Alpha lipoic acid is a substance believed to be the universal antioxidant due to its solubility in both water and oil. Because of this, it is easily absorbed by the body and quickly renders many beneficial effects to the body. Its main function is to increase the amount of glutathione produced by the body, which helps in dissolving and eliminating toxic substances in the liver. Most common food sources of alpha lipoic acid include meats, spinach, brewer's yeast and liver.
Antioxidant. An antioxidant is a molecule that slows down the process of cell oxidation, which tend to produce free radicals that damage the cells and sometimes even cause cancer. Alpha lipoic acid is one of the most powerful antioxidants discovered to date, which helps increase the body's supply of glutathione. Alpha lipoic acid also fights free radicals, which help maintain healthy cells.
Other antioxidant benefits of alpha lipoic acid include improved cell regeneration which aids in maintaining young-looking and healthy skin. As people age, cells lose their capabilities to regenerate, causing skin to sag and oftentimes produce wrinkles. Alpha lipoic acid can therefore help you maintain that young and healthy look, even in old age.
Diabetes. People with diabetes have low levels of insulin, which regulates the blood sugar level in the body. Alpha lipoic helps reduce blood sugar in diabetics and balances it in non-diabetics. However, consult a physician first before taking any dosage of this substance, since you may have to adjust other medications you are currently taking.
Liver regeneration. Excessive intake of alcohol can cause your liver to degenerate and find it difficult to regenerate and put itself back in order. Alpha lipoic acid actually helps in solving the problem of regeneration by helping produce significant amounts of glutathione, which is considered to be liver food.
Cholesterol. Among other things, alpha lipoic acid also helps balance the level of cholesterol in the body.
Hypertension. Alpha lipoic acid will improve your blood flow and circulation and even strengthen your heart muscles and arteries, which is beneficial if you are suffering from hypertension. High blood pressure needs to be treated immediately, otherwise it could cause further damage to your heart and lungs- and alpha lipoic acid can effectively do that.
Glaucoma. Although research isn't conclusive enough, some studies have discovered that alpha lipoic acids helps in the treatment of glaucoma, a string of diseases in the optic nerves.
Remember to keep your alpha lipoic intake in check since excessive dosages can actually be more damaging to the body than otherwise. Also, check with your doctor if it is advisable for you to take this substance, since some people have adverse reactions to alpha lipoic acid, depending on the make-up of their bodies. Regular exercise and a healthy, well-balanced diet is still more beneficial to the body than any supplement out there.
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