ALA (alpha lipoic acid) is a compound derived from octanoic acid and is naturally produced in our bodies. It is essential for aerobic metabolism and is available as a dietary supplement as an antioxidant, which help fight free radicals and is often used by bodybuilders and in weight training.
It serves several important functions in the body, such as energy productions in cells and may enhance weight loss. A healthy body can produce all the ALA it needs for these purposes.
ALA can be found in foods such as spinach, broccoli, potatoes, liver and heart. These amounts are not enough to produce any significant increase of ALA in the body. Some people use it as supplements to improve a number of health conditions, though the scientific evidence of health benefits from ALA has been inconclusive.
ALA can benefit those who suffer from diabetes, as it increases glucose uptake and reduces diabetic symptoms such as vascular damage and nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy and polyneuropathy).
Benefits
ALA can help provide the following:
Fighting free radicals and reduction of cell damage
Protecting genetic material
Slows aging
Protection against heart disease
Protection against cancer
Improved skin and reduced wrinkles
Regulates blood sugar in diabetics
Protection of liver
Can help prevent a stroke
Side effects
There haven’t been any serious adverse effects reported in clinical studies, even at high doses which is used to treat diabetics. Some mild side effects that have been reported are allergic skin reactions and hypoglycemia in diabetics.
ALA can interfere with biotin and it is therefore recommended to take additional biotin if ALA intake exceeds 100mgs per day.
Dosage
Recommended dosage of ALA is 200-400 mgs per day.
