Where Can You Find Alpha Lipoic Acid?

Alpha lipoic acid is manufactured by the body and is found in small amounts in several foods. These include spinach, broccoli, peas, Brewer's yeast, Brussels sprouts, rice bran, potatoes and organ meats (kidney, heart and liver). The effectiveness of the low levels of ALA obtained by eating these foods hasn't been proven. Concentrated amounts of ALA are available--without a prescription--in capsule form from health food stores and online sites.

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