Alpha-Lipoic Acid
The master recycler. Alpha-lipoic acid is unique among antioxidants - it works in both water and fat environments, crosses the blood-brain barrier, and regenerates other antioxidants including glutathione, vitamin C, vitamin E, and CoQ10.
What Alpha-Lipoic Acid Does
Antioxidant Recycling
Regenerates glutathione, vitamin C, vitamin E, and CoQ10 after they've neutralized free radicals.
Direct Antioxidant
Scavenges reactive oxygen species directly. Works in both aqueous and lipid environments.
Mitochondrial Cofactor
Essential cofactor for pyruvate dehydrogenase and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase in energy production.
Blood Sugar Regulation
Improves insulin sensitivity by enhancing glucose uptake into cells. Used clinically for diabetic neuropathy.
Metal Chelation
Binds heavy metals like mercury, arsenic, and cadmium, aiding their excretion.
Nerve Protection
Supports nerve health and regeneration. Primary use in Europe is for diabetic neuropathy.
R-ALA vs S-ALA
R-Alpha Lipoic Acid
- The natural form made by your body
- More bioavailable and bioactive
- The form that acts as mitochondrial cofactor
- More expensive, less stable
- Na-R-ALA is a stabilized form
S-Alpha Lipoic Acid
- Synthetic mirror image (not natural)
- Less bioactive than R-form
- May interfere with R-ALA absorption
- Standard supplements contain 50/50 mix
- Still has some antioxidant activity
Blood Sugar & Insulin Benefits
ALA is one of the most researched natural compounds for blood sugar support:
Insulin Sensitivity
Enhances insulin signaling pathways, helping cells take up glucose more efficiently.
GLUT4 Translocation
Increases movement of glucose transporters to cell surface, similar to exercise effects.
Diabetic Neuropathy
600mg IV ALA is standard treatment in Germany. Oral forms also show benefit at 600-1800mg.
Dosing Considerations
Typical Doses
- • General antioxidant: 100-300mg daily
- • Blood sugar support: 300-600mg daily
- • Neuropathy (clinical): 600-1800mg daily
- • R-ALA: Use half the dose of regular ALA
Important Notes
- • Take on empty stomach for best absorption
- • Can lower blood sugar - monitor if diabetic
- • May deplete biotin with long-term high-dose use
- • Start low if sensitive to sulfur compounds
Important Cautions
Hypoglycemia Risk
Can lower blood sugar significantly. Diabetics on medication need to monitor closely and adjust doses.
Biotin Depletion
High doses (1200mg+) long-term may compete with biotin absorption. Consider biotin supplementation.
Thiamine Status
ALA may increase thiamine demand. Ensure adequate B1 intake, especially if drinking alcohol.
Mercury Mobilization
Can redistribute mercury if used improperly. Follow careful protocols if chelating heavy metals.