Alpha-lipoic acid fulfils two crucial functions in the organism: Firstly, in its natural form as a coenzyme, it plays an important role in energy metabolism and is responsible for the cell’s ownEnergy productionindispensable. On the other hand, it is one of thestrongest antioxidantsin the human body and can also regenerate used radical scavengers such as vitamin C, vitamin E, coenzyme Q10 and glutathione.
Alpha-lipoic acid – also known as α-lipoic acid or LA from the Englishlipoic acid– it is a sulphur-containing fatty acid that is both fat- and water-soluble. It can cross the blood-brain barrier andoccurs in all cells of the organismIt is found as a coenzyme in the mitochondria of almost all eukaryotes. These are living organisms with cells that have a cell nucleus, for example humans, animals, fungi and plants.
What functions does alpha-lipoic acid have?
As a coenzyme, alpha-lipoic acid is involved in a variety of enzymatic reactions. These include hydrogen and acyl group transfer. The substance is crucial fornormal energy metabolismand also has the ability to return antioxidants such as vitamin C or coenzyme Q10 to their original form. Alpha-lipoic acid not only neutralizes excess free radicals as a powerful antioxidant,it also increases the vitamin C content in the cellsand overall antioxidant activity in the human organism.
Alpha-lipoic acid for diabetes
Around ten percent of diabetics suffer from type 1 diabetes. It usually develops in childhood and adolescence due to a lack of insulin and is therefore clearly distinguishable from type 2 diabetes, which occurs in old age. Alpha-lipoic acid has a number of positive effects on people who suffer from a form of diabetes mellitus.it improves insulin sensitivity, supports the optimized energy production of cells from glucose and contributes toNormalization of blood sugar levelsat.
Alpha-lipoic acid is also considered to be a preventative measure against the complications of diabetes, such as cardiovascular disease, polyneuropathy and cataracts. It is also said to increase the glutathione levels, which are generally too low in diabetics. The German Diabetes Society therefore recommends treatment with alpha-lipoic acid preparations.
Alpha-lipoic acid for brain, liver and energy
Alpha-lipoic acid can, thanks to its biological properties, pass through the blood-brain barrier and therefore has a protective effect on brain structures. It improves blood flow to the nerve endings and is used preventively and therapeutically against nerve damage. Alpha-lipoic acid supports the normal transmission of stimuli from the nerve endings. In addition, it promotesLiver functionby helping to break down toxic substances and protecting the liver from oxidative damage and fatty degeneration.
Alpha-lipoic acid could also prove helpful in cases of chronic fatigue syndrome. In all probability, the cause of the syndrome is a disturbed energy metabolism. Alpha-lipoic acid can help to stimulate and normalize this metabolism.
Alpha-lipoic acid in food and dietary supplements
It is found primarily in offal such as liver, heart or kidneys. But vegetables such as broccoli, spinach and tomatoes also contain significant amounts of alpha-lipoic acid. The active ingredient is also available in the form of dietary supplements such as tablets and capsules or as high-dose medicines - also as infusion solutions.
