Alpha-lipoic acid

Silver· human data

Also known as: ALA, Thioctic acid

An antioxidant with the best evidence for diabetic nerve pain and modest glucose effects.

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant that works in both water and fat compartments and helps regenerate other antioxidants, studied mainly in metabolic and nerve health.

Its best evidence is for reducing symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (used as a medicine in some countries), with more modest effects on blood glucose and body weight. It is reasonably well tolerated; it can lower blood sugar, so watch for additive effects with diabetes medication.

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Written and reviewed by Mathew Beale, MSc Biotechnology, University of Reading.

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