Alpha lipoic acid (ALA), a powerful antioxidant, is well known for its ability to relieve the nerve pain of diabetic neuropathy. But new research shows that this vitamin-like substance has far broader health benefits. In a study in mice genetically engineered to develop heart disease, ALA was associated with 40% less weight gain, and a 55% reduction in atherosclerotic lesions—the fatty streaks that set the stage for clogged arteries. ALA also lowered triglycerides. High levels of these fats are a risk factor for heart disease.
ALA helps with fatty acid oxidation, so it may help the body burn fat for energy. It also seems to reduce appetite by working directly in the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that sends out hunger and satiety signals. There, it suppresses an enzyme, protein kinase that results in reduced appetite and food intake, and increased energy expenditure.
All in all, researchers say, ALA supplementation may be “a promising approach to prevent weight gain and to lower cardiovascular risk.” By their calculations, an equivalent human daily dose may be 2,000 mg of ALA for a 70 kg (154 lb) person. Good food sources of alpha-lipoic acid include spinach, broccoli, beef and yeast (particularly Brewer's yeast. However to get this high amount discussed in the study, supplemental ALA would be required. While most ALA supplements range in the 100 mg to 400 mg range, any amount would be beneficial to your health. (Zhang, W-J, et al. Circulation 2008;117:421-428.)
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: As we age, keeping weight off seems to be an almost insurmountable problem for many of us. Yet it’s essential to preserving your health and warding off many diseases, like diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers. ALA may provide yet another avenue to maintaining a healthy weight by controlling appetite and burning fat for energy.
QUICK TIP: The combination of acetyl-L-carnitine and alpha lipoic acid effectively lowers blood pressure. Learn More
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