausea, dizziness, or headache. If you experience any adverse effects, stop taking the supplement and speak to a healthcare professional.
Where can I buy Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Alpha-lipoic acid supplements are available from most health food stores and online retailers.
How do I take Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
The recommended dosage of alpha-lipoic acid depends on your age, health, and the reason you are taking the supplement. Speak to a healthcare professional before taking any supplements to ensure you are taking the correct dose.
Dosage for diabetes: The recommended dosage of alpha-lipoic acid for people with diabetes is 600-1,800 mg daily.
Dosage for Alzheimer’s disease: The recommended dosage of alpha-lipoic acid for people with Alzheimer’s disease is 300 mg twice daily.
Dosage for skin health: The recommended dosage of alpha-lipoic acid for skin health is 200-300 mg daily.
Can I take Alpha-Lipoic Acid with other supplements?
Alpha-lipoic acid can interact with some medications and supplements. Speak to a healthcare professional before taking any other supplements to ensure there are no potential interactions.
What is the best time of day to take Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
The best time of day to take alpha-lipoic acid depends on the reason you are taking the supplement. If you are taking alpha-lipoic acid for diabetes, it is typically taken with meals. If you are taking alpha-lipoic acid for Alzheimer’s disease, it is typically taken in two divided doses. Speak to a healthcare professional for advice on the best time of day to take alpha-lipoic acid for your individual needs.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid Supplements
Alpha- lipoic acid supplements are available from most health food stores and online retailers. The recommended dosage of alpha-lipoic acid depends on your age, health, and the reason you are taking the supplement. Speak to a healthcare professional before taking any supplements to ensure you are taking the correct dose.
Pharmacokinetics
Alpha-lipoic acid is a naturally occurring substance that is synthesized in small amounts by mammals. It is also found in some foods, such as spinach and broccoli. Alpha-lipoic acid supplements are typically taken in capsule or tablet form.
After oral ingestion, alpha-lipoic acid is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and distributed throughout the body. It is thought to cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in neural tissue. Alpha-lipoic acid is metabolized by the liver and excreted in the urine. The half-life of alpha-lipoic acid is thought to be 1-2 hours.
Bioavailability
Alpha-lipoic acid supplements are typically well-tolerated and have good bioavailability. However, the bioavailability of alpha-lipoic acid may be reduced when taken with food.
Safety
Alpha-lipoic acid is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, some people may experience side effects such as nausea, dizziness, or headache. If you experience any adverse effects, stop taking the supplement and speak to a healthcare professional.
Alpha-lipoic acid can interact with some medications and supplements. Speak to a healthcare professional before taking any other supplements to ensure there are no potential interactions.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding
There is not enough evidence to recommend the use of alpha-lipoic acid during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Speak to a healthcare professional before taking any supplements during pregnancy or breast-feeding.