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October 2010
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Alpha Lipoic Acid - A Potent Antioxidant

Are There Alternative Therapies For Curing Hypothyroidism?

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Alpha Lipoic Acid - A Potent Antioxidant

Alpha Lipoic Acid is a potent antioxidant. Unlike other antioxidants, which work only in water or fatty tissues, lipoic acid can function in both water and fat. It is also thought to help recycle other antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E. Alpha lipoic acid is a sulfur-containing fatty acid found inside each and every body cell. Lipoic acid has a key role in the metabolism as it helps to convert glucose into cellular energy.

Alpha Lipoic Acid is widely used in prevention of various diseases. Alpha Lipoic Acid antioxidant properties mean that it can help to protect against diseases caused by oxidative damage, for example cancer and cardiovascular disease. Its main function is to increase production of glutathione, which helps dissolve toxic substances in the liver. An antioxidant helps neutralize free radicals in our bodies and protects our cells from damage. A free radical is an unstable molecule that tries to steal electrons from other molecules, thus causing damage. Smoking, pollution, car exhaust, fried foods are some sources of free radicals.

A body exposed to free radicals becomes more susceptible to diseases such as diabetes and liver damage. ALA, sometimes called the "universal" antioxidants holds the capacity to neutralize the effects of free radicals in both fatty and water-based environments. Although ALA is a naturally occuring anti-oxidant in the body, it is also gleaned and made from plant foods like tomatoes, spinach and brocolli, as well as beef, yeast, and kidneys. Alpha lipoic acid can be found in foods such as meats, and veggies (ie. spinach). Alpha lipoic acid is also easily absorbed into the blood stream, and it can also cross the blood brain barrier.

Our bodies receive alpha-lipoic acid through dietary sources such spinach and liver, but studies have shown that most daily food consumption does not contain enough alpha-lipoic acid to counter the damaging effects of free radicals, and many scientist recommend daily supplements containing alpha-lipoic acid.

BENEFITS OF ALPHA LIPOIC ACID
In addition to its antioxidant properties, ALA directs calories away from fat production and toward energy production, supports blood sugar levels already within the normal range and enhances the nervous and cardio-vascular systems. The prevention and cure by ALA, by virtue of neutralizing free radicals, is worth the credit it has gained in the therapeutic market.

An improvement in the skin tone can be achieved by the use of ALA Lotion. ALA fights the free radicals present in the body, and thereby prevents the aging process. The massage of effective ALA Lotion on the body is beneficial. The observed effectiveness is more if applied to highly wet skin, say after taking a bath.

It also has several potential benefits for diabetics as it enhances glucose uptake in non-insulin dependent diabetes, inhibits glycosylation, and improves diabetic neuropathy. Some research has also indicated that it can improve vision in patients with glaucoma. In vitro studies have shown that alpha lipoic acid can inhibit replication of the HIV virus.

Alpha Lipoic acid supports healthy liver regeneration, immune function and circulation, as well as vision and glucose metabolism. It also supports cardiovascular and neurological health. Being a powerful antioxidant, it protects and repairs cells and reduces damage caused by oxidation. Alpha Lipoic acid also improves the effectiveness of vitamin C and E, two well-known antioxidants.

ALPHA LIPOIC ACID USES
Alpha Lipoic Acid has many benefits, and all types of people will benefit from taking ALA. ALA may be specifically useful for:

• Alpha lipoic acid helps make vitamin C and E work better
• Alpha lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals
• Alpha lipoic acid helps increase glutathione which helps with detoxification
• It helps protect the lens and retina of your eyes from degeneration, and also helps alleviate glaucoma
• Alpha lipoic acid is used to treat and detox the liver
• The potent antioxidants in alpha-lipoic acid protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals, thus helping to slow the aging process.
• The antioxidants found in alpha-lipoic acid strengthen and stimulate the immune system, better preparing it to ward off disease and infection.

ALPH ALIPOIC ACID SIDE EFFECTS
Alpha lipoic acid has few if any side effects. Higher doses of Alpha Lipoic Acid can cause nausea and upset stomachs, and excessive doses can even lead to low blood sugar.

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