top of page
Writer's pictureGreat Lakes Integrative Medicine

Alpha Lipoic Acid - The Mighty Antioxidant


June is National Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. GLIM’s practitioner, Maureen Milota, APRN, NP-C is a certified Bredesen Protocol Practitioner. The Bredesen Protocol is used to strengthen cognitive health and stave off mild cognitive impairment, and is also thought to be a method for reversing the effects of Alzheimer’s.


Another tool for combating memory loss is the supplement Alpha Lipoic Acid. Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is an organic compound that your body naturally produces inside the mitochondria (the powerhouse of the cell), where it helps turn nutrients into energy. ALA is a powerful antioxidant which means that it helps protect against damage to the cells in your body. As a result, ALA has become increasingly popular as a supplement due to the wide range of health benefits it offers.


Why is ALA great for you?

As a mighty antioxidant, here are some of the many health benefits of taking ALA as a supplement:


  • Battling Memory Loss: Oxidative stress naturally progresses with age and plays a part in memory loss and declining brain health. Studies with participants diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease show that ALA might slow the progression of the condition.


  • Weight Loss: ALA suppresses the activity of an enzyme called AMPK which is responsible for the feeling of hunger. ALA also increases the number of calories your body burns at rest.


  • Aid for Diabetes: ALA has been found to reduce the high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes, by promoting processes that eat up the fat that accumulates in muscle cells. It also helps keep cholesterol levels in check. Maureen is also a Certified Diabetic Educator, and GLIM can work with you on managing diabetes.


  • Countering Nerve Pain: Often, high levels of oxidative stress that arise due to chronic illnesses like diabetes, kidney failure, and HIV, put immense pressure on your nerves resulting in an uncomfortable feeling of pain and numbness termed as neuropathy. When taken in the right doses, ALA can work wonders in dealing with neuropathy.


  • Boosts Skin Health: Using ALA in the form of a topical cream has been found to fight signs of skin aging by reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and roughness. As a cream, ALA is absorbed into the skin where it uses its oxidative properties to defend your body against harmful UV radiation.


How can you incorporate ALA into your lifestyle?


ALA is found naturally in foods like red meats, broccoli, spinach, tomatoes, potatoes, and green peas. If you are taking an ALA supplement, take note that it is better absorbed on an empty stomach.


If you are taking medication for diabetes or related complications, consult your healthcare practitioner to find the best dosage for you.


Schedule a free introductory call to work with GLIM on incorporating ALA into your lifestyle! You can also purchase professional grade Alpha Lipoic Acid supplements on our Online Apothecary! .



30 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page