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ANTIOXIDANT OVERVIEW
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) also called thioctic acid, has been called the "universal" antioxidant. It is a sulfurous fatty acid that would have been classified as a vitamin except for the fact that it can be synthesized within the human body.
It helps to neutralize the effects of free radicals on the body by enhancing the antioxidant functions of vitamin C, vitamin E, and glutathione. It helps to recycle vitamins C and E, restoring their antioxidant properties after they have neutralized free radicals. Glutethione is one of the body's most powerful antioxidant enzymes, which helps dissolve toxic substances in the liver. It is a potent scavenger of hydroxyl free radicals and inhibits the cross-linking of the body's proteins.
Alpha-lipoic acid can be found in foods such as organ meats and vegetables (such as spinach, broccoli, potatoes, brewer's yeast). It is easily absorbed either from food eaten or from supplements.
Alpha-lipoic acid is also easily absorbed into the blood stream, and it can also cross the blood brain barrier. Unlike other antioxidants, lipoic acid is both fat and water soluble and is easily absorbed and transported across cell membranes. This unique quality offers protection against free radicals both inside and outside the cell while other antioxidants only provide extracellular protection.
HEALTH BENEFITS
ALA is known also as a metabolic antioxidant, because without it, cells cannot use sugar to produce energy. A benefit of this nutrient is that is assures the proper functioning of two key enzymes that convert food into energy (ATP).
Taking alpha-lipoic acid can sometimes lead to a mild and relaxing feeling, and lead to a better feeling of well-being. It can be beneficial for individuals that have the following conditions:
Diabetes or higher than normal blood sugar levels can be normalized with lipoic acid. Lipoic acid (300-600 mg per day) reduces insulin resistance (increased insulin sensitivity). It prevents and alleviates many of the detrimental side effects that occur as a result of diabetes mellitus (both type 1 and type 2). Lipoic acid prevents the diabetic neuropathy that is a common side effect of diabetes mellitus by improving nerve blood flow, reducing oxidative stress and improving distal nerve conduction in experimental diabetic neuropathy. Several studies have proved that alpha-lipoic acid has benefits for promoting healthy nerve function (diabetic neuropathy) in diabetic patients with a dosage of 600-1,200 mg per day.
MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Diabetes
High cholesterol levels.
Early stage cataracts reduced in persons with diabetes. Lipoic Acid helps to prevent Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) due to the antioxidant properties of lipoic acid, it can penetrate eye tissue and protect both the lens and retina of your eyes from degeneration. It also helps alleviate glaucoma. In a study about glaucoma, 150 mg of lipoic acid per day for one month was shown to alleviates glaucoma in 47% of the people and improved their visual acuity, visual field color discrimination and increased lacrimal tear fluid.
Cardiovascular problems such as hardening of the arteries.
Lipoic acid is used therapeutically to treat liver ailments and it protects the liver from the toxic effects of many pharmaceutical drugs. It is also an effective therapy in the treatment of food poisoning by toxic mushrooms.
ALPHA LIPOIC ACID & HCV
ALPHA LIPOIC ACID
Alpha lipoic acid is a vitamin-like substance that is used as an antioxidant. Many sources list it as the most powerful antioxidant ever discovered. When looking around at various protocols for hepatitis C, you will find that more likely than not alpha lipoic acid is considered an important part of the health regimen for patients with HCV. It is considered an important and versatile antioxidant that enhances the functions of vitamins C and E and glutathione. For these reasons many people with liver conditions, especially HCV, take it as a staple part of their "treatment programs".
Many health care providers who treat patients with HCV prescribe this antioxidant, especially those in the natural healing community, although not limited to the natural healing community.
The functions of alpha lipoic acid is to neutralize free radicals in the body by enhancing the antioxidant functions of vitamins C and E and glutathione. According to Lloyd Wright (hepatitis C survivor, researcher and author), ALA is "used in Europe to restore liver health and confer protective benefits against oxidative processes involved in degenerative diseases."
Another interesting piece of information about this substance is found in his book Triumph Over Hepatitis C. He states that it regenerates glutathione, giving cells a "double dose of antioxidant protection". Further he writes, "It is also easily absorbed when taken orally, and once inside cells is quickly converted to its most potent form, dihydrolipoic acid, an even more potent free-radical neutralizer than ALA. Because both alpha lipoic acid and dihydrolipoic acid are antioxidants, their combined actions give them greater antioxidant potency than any other natural antioxidant now known."
