Definition:

• Lipoic acid (often called α-lipoic acid), also known as thioctic acid, is a naturally occurring compound that is also synthesized by humans.
• Endogenously synthesized lipoic acid is bound to protein and functions as a cofactor for several important mitochondrial multienzyme complexes.
• Supplementation with lipoic acid transiently increases plasma and cellular concentrations of unbound lipoic acid.
• Lipoic acid is a direct antioxidant, although any increase in radical scavenging activity in vivo is likely transient. Lipoic acid may also trigger antioxidant defense, enhance cellular glucose uptake, and modulate the activity of various cell-signaling molecules and transcription factors.
• Some evidence from small randomized controlled studies suggests that high-dose lipoic acid may improve measures of glucose utilization in subjects with metabolic disorders.
• Available evidence suggests that treatment with intravenous or oral lipoic acid may help reduce symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
• Lipoic acid was found to slow disease progression when administered to a mouse model of multiple sclerosis.
• Current evidence is too limited to suggest whether lipoic acid supplementation could benefit patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Supplementation with lipoic acid may show some benefits in terms of weight control for individuals with high body mass index.

Food sources of ALA include:

• Beets
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Peas
• Potatoes
• Red meat, especially organ meats like liver
• Rice bran
• Spinach
• Tomatoes
• Yams
• Yeast, such as brewer’s yeast

Dosage:

• There are no official alpha-lipoic acid dosage recommendations. Diabetic nerve pain has been treated with 600-1,800 milligrams a day. Daily doses from 200 to 2,400 milligrams are considered safe, but there’s no benefit to extra-high doses.
• Studies show that your body absorbs about 30%-40% of the oral dose of an ALA supplement. You may absorb it better if you take it on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before a meal.
• NAR-Alpha-lipoic acid: 900-1200 mg/day 2 hours before bedtime (e.g., by immunovits) may help in glucose control.