Alpha lipoic acid is one of the lesser-known antioxidants.  It was not until the late 1980s until scientists realized that alpha lipoic acid possessed potent antioxidant properties that could prevent healthy cells from being damaged by unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals.

Due to its superior antioxidant properties, Europeans have used alpha lipoic acid for years to counter nerve damage in people with both type I and II diabetes.  Scientific researchers are now examining exactly how alpha lipoic acid may help those with diabetes.  Diabetic neuropathy is a painful condition that can develop in those who have had uncontrolled diabetes for a long time.  Researchers postulate that the neuropathy may be caused by free radical damage to nerves due to poorly regulated blood sugar.  As one of the most powerful antioxidants, alpha lipoic acid helps to block such damage.  Further, alpha lipoic acid has an effect on glucose metabolism, which may improve the glucose lowering action of insulin.

A well established clinical trial studied 328 people with diabetic neuropathy. The participants received either 100mg, 600mg or 1200mg of alpha lipoic acid daily for three weeks.  Participants taking 600mg daily had the greatest reduction in pain and numbness1.

Another study demonstrated alpha lipoic acid aids approximately 25% of people with diabetes who risk sudden death from nerve related heart damage.  Improved heart function in people at risk was observed when taking 800mg of alpha lipoic acid daily for four months.

If you or someone in your family has diabetes or is at risk for diabetes, talk to your physician about how alpha lipoic acid’s antioxidant powers may be beneficial.  Alpha lipoic acid is available from your local health store or click here to purchase from Physician’s Preference and save 10-20%!

1. Low P., Dotson R. Symptomatic Treatment of Painful Neuropathy. Jama. 1998 Dec 280:1983-1864

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