No one doubts the health benefits of broccoli and spinach, but not everyone knows what they are due to. Of course, the two vegetables are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals that are important for the normal functioning of the body, but this applies to hundreds of other gifts of nature. In this case, however, it is a group of other very important phytochemicals for the body, called antioxidants, among which alpha-lipoic acid stands out.
What is alpha-lipoic acid?
Alpha-lipoic acid is an organosulfur compound that is produced by some plants and animals. It can also be synthesized by the human body, specifically in the mitochondria, but in limited quantities. Alpha-lipoic acid is present in every cell in our body and plays an important role in energy metabolism, specifically in the processing of glucose from food.
However, another more important function is that of a powerful antioxidant that counteracts the harmful effects of free radicals. In cells, it is processed into dihydrolipoic acid, which ensures the normal course of a number of cellular reactions related to metabolic processes and neuronal signaling.
Like other antioxidants, alpha-lipoic acid can slow down the damage caused by reactive oxygen species to cells, which are the basis of various diseases and the aging process. It also contributes to the restoration of levels of certain vitamins such as E and C in the body and acts as a cofactor for a number of important mitochondrial enzymes.
Alpha-lipoic acid has one important property that makes it unique among antioxidants – it is both water-soluble and fat-soluble. Most others are only water-soluble (such as the B vitamins and vitamin C) or only fat-soluble (vitamin E). This means that it is absorbed properly regardless of the foods it is taken with and that it can be used in almost all parts of the body.
Health effects of alpha-lipoic acid
→ Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects – By counteracting oxidative stress and inflammatory processes, alpha-lipoic acid limits the damage they cause to blood vessels, brain, neurons and a number of organs such as the heart and liver. A lack of antioxidants in the body accelerates the aging process, weakens immune function and can lead to a decrease in muscle mass, cardiovascular problems and cognitive difficulties. In addition, alpha-lipoic acid acts as a chelator of heavy metals and improves the absorption of another very important antioxidant called glutathione.
→ Improves glucose metabolism – Alpha-lipoic acid protects cells involved in hormone production, thus increasing the body’s defenses against type 2 diabetes. It has been found to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome – a combination of conditions such as high blood pressure, cholesterol and weight. Clinical trials show that taking alpha-lipoic acid effectively supports the treatment of diabetic neuropathy, which affects about 50% of diabetics.
→ Supports the action of glutathione – Due to its key role in immunity, cellular health and the prevention of a number of diseases, according to many experts, glutathione ranks among the first in terms of effectiveness among antioxidants. Scientific research shows that taking alpha-lipoic acid significantly improves glutathione’s ability to regulate the body’s immune response, which contributes to counteracting conditions such as type 2 diabetes and even AIDS. Due to this, it is often used in the therapies of patients with immunodeficiency and serious viral diseases.
Alpha-lipoic acid also improves the prevention of eye diseases such as vision loss, macular degeneration, retinal damage, cataracts and glaucoma, helps maintain cognitive function and memory as we age, supports energy metabolism and the maintenance of a healthy body weight.
Method of administration:
1 capsule daily.