Lloyd Wright, claims that he has rid his body of this virus through natural healing therapies and that there are no signs of the virus in his system after his recovery. Among other supplements, he took alpha lipoic acid everyday and suggests it was a "vital" in his fight against hepatitis C.
Other points he made in its favor are: Ester Packer, professor of molecular biology at UC Berkley, says it is the most important antioxidant ever discovered; and that scientists have found that it can inhibit replication of HCV-1 and other viruses through its ability to bind directly to DNA.
A holistic health care provider, Jesse Stoff, M.D., director of IntegaMed in Tucson, AZ, says hepatitis C is a treatable and often reversible condition. He gives detailed description of a case in which it was cured with natural remedies and supplements which can be found on the alternativemedicine.com website. He lists alpha lipoic acid as one of the supplements that should be taken. He says, "it is always useful in treating chronic liver inflammation". According to Dr. Stoff ALA occurs naturally in potatoes, carrots, yams, sweet potatoes. He reinforces that when given as a supplement it can increase the body's production of glutatione, an enzyme that protects the cells from damage by harmful free-radicals.
Overall it is considered to be a very important anti-oxidant and very important in treating chronic inflammation of the liver.
Amazon.com Books: Triumph Over Hepatitis C: An Alternative Medicine Solution
-- by Lloyd Wright (Author), Aunica Stratton (Editor)
SUPPLEMENT DIRECTIONS
Capsules contain between 50-300 mg Alpha-Lipoic Acid. Recommended daily dose is between 50 mg to 100 mg. Take 1-2 capsules daily with a meal or as directed by a health care provider or nutritionist.
ALPHA LIPOIC ACID PRODUCTS
Wrinkle Cream, NOW Foods, Wrinkle Skin Rescue, 2 oz.
NOW Food's Wrinkle Cream is specially formulated with Ascorbyl Palmitate, Alpha Lipoic Acid and Vitamin E. These potent antioxidants protect skin from the aging effects of sunlight and other types of oxidative stress. This wonderful wrinkle cream also contains DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol), a popular new skin care ingredient. Now's Wrinkle cream has a combination of antioxidants and essential oils that helps to diminish the signs of aging, but also keeps skin moist, firm and supple.
Alpha Lipoic Acid, NOW Foods, 250 mg, 60 Caps
Alpha-Lipoic Acid is a versatile water and fat soluble metabolic antioxidant. Another benefit is that it also acts as a potent free radical quencher and aids other vitamins in their antioxidant activities.
Red Yeast Rice With CoQ10, NOW Foods, 120 Caps
NOW ® Red Yeast Rice is beneficial in improving blood circulation, in aiding digestion, and in treating abdominal pain. It is further enhanced with the addition of CoQ10 to support healthy cardiovascular and immune system function, Milk Thistle Extract to support healthy liver function, and Alpha Lipoic Acid to provide antioxidant support.
Alpha Lipoic Acid, High Potency Vegetarian, W/ Grape Seed Extract & Bioperine, NOW Foods, 600 mg, 60 Vcaps
Known for it's powerful free radical fighting attributes, ALA is legendary in its ability to prolong the life span and effectiveness of partnering antioxidants, especially vitamins C and E.
Alpha Lipoic Acid Nature's Ultimate Antioxidant, By Allan Sosin, M.D. & Beth Ley Ph.D.
This book shows how to fight back against aging and degenerative diseases with nature's powerful antioxidant.
Alpha Lipoic Acid Nature's Supreme Antioxidant, By Rita Elkins, M.H. (Paperback)
Rita Elkins discusses how this amazing free-radical scavenger has gained impressive credentials from the results of various studies and its use in Europe and elsewhere.
Alpha Lipoic Acid W/ Rosemary, Nature's Way, Pharmaceutical Grade, 50 mg, 60 Caps.
Alpha Lipoic Acid is central to recycling other antioxidants like Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and GSH glutathione.
Body Creme, Tissue Revitalizing, Antioxidant Skin Care System with Lipoic Acid, DMAE, Vitamin C Ester & Tocotrienol, 8 fl. oz.
