Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring compound with antioxidant properties, and its use to support or treat free radical damage is primarily justified by scientific evidence. ALA functions both as a direct antioxidant—neutralizing free radicals—and as a cofactor for mitochondrial enzyme complexes, which help reduce oxidative stress. In vitro and animal studies demonstrate that ALA can regenerate other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, and increase intracellular glutathione levels, further enhancing the body's defense against oxidative damage.

Clinical trials evaluating ALA in humans have focused on conditions characterized by increased oxidative stress, such as diabetic neuropathy, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases. Some studies report improvements in oxidative stress biomarkers and clinical symptoms when ALA is administered, although results are sometimes inconsistent, and large-scale, long-term human studies are limited. A 2012 meta-analysis published in Diabetes Care found that intravenous ALA improved symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, with proposed mechanisms including reduction of oxidative stress.

While ALA is not universally recognized as a primary therapy for free radical damage in all clinical guidelines, the available evidence supports its role as an adjunctive antioxidant therapy. Its dual solubility (working in both aqueous and lipid environments) and ability to regenerate other antioxidants make it a unique and promising agent in the management of oxidative stress. However, more rigorous studies are needed to establish standardized dosing, long-term safety, and efficacy across broader populations.

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Other health conditions supported by alpha lipoic acid

Products containing alpha lipoic acid

Nature's Sunshine Alpha Lipoic Acid
Nature's Sunshine Brain Protex (With Huperzine A)
Nature's Sunshine Cellular Energy
Nature's Sunshine Heavy Metal Detox
Nature's Sunshine Super Antioxidant
Nature's Sunshine VitaWave