Alpha Lipoic Acid, also known as lipoic acid, thiotic acid and frequently shortened to ALA, is an essential fatty acid found naturally within the cells of the body. It is a bodily requirement for producing the energy everybody needs for basic, normal, body functions such as breathing and circulation. ALA actually converts glucose into energy naturally within the body and is also an antioxidant that, unlike many other antioxidants, functions in both water and fat – it is water and fat soluble.

ALA is naturally produced by the body and can be increased by eating a diet rich in spinach, broccoli, peas, brussel sprouts, rice bran, meat and brewer’s yeast. There are also many supplemental capsule forms at health food stores and various websites for those who would rather know the additional intake daily without gauging it based on food intake.
ALA Supplementation is considered, by many, to be beneficial in helping to prevent Peripheral Neuropathy, improving brain functions, and slowing the aging process as well as reducing a variety of chronic illnesses related to aging. ALA is also a suggested preventative measure and or treatment for cataracts, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, burning mouth syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease and stroke, though there are still studies ongoing to confirm these benefits.

The antioxidant properties of ALA is what causes many to consider it to be very beneficial in preventing aging issues. Especially since it has the unique ability to work in both fatty and water tissues which theoretically enables it to enter all parts of brain and nerve cells to provide protection from free radicals damage. Other apparent benefits of Alpha Lipoic Acid is that it actually helps the body recycle other antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E and it increases glutathione which helps to detoxify the body. 

Since ALA affects the body’s glucose conversion to energy it has the ability to adjust blood sugar levels and help reduce symptoms in those who suffer from diabetes. It helps control cravings since cravings are frequently caused by changing blood sugar levels that trigger the body to ask for more sugar to be released. Thus, a craving for sugar producing foods occurs while those with hypoglycemia may find that large doses of ALA may cause negative effects. Many people who are on a strict intake diet note that ALA supplementation helps them avoid their sweet tooth and stick to their dietary regimen.

As with any supplement, too much of a good thing can produce bad results and each and every body has a different level of need and tolerance. Therefore, various medical conditions and medications will react differently to any supplement. There are very few known or reported negative side effects from taking ALA as a supplement. However, some people have experienced rashes, tingling of the skin, headaches, and interference with the absorption of biotin and some vitamins when taken in large doses.

The three primary benefits of taking Alpha Lipoic Acid appear to be the antioxidant benefit that reduces free radicals thus promoting overall well being; the detoxification of the body via production of glutathione and the regulation of glucose. This creates a steady level of blood sugar and energy, while helping avoid cravings and building muscle glycogen which is why many athletes use ALA supplements.