NutriBiotic Tissue Revitalizing Body Creme combines the four key ingredients that protect your skin against free radical damage and help minimize the aging effects of sun and pollution.
Damage Control Master Formula, High Potency Multivitamin, 60 Packets (30 Day Supply)
The Damage Control Master Formula - Pure and simply the world's most comprehensive and complete balanced high potency multi-vitamin, mineral, anti-oxidant, anti-aging, anti-stress, anti-fatigue, immune-supporting, performance-enhancing product.
Facial Cleanser, Natural Foaming W/Organic Aloe Vera, Lipoic Acid & DMAE, 3.4 fl. oz.
Foaming Natural Facial Cleanser provides a luxurious foam and gentle, effective cleansing without drying your skin or making it feel taut.
Skin Formula, Antioxidant Skin Care System With Lipoic Acid, DMAE, Vitamin C Ester & Tocotrienol, 60 Caps
This antioxidant formula supports and enhances your body's natural defense mechanisms against free radical damage from the inside, where caring for your skin starts.
Face Creme, Tissue Revitalizing, Antioxidant Skin Care System With Lipoic Acid, DMAE, Vitamin C Ester & Tocotrienol, 2 fl. oz.
Tissue Revitalizing Face Creme contains all four key ingredients, DMAE, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamin C Ester and Tocotrienol, to rejuvenate your skin and reduce the signs of aging.
Super Skin Serum, Antioxidant Skin Care System, With Lipoic Acid, DMAE, Vitamin C Ester & Tocotrienol, 1 fl. oz.
Unique to Super Skin Serum is the healing power of beta glucan, a complex carbohydrate. Oat beta glucan, found in the bran part of the oat, stimulates renewal of skin cells and is used by burn surgeons worldwide to treat burn victims.
Multi-Vitamin & Multi-Mineral For Diabetics, Iron Free, All Natural, Nature's Way, Vegetarian, Completia Diabetic Vitamin Formula, 90 Tabs
Twice daily multi-vitamin for diabetics, with Alpha Lipoic Acid, Fenugreek and GTF Chromium for daily support.
Facial Mist, Fragrance Free, Hydrating Oil W/NaPCA Organic Aloe Vera, Lipoic Acid & DMAE, 2 fl. oz.
This light moisturizing spray provides your skin with a refreshing antioxidant treatment that will protect your skin and leave it feeling fresh and revitalized with no oil.
FOR MORE PRODUCTS & INFORMATION CLICK ON THESE LINKS:
HerbalRemedies: Alpha Lipoic Acid / Lipoic Acid / Thioctic Acid Supplements & Products
HerbalRemedies: Alpha Lipoic Acid / Lipoic Acid / Thioctic Acid Information
CAUTIONS
High doses of alpha-lipoic acid can cause nausea and upset stomachs, and excessive doses can lead to low blood sugar.
People with a vitamin B-12 deficiency should avoid alpha-lipoic acid as its use may cause a worsening of symptoms.
Pregnant or lactating women, diabetics, hypoglycemics, and people with known medical conditions and/or taking drugs, should consult with a health care provider, midwife, and/or pharmacist prior to taking dietary supplements.
HELPFUL RELATED LINKS
Nutrition Reporter: Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha-Lipoic Acid Information & Products
Super Alpha-Lipoic Acid Information & Products
Wellness Guide to Dietary Supplements: Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha-Lipoic Acid Information & Products
Amazon.com Books: Alpha Lipoic Acid Breakthrough: The Superb Antioxidant That May Slow Aging, Repair Liver Damage, & Reduce the Risk of Cancer, Heart Disease, & Diabetes
-- by Burt Berkson, Burton Berkson
Amazon.com Books: Alpha Lipoic Acid: Nature's Ultimate Antioxidant
-- by Allan E. Sosin, et al.
Amazon.com Books: Alpha Lipoic Acid: Nature's Supreme Antioxidant
-- by Rita Elkins
Amazon.com Books: The Potato Antioxidant: Alpha Lipoic Acid: A Health Learning Handbook
-- by Beth M. Ley
Amazon.com Books: All About Alpha-Lipoic Acid (Frequently Asked Questions)
-- by Cynthia M. Watson, MD
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HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
This is only a small sample of educational materials and products available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
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