Indications
Possible effectiveness
- Relief of symptoms of diabetic neuropathy
Effectiveness uncertain
- Relief of symptoms of burning mouth syndrome
Dosage
Diabetes complications:
- Taking 100-200 mg of ALA 3 times a day may reduce the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, according to clinical studies.
Description of alpha lipoic acid
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a sulphuric acid found in every cell in the body.
It plays a key role in producing the energy the body needs to function properly.
The body produces small amounts of ALA naturally.
Alpha lipoic acid comes in two forms.
- The R-form, which is produced naturally by the body
- The S form is produced artificially and is considered to be less active.
Endowed with significant antioxidant power, ALA has the advantage of being both water and fat soluble, allowing it to neutralise different types of free radicals as it can act in both areas.
This is why it is sometimes referred to as a universal antioxidant.
ALA also has the ability to partially recycle other antioxidants, including vitamin E, vitamin C and glutathione, thereby increasing their shelf life and effectiveness.
It also has the ability to bind toxic metals such as arsenic, cadmium and mercury.
A healthy body produces sufficient amounts of ALA.
However, ALA levels appear to be reduced in people with diabetes, cirrhosis of the liver or heart disease.
Food sources
Organ meats, especially liver, some green vegetables (spinach, broccoli) and yeast contain alpha lipoic acid.
However, to achieve a therapeutic effect, ALA supplements must be taken.
Precautions with alpha lipoic acid
Precautions
Because alpha lipoic acid may reduce insulin resistance and blood glucose levels, you must monitor your blood glucose levels carefully and notify your doctor so that he or she can adjust the dosage of conventional hypoglycaemic agents if necessary.
The safety of ALA in children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people with liver or kidney disease has not been established.
It is recommended that people taking ALA monitor their iron levels, as ALA can eliminate iron (chelating effect).
Contraindications
No contraindications known at present.
Adverse effects
Alpha lipoic acid causes few adverse effects, even in the long term, and they are mild.
Doses above 600 mg per day may cause headaches, rashes, nausea and vomiting.
Alpha Lipoic Acid Interactions
With plants or dietary supplements: no known interactions.
With medicines: Allow two hours between taking antacids and ALA due to the chelating effect of the latter.