What is Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)?
Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA), also known as thioctic acid, is a powerful organosulfur compound naturally produced in small amounts by the human body and found in plants and animals. First isolated in 1951, ALA functions as a vital mitochondrial cofactor for enzymes involved in energy metabolism, particularly in the Krebs cycle.
ALA exists in two enantiomeric forms: R-ALA, which occurs naturally in food and the human body, and S-ALA, which is synthesized chemically. Supplementation often includes both, though R-ALA shows superior bioavailability and efficacy.
Why Do We Need Alpha Lipoic Acid?
While ALA is synthesized endogenously, the small quantities produced are insufficient to meet the body’s energy and antioxidant needs—hence the importance of dietary and supplemental sources like spinach, broccoli, rice bran, red meats, and organ meats.
Key Compounds in Alpha Lipoic Acid
- Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) – the oxidized form
- Dihydrolipoic Acid (DHLA) – the reduced, active form
- R-ALA and S-ALA – enantiomeric isomers, with R-ALA being bioactive in nature.
Both ALA and DHLA exhibit potent antioxidant activity, regenerating other antioxidants like glutathione, vitamin C, and vitamin E, and scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) throughout the body.
Uses & Benefits of Alpha Lipoic Acid
🧠 Neuroprotective & Cognitive Health
ALA combats oxidative stress, a key contributor to neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s. It protects neurons from beta-amyloid toxicity, enhances acetylcholine production, and may reduce inflammation involved in neurodegeneration.
💉 Diabetes Support
ALA is widely studied for improving insulin sensitivity, reducing blood sugar levels, and relieving symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. It improves glucose uptake and reduces oxidative damage caused by hyperglycemia.
❤️ Cardiovascular Health
Through its antioxidant action, ALA reduces LDL oxidation and atherosclerotic plaque formation, thereby supporting heart and vascular health.
🔬 Anti-Inflammatory & Detoxification
ALA effectively removes heavy metals from the bloodstream and regulates inflammatory cytokines, supporting liver detoxification and immune function.
⚖️ Weight Management & Metabolic Function
In obese and overweight patients, ALA has been shown to reduce body fat, triglycerides, and leptin levels, supporting healthy metabolism when combined with diet and lifestyle changes.
💊 Clinical Support in Chronic Conditions
ALA is being explored as an adjunct in managing:
- Schizophrenia (reducing drug-induced weight gain and improving cognitive symptoms)
- Multiple Sclerosis (improving mobility and inflammation)
- Pregnancy complications (reducing sub-chorionic hematoma and inflammation)
How to Take Alpha Lipoic Acid
Due to ALA’s short half-life and low bioavailability (~30%), liquid formulations or those using amphiphilic matrices offer better absorption. It is best taken on an empty stomach, about 30 minutes before a meal.
A Final Word: Alpha Lipoic Acid as a Holistic Supplement
Referred to as the “universal antioxidant,” Alpha Lipoic Acid plays an extraordinary role in cellular energy production, detoxification, and neuroprotection. Its ability to work in both water and fat environments makes it uniquely versatile across various systems in the body—from the brain and liver to the heart and nerves.
📚 References:
- Salehi B, et al. (2019). Insights on the Use of α-Lipoic Acid for Therapeutic Purposes. Biomolecules, 9(8), 356. https://doi.org/10.3390/biom9080356
- Goralska M, et al. (ALA reduces oxidative stress markers and improves cellular resistance)
- Ziegler D, et al. (Long-term ALA treatment improves neuropathic symptoms)
- Kim J, et al. (ALA use in schizophrenia-induced weight gain)
- Huerta AE, et al. (ALA improves body weight and fat loss)