Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA, thioctic acid) is a naturally occurring
vitamin-like nutrient that has been intensely investigated as a therapeutic
agent for a variety of conditions involving the body’s nervous, cardiovascular,
immune, and detoxification systems. It exists as two enantiomers or
stereoisomers: R-(+)-lipoic acid (RLA) and S-(-)-lipoic acid (SLA). It is
produced in small amounts in the liver and other body tissues, where it is
needed by enzymes to catalyze numerous essential chemical reactions in the body.
For instance, ALA is essential inside the mitochondria of cells, where it
is needed to metabolize glucose and direct calories into energy production.
ALA is considered to be a multimodal supplement because, aside from
its enzymatic role in energy production, it acts by multiple mechanisms and
displays diverse pharmacologic and antioxidant properties. Recently discovered
is ALA’s ability to switch the regulation of several genes linked to cell
survival, inflammation and oxidative stress. So in addition to its enzymatic
role, ALA is a powerful antioxidant and performs a number of other vital
functions related to its ability to modify the expression of various genes.
ALA is therefore not so much a direct benefit to cells, but rather an
indirect aid that "kick starts" declining function in cells, helping them
recover the functions that came more easily and naturally in the young.
Researchers at Oregon State University’s Linus Pauling Institute for
Micronutrient research have found that our body’s natural lipoic acid
levels decline markedly with age, but can be replenished through dietary
supplementation. They describe ALA as an "age-essential" micronutrient
and have shown that, when fed to rats, it markedly improves mitochondrial
function and ameliorates many signs of aging (Hagen et al. 2002; Suh et al.
2004; University 2007). ALA is also being extensively studied in humans by
researchers across the globe, and so far has been found to exhibit a number of
both confirmed and potential benefits for health and longevity.
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Capsule
Servings per Container: 60
Amount Per Serving
Alpha Lipoic Acid 600 Milligrams
Other Ingredients:
Modified cellulose (vegetarian capsule), magnesium silicate, silicon dioxide,
rice powder.
Directions:
Adults: Take 1 or 2 capsules daily, or as recommended by a nutritionally
informed physician. Take with or without food.
