Anti-Inflammation & Antioxidants
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
Also known as: α-lipoic acid · Thioctic acid · R-ALA · R-lipoic acid
A unique antioxidant active in both water and fat-soluble environments. Clinical standard for diabetic peripheral neuropathy. R-ALA is the natural isomer with superior bioactivity.
Effective Dose
300–600mg / day
per clinical evidence
Evidence Level
Moderate
Anti-Inflammation & Antioxidants
Mechanism
Universal antioxidant (water and fat-soluble), metal chelation, glucose transporter upregulation
primary action
Best For
Diabetic neuropathy
Antioxidant, Insulin sensitivity, Heavy metal detox
This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
What Is Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)?
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a sulphur-containing fatty acid that serves as a mitochondrial co-factor and is unique among antioxidants in being active in both aqueous and lipid environments. It regenerates vitamins C and E, glutathione, and CoQ10 from their oxidised forms. Intravenous ALA is established medical treatment for diabetic neuropathy in Germany.
How It Works: The Science
ALA and its reduced form DHLA form a potent redox couple that regenerates other antioxidants. ALA chelates transition metals (iron, copper, mercury, lead), reducing Fenton reaction-driven oxidative damage. It stimulates glucose uptake by increasing GLUT4 translocation via PI3K/Akt (insulin-mimetic action). R-ALA is the naturally occurring enantiomer with significantly greater bioactivity than synthetic racemic ALA.
Primary Mechanism
Universal antioxidant (water and fat-soluble), metal chelation, glucose transporter upregulation
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dosage Guide
Effective Dose
300–600mg / day
300–600mg R-ALA or 600–1200mg racemic ALA daily on an empty stomach (food significantly reduces absorption). R-ALA is 2–4× more bioactive — use half the dose. Sodium R-ALA (stabilised form) has better absorption than free R-ALA.
Safety Profile & Side Effects
Generally safe. May cause hypoglycaemia in diabetics taking insulin or glucose-lowering drugs — monitor blood glucose. Biotin competes with ALA for transport — supplement biotin separately if using ALA long-term.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It
Diabetics and pre-diabetics (especially those with peripheral neuropathy), those with heavy metal exposure concerns, and anyone wanting comprehensive antioxidant support beyond vitamin C and E.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ingredients
Medical Disclaimer
Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →