Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Scientists discovered the importance of alpha-lipoic acid in the 1950s, and recognized it as an antioxidant in 1988. The body needs alpha-lipoic acid to produce energy. It plays a crucial role in the energy-producing structures in cells. The body actually makes enough alpha-lipoic acid for this basic function. Alpha-lipoic acid acts as an antioxidant, however, only when there is an excess of it and it is in the "free" state in the cells. There is little free alpha-lipoic acid circulating in your body, unless you consume supplements or get it injected. Alpha-lipoic acid is a versatile antioxidant—it helps deactivate an unusually wide array of cell-damaging free radicals in many bodily systems.

Claims, purported benefits: Alpha-lipoic acid is said to prevent or treat many age-related diseases, from heart disease, and stroke to diabetes and Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as declines in energy, muscle strength, brain function, and immunity. Alpha-lipoic acid is also being studied for HIV disease and multiple sclerosis.

Bottom line: Though evidence has been accumulating, research on alpha-lipoic acid is still in its early stages. This potent antioxidant may some day be seen as an important supplement. Not enough is known now to recommend alpha-lipoic acid. No one knows what dose should be used for what ailment. If you have diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s, or Alzheimer’s and decide to take it, tell your doctor. Though alpha-lipoic acid appears to be safe, the long-term effects of large doses are unknown. If alpha-lipoic acid is as powerful as it seems, there may be a danger in too much of a good thing.