Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid is a sulfur-containing compound the body makes in small amounts and uses in enzymes that produce energy. Spinach, broccoli and organ meats contain a little.
Also listed as ALA, thioctic acid, Alpha Lipoid Acid
R-alpha-lipoic acid or an R/S mixture?
The molecule exists in two mirror-image forms, R and S; R is the naturally occurring form. Supplements may contain R alone or a mixture. Differences in absorption do not, on their own, establish better symptom relief or safer long-term use. 1 2
A supplement is not a substitute for a treatment plan
In Germany, alpha-lipoic acid is sold both as a supplement and as a medicine. No health claims are authorized for alpha-lipoic acid supplements in the EU, according to the Verbraucherzentrale. A label describing antioxidant activity therefore should not be read as proof of disease prevention. 3