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What is Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)?

RS-Alpha Lipoic Acid, sometimes referred to as Alpha Lipoic Acid, ALA, or Thioctic Acid, is a powerful antioxidant found in meat and many fresh vegetables such as spinach and other green leafy vegetables. ALA is often referred to as the metabolic antioxidant. It is an effective liver cleanser and is also recognized for its ability to balance blood sugar levels. After ingestion, ALA readily enters blood circulation and freely crosses the blood brain barrier because unlike other antioxidants, ALA is both water and fat soluble, enabling it to work throughout the body and it’s also the main reason why it's found in varying concentrations in all your muscles and internal organs. ALA works together with antioxidant supplements like Vitamin C and Vitamin E to fight and prevent cell damage, and to help rid the body of harmful substances. Aside from being an antioxidant, ALA assists B vitamins in producing energy from proteins, carbohydrates and fats. ALA also works as a support system to get and maintain a healthy body, and can help the body convert glucose to energy, which leads to weight loss. Evidence from research suggests ALA may be beneficial in addressing a number of debilitating disorders.

In addition to being an integral part of the body's antioxidant network, ALA is the only antioxidant that has been demonstrated to increase glutathione production which can help general liver detoxification functions. Glutathione, aside from being the body's main water-soluble antioxidant and major detoxification agent, is also absolutely essential for the functioning of the immune system. The main issue for those who want to keep healthy and optimal glutathione levels is that taking glutathione as a standalone supplement does not boost cellular glutathione levels, since glutathione breaks down in the digestive tract before it reaches the cells. Therefore, the discovery that alpha lipoic acid can effectively boost glutathione levels has serious implications in the prevention and treatment of various diseases.

Alpha lipoic acid also helps break down sugars so that energy can be produced from them through cellular respiration. In addition, recent research has discovered that alpha lipoic acid plays a critical role in antioxidant defense. It is an extraordinarily broad spectrum, ALA as an antioxidant is able to quench a wide range of free radicals in both aqueous (water) and lipid (fat) domains. Moreover, it has the remarkable ability to recycle several other important antioxidants including vitamins C and E, glutathione, coenzyme Q10, as well as itself. Owing to these remarkable properties, alpha lipoic acid has been dubbed the universal antioxidant. For 20 years, ALA supplements have been used to treat HIV, sciatica, cancer, liver problems, hepatitis, strokes, vascular disease, diabetes, cataracts, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, burning mouth syndrome and Alzheimer's. Some doctors even believe ALA can even help slow down the aging process. Due to the fact that we produce less ALA as we age, some researchers believe that taking a supplement may help slow the aging process. ALA, combined with Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR), has been touted as an anti-aging and vitality supplement.

What is Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) used for and who uses it?

ALA is a fatty acid both manufactured by the body and taken from the foods you eat. When it binds to certain proteins, ALA plays an important role in the Krebs cycle, the body's main process for burning carbohydrates into energy. The human body typically produces enough ALA for its role in creating energy. But when there's an excess in your system, ALA does not bind to protein and acts as an antioxidant. When in this free form, ALA neutralizes a wide variety of free radicals circulating through your body. It may also help regenerate or replenish other antioxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin E to assist in this fight against free radicals.

Many professionals in health practice highly recommend ALA for the treatment and prevention of diseases developed with age, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. ALA may have synergistic effects on some medications so if have diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson's disease, or Alzheimer's disease you should talk to your doctor or health practice professional before taking ALA.

As an antioxidant, ALA helps strengthen the immune system by fighting damaging free radicals. ALA acts to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels, which can help lead to improved wellness. ALA works for bodybuilders and other strength athletes because ALA acts as a metabolic antioxidant supplement and helps the body fight free radicals that slow muscle recovery. ALA supplements have also been known to support cell strength after an intense training session. ALA also enhances the delivery of carbohydrates, creatine and other important nutrients, all vital to size, stamina, and strength.

How pure is your Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)?

This pharmaceutical grade Alpha Lipoic Acid Powder (more commonly referred to as ALA) is assayed by the manufacturer as 99.52% pure product (normal range 99.0 to 101.0%). You will receive a double sealed labeled bulk polyethylene bag containing this bright yellow crystalline powder product. It contains no fillers, taste additives, or anti-caking agents. The remaining .48% by weight are inactive byproducts of the extraction.

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) and Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)

Acetyl L-Carnitine and Alpha Lipoic Acid work synergistically to enhance the benefits of each other in respect to cognitive function, memory and mental acuity. Both compounds display many impressive properties, and have many synergistic effects when combined. The ALA and ALCAR combination has significant anti-aging and cognition improving properties and can also be effectively used for fat loss and to increase athletic performance. Both of these supplements are good nootropics and you can see them blended together in a lot of retail products because this is the easiest way to enjoy the benefits of these supplements.

ALCAR is the acetylated version of L-carnitine, an important amino acid that improves mitochondrial function and plays a role in fatty acid oxidation. ALA is a naturally occuring antioxidant enzyme that is also an important mitochondrial component. ALA may synergize with ALCAR and further increase exercise performance in two ways. First, it may increase glucose transport to muscle, particularly because exercise is associated with a high degree of oxidative stress. Secondly, ALA and ALCAR may synergize to increase fatty acid utilization and cellular energy production.

Since ALA as a powder has an unpleasant chemical burning taste, we suggest using capsules. If you check the table above you’ll see that we have a blended product also, our ALCAR/ALA capsules with 425mg ALCAR and 175mg ALA. We only offer this blended product only capsules, and you’ll see them listed there under both the ALCAR and the ALA categories.

