Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an organic compound that acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body. Though produced naturally in the body, and found in a variety of foods, supplementation with ALA suggests benefits in the areas of weight loss, diabetes, and brain health.
ALA is made inside the mitochondrion — also known as the powerhouse of cells — where it helps enzymes turn nutrients into energy. Alpha-lipoic acid is both water- and fat-soluble, which allows it to work in every cell or tissue in the body. Meanwhile, most other antioxidants are either water- or fat-soluble.
For instance, vitamin C is only water-soluble, while vitamin E is only fat-soluble.
The antioxidant properties of alpha-lipoic acid have been linked to several benefits, including lower blood sugar levels, reduced inflammation, slowed skin ageing, and improved nerve function.
Humans only produce alpha-lipoic acid in small amounts. That’s why many turn to certain foods or supplements to optimise their intake.
Animal products like red meat and organ meats are great sources of alpha-lipoic acid, but plant foods like broccoli, tomatoes, spinach, and Brussels sprouts also contain it.
That said, supplements can pack up to 1,000 times more alpha-lipoic acid than food sources.
Support areas also include:
May slow memory loss
Memory loss is a common concern among older adults. It’s believed that damage from oxidative stress plays a critical role in memory loss.
Because alpha-lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant, studies have examined its ability to slow the progression of disorders characterized by memory loss, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Both human and lab studies suggest that alpha-lipoic acid slows the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by neutralizing free radicals and suppressing inflammation.
alpha-lipoic acid supplements can be taken in alpha-lipoic acid capsules or alpha-lipoic acid tablets and purchased online. Simply Nootropcis Elevate includes a daily active of 200mg.
See research here.
