How To Take Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha lipoic acid can be purchased in doses of 30 - 100 mg tablets, as of this writing, but there are no established recommended doses. As always, first consult your health practitioner before taking a new medication or supplement, especially before taking more than the generalized recommendations.

For general antioxidant support - Take 20 - 50 mg per day. Alpha lipoic acid can be taken on an empty stomach or with food.

For diabetes and diabetic neuropathy - Take 800 mg per day in divided doses or according to your physician's instructions.

There are two types of alpha lipoic acid on the market. Ray Sahelian, M.D. , ALA diabetes research and author of Mind Boosters: A Guide to Natural Supplements that Enhance Your Mind, Memory, and Mood (St. Martin's Press, 2000), recommends the natural form ALA called R-Lipoic acid, which about twice as potent than the commonly sold synthetic lipoic acid.

References:

  1. A.D.A.M., Inc., "Alpha-lipoic acid," University of Maryland Medical Center
  2. McMackin, C.J., et al., "Effect of combined treatment with alpha-Lipoic acid and acetyl-L-carnitine on vascular function and blood pressure in patients with coronary artery disease," J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2007 Apr;9(4):249-55
  3. Kirchheimer, Sid, "Antioxidant Soothes Diabetic Neuropathy," WebMD, April 11, 2003
  4. Berkson, Burton M., MD, MS, PhD, "Alpha Lipoic Acid and Liver Disease," Townsend Letter, December, 2007
  5. Sahelian, Ray, M.D., Alpha Lipoic Acid supplement benefit, side effects, use for blood sugar, diabetes Information
  6. Oregon State University, "Lipoic Acid Explored As Anti-aging Compound" ScienceDaily, May 18, 2007