Health Benefits and Medical applications of Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)

Early animal studies suggest ALA may help in treating Alzheimer's and other diseases that affect the nervous system. Recent studies have shown that a combination of antioxidants (including ALA) has helped cancer patients get their appetite and desired weight back. Researchers are studying ALA as a possible therapy for reducing the side effects of radiation and chemotherapy, and to prevent nerve damage that may result from some chemotherapy drugs.

Another benefit of ALA is in the treatment of diabetes. Although more research is needed to determine whether ALA supplements provide substantial benefits for type 2 diabetes and its complications, numerous studies have found that ALA has a positive effect on insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism and diabetic neuropathy. ALA supplements can also minimize the buildup of plaque within the arteries, thus reducing heart damage. Another found it beneficial in treating cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy -- a condition characterized by an irregular heartbeat that's common in diabetics. There are also reports that ALA can have health benefits pertaining to cataracts, seizures, kidney damage and liver disease.

In a clinical trial, diabetic patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy (the leading cause of lower limb amputation, it’s a condition characterized by pain and numbness in the hands and feet that occurs in patients with diabetes, etc), who were under 200 mg of ALA intravenously for 21 days reported a reduction in pain. A larger study of diabetics with peripheral neuropathy who were given 600 mg of ALA a day for three weeks, followed by 12 weeks of oral supplements, also experienced relief. These and other studies have shown ALA may be helpful in treating nerve damage in diabetics and in cancer patients.

What is the daily suggested dose of Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)?

Nutritionists suggest between 50 mg and 100 (depending upon individual needs) per dose taken two to three times per day is enough for ALA protection. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for ALA here. Since red meat is probably the richest source of naturally-occurring Alpha Lipoic Acid, dietary supplementation of ALA may be especially important for vegetarians and those cutting down on red meat consumption.

It is recommended that ALA supplements be taken on an empty stomach. As always, if you have concerns or questions, consult a physician or a health care professional before taking any supplements. Before taking any kind of medicine, check with your doctor to ensure that the supplement you want to take is right for you. You may be allergic or you may have a sensitive stomach which may raise the need for special instruction as far as dosage goes.

Precautions and Potential side effects of Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)

No side effects to alpha lipoic acid have been documented, and RS-Alpha Lipoic Acid is believed to have few if any side effects when taken in the commonly recommended dose. Alpha lipoic acid may cause nausea and stomach upset, however, or an allergic skin rash in some people if taken in doses much higher than what is recommended. Alpha-lipoic acid may change blood sugar levels, as well, so diabetics and anyone with pre-existing medical conditions should exercise caution and get consultation before taking ALA.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Taste, solubility, and suggested preparation of Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)

Alpha Lipoic Acid serves as a coenzyme in the energy production process in the cells which can provide quick bursts of energy. Alpha Lipoic Acid is unique in that it is both water and fat soluble which allows it to enter all parts of the cell to neutralize free radicals. ALA contributes to invigorating mental and physical energy and a reduction in muscle fatigue. Because it neutralizes free radicals in both the fatty and watery regions of cells, ALA has been referred to as the "Universal" antioxidant, in contrast to vitamin C (which is solely water soluble) and vitamin E (which is solely fat soluble). If you have never taken Alpha Lipoic Acid as a powder, be prepared for a chemical burning taste, it's not pleasant, and we suggest using capsules.

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is used in the following Proprietary Formulas

21st Century Multi Vitamin and Multi Mineral Diabetes Formula, 4Life Shape Fast Ultra Peak Energy Formula, Alacer Emergen C Immune Defense Drink Mix, American Health More Than a Multiple, Bayer Nutritional Science Daily Multivitamin, Bionatures Alpha Lipoic Acid, Bionatures Cardiac One, Bionatures Heart Support, BodyTech Nitrulline, Bronson Laboratories Acetyl L-Carnitine with Alpha-Lipoic Acid, Carlson Mini-Gel Vitamins & Minerals, NSI Antioxidant Complex, NSI Healthy Liver Version, NSI Synergy Basic Multi Vitamin Version, Country Life Essential Life Caps, EAS Carb DynamX Body Shape, MuscleTech Cell-Tech Carb Control, Now Foods Alpha Lipoic Acid, Twinlab Alpha Lipoic Acid, GNC Alpha Lipoic Acid, GNC Mega Men Sport, GNC Preventron, GNC Ultra Mega

References & Further Research

American Cancer Society, "Dietary Supplements: How To Know What is Safe"
If you are thinking about using dietary supplements such as vitamins, herbs, or any product made from plants (botanicals) as part of your cancer treatment, you will want to know more before you decide what you want to do. This information offered here will help you learn more about dietary supplements so you can make a more informed decision about using them safely.

American Cancer Society, "Lipoic Acid"
This presents an overview and description of ALA, its benefits, sources, what it involves, and how it is widely promoted for use.

How Antioxidants Work
A roadmap of how antioxidants work and minimize damage to your cells caused by free radicals.

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) for International Customers

We have the most economical shipping costs & labeling practices for International orders. You can see our shipping costs here. Also, please note, that anything in a 1.5kg package can be shipped within a single flat rate envelope, however our shopping cart mistakenly displays 2 envelopes. Go ahead and ship the order, and you will notice that it only charges you the cost of 1 anyway. Look at the shipping costs tab above to see for yourself how you can calculate these charges.

Buying Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) Bulk or Wholesale

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