Alpha Lipoic Acid Antioxidant Properties

Alpha lipoic acid is an organosulfur compound present in most foods. It’s most richly concentrated in heart, liver, kidney, broccoli and spinach. This acid is a very effective and potent antioxidant. There are plenty of strong antioxidants available that can help to neutralize free radicals and decrease oxidative stress. However, alpha lipoic acid is slightly different as it can act in both fat-soluble and water-soluble areas of tissues and cells. This makes it easily absorbed and transported throughout various systems and organs within the body.

Other antioxidants, such as vitamin E and C for example, aren’t this flexible because they don’t share this same versatility in solubility. However, when alpha lipoic acid is combined with these antioxidants, the body is able to combat free radical damage more successfully. Also, alpha lipoic acid helps to regenerate vitamins E and C.

Another great benefit of alpha lipoic acid is that it enhances the effects of other important antioxidants, in particular, coenzyme Q10 and glutathione. It also supports the B-vitamin group in the conversion of carbohydrates, fats and proteins into stored energy. Alpha lipoic acid helps to protect the mitochondria, ensuring that energy production remains efficient.

The powerful antioxidant activity associated with alpha lipoic acid offers the body many health benefits:

Protecting Bone Density
Alpha lipoic acid has been shown to help protect the body against degenerative bone conditions such as osteoporosis. In laboratory studies, the application of alpha lipoic acid significantly suppresses the formation of osteoclase cells. These are the bone-degrading cells associated with diseases such as osteoporosis. Alpha lipoic acid has also been shown to suppress inflammation-induced bone loss. Thus, this acid may have a therapeutic role in helping to prevent and manage conditions that attack bone density.

Supporting Eye Health
Animal studies investigating the effects of alpha lipoic acid have revealed that this compound offers protection against cataract formation. Other human-based research has shown that alpha lipoic acid can also reduce the symptoms of glaucoma. These studies suggest that this compound is very important for maintaining good visual health.

Safeguarding From Diabetes & Related Aliments
Alpha lipoic acid helps to maintain healthy blood-sugar levels and insulin sensitivity, both of which are important for preventing the development of type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that this compound enhances the lipid profile, decreases blood pressure and insulin resistance, and helps to stimulate weight loss. Consequently, alpha lipoic acid is also very important for safeguarding against cardiovascular disease.

Neuroprotection
Various investigations into the antioxidant activity of alpha lipoic acid have discovered that this compound can help to protect the neurological system. Animal studies reveal that alpha lipoic acid can reduce brain damage following stroke and enhance survival rate of stroke victims. Furthermore, this compound may also help to prevent or better manage diseases such as Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis.

Summary

Alpha lipoic acid is a very important antioxidant with a wide array of health benefits. In addition to protecting bone density, eyesight, cardiovascular and neurological health, this compound removes toxins from the body and preserves healthy skin. Often people don’t receive enough of this vital compound in their diet, which is why EverSun Health’s Men’s Everyday Energy Multivitamin contains 50mg of alpha lipoic acid. Regularly taking this supplement will ensure that the body receives all the health benefits this compound offers.