Alpha lipoic acid is a fatty acid found naturally inside every cell in the body. It’s needed by the body to produce the energy for our body’s normal functions. Alpha lipoic acid helps convert the bodies glucose (blood sugar) into energy.
Lipoic acid is also an antioxidant, a substance that neutralizes potentially harmful chemicals called free radicals. What makes alpha lipoic acid unique is that it functions in water and fat, unlike the more common antioxidants vitamins C and E, and it appears to be able to recycle antioxidants such as vitamin C and glutathione after they have been used up (spent in the body). Glutathione is an important antioxidant that helps the body eliminate potentially harmful substances (free radicals). Alpha lipoic acid increases the formation (production) of glutathione.
Alpha lipoic acid is an antioxidant that is made by the body and found in foods from the diet. Antioxidants are substances that work by attacking “free radicals,” waste products created when the body turns food into energy. Free radicals cause harmful chemical reactions that can damage cells in the body, making it harder for the body to fight off infections and resulting in damage to organs and tissues.
Alpha lipoic acid is unique in several ways. Unlike other antioxidants, which work only in water (such as vitamin C) or fatty tissues (such as vitamin E), alpha lipoic acid is both fat- and water soluble making it the perfect antioxidant. That means it can work throughout the body. In addition, antioxidants are depleted as they attack free radicals, but evidence suggests alpha lipoic acid may help to regenerate these other antioxidants and make them active again (recycling process).
Considered by many to be nature’s ultimate antioxidant, alpha lipoic acid has been used for years throughout Europe as a powerful weapon against aging and disease. Its ability to attack free radicals, the cause of many health problems, has produced astonishing results.
Alpha lipoic acid is a fat soluble, sulfur containing, vitamin like antioxidant. It is not a true vitamin because it can be synthesized in the body and is not necessary in the diet. Alpha lipoic acid functions in the same manner as many B-complex vitamins. Good sources of alpha lipoic acid are yeast and liver. Other sources include spinach, broccoli, potatoes, kidney, heart, skeletal muscle, and vitamin supplements.
Alpha lipoic acid is available in capsule and tablet forms at your local or internet health food store. Make sure you look for name brands to ensure quality and purity of the product you purchase.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the FDA. Alpha lipoic acid is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional wellness care provider before changing any medicine or adding Vitamins to medicines.