Alpha Lipoic Acid Products
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Lipoic Acid
Lipoic acid (also known as alpha-lipoic acid and thioctic acid) is a sulfur-containing vitamin like sub-stance that plays an important role as the necessary cofactor in two vital energy-producing reactions involved in the production of cellular energy (ATP). Lipoic acid is not considered a vitamin, but because it is an accessory nutrient, a relative deficiency can occur in certain situations. Lipoic acid is an effective antioxidant. It is unique in that it is effective against both water- and fat-soluble free radicals.
For general antioxidant support, the recommended dosage is 20 to 50 mg. In the treatment of diabetic neuropathy and liver disorders, the recommended dosage is 300 to 600 mg daily. In the treatment of HIV infection and AIDS, the recommended dosage is 150 to 200 mg three times daily.
Lipoic acid is available in tablets and capsules.
Lipoic Acid - Diabetic Neuropathy
Lipoic acid is an approved drug in Germany for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy (nerve disease). Several double-blind studies have shown that lipoic acid supplementation (300 to 600 mg daily) does improve diabetic neuropathy. Lipoic acid's primary effect in improving diabetic neuropathy is thought to be the result of its antioxidant effects. However, it has also been shown to lead to an improvement in blood sugar metabolism, improve blood flow to peripheral nerves, and actually stimulate the regeneration of nerve fibers. Its ability to improve blood sugar metabolism is a result of its effects on glucose metabolism and an ability to increase insulin sensitivity.
Lipoic Acid - HIV infection and AIDS
Several studies have shown that individuals infected with HIV and suffering from AIDS have low lipoic acid levels and a compromised antioxidant defense system. Preliminary studies have shown that lipoic acid supplementation exerts a significant beneficial effect in the blood of HIV-infected patients. Specifically, supplementation increased plasma vitamin C in nine of ten patients, total glutathione in seven of seven patients, and helper T lymphocytes and the helper/suppressor T cell ratio in six of ten patients, while an indicator of lipid peroxidation imalondialdehyde) decreased in eight of nine patients. Larger, double-blind studies are needed to support these encouraging results. In addition, in test tube studies lipoic acid has been shown to significantly inhibit the replication of HIV by reducing the activity of reverse transcriptase, the enzyme responsible for manufacturing the virus from the DNA of lymphocytes.
Lipoic Acid - Liver disorders
Lipoic acid protects the liver from free-radical damage and also helps promote detoxification reactions. Preliminary studies suggest a possible role in the treatment of hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver, but more clinical research is needed to confirm these effects.
Lipoic Acid Side Effects
Lipoic acid may affect insulin in insulin-dependent diabetics or drugs that lower blood sugar levels in non-insulin-dependent diabetics, such as glyburide (Diabeta, Micronase) and metformin (Glucophage). Consult a physician to discuss proper monitoring of blood sugar levels before taking lipoic acid.
Individuals with diabetes need to be aware that taking lipoic acid may alter insulin or drug requiremerits. Consult a physician to discuss proper monitoring of blood sugar levels before taking lipoic acid.
Alpha Lipoic Acid Manufacturers
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