Alpha Lipoic Acid

200mg

The antioxidant network hub. Regenerates vitamins C and E and glutathione. Uniquely both fat- and water-soluble - active in every tissue compartment simultaneously. Supports glucose metabolism.

Category Mitochondrial
Dose 200mg
Form R-ALA preferred - encapsulated
Evidence Level Strong - multiple human studies

Mechanism

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a potent antioxidant synthesised endogenously in mitochondria. Its unique dual solubility - both fat-soluble and water-soluble - means it can neutralise free radicals in both lipid membranes and aqueous cellular environments, unlike vitamin C (water-soluble only) or vitamin E (fat-soluble only).

ALA regenerates oxidised forms of glutathione, vitamin C, and vitamin E, amplifying the entire antioxidant network. It also acts as a mitochondrial cofactor for key energy-producing enzymes, including pyruvate dehydrogenase and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase.

Key Benefits

  • Both fat- and water-soluble - active in all tissue compartments
  • Regenerates vitamins C and E and glutathione
  • Mitochondrial cofactor for energy metabolism enzymes
  • Part of the cellular antioxidant network studied extensively in mitochondrial research
  • R-form has higher bioavailability than racemic ALA

The Research

Peer-reviewed human trials supporting this ingredient at this dose.

Packer L, et al. (1995). Free Radic Biol Med. 19(2):227-50.Alpha-lipoic acid as a biological antioxidant.PubMed →
Shay KP, et al. (2009). Biochim Biophys Acta. 1790(10):1149-60.Alpha-lipoic acid as a dietary supplement: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential.PubMed →
Isenmann E, et al. (2020). J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 17(1):61.The effects of alpha lipoic acid on muscle strength recovery after a single and a short-term chronic supplementation.PubMed →
Ziegler D, et al. (2004). Diabet Med. 21(2):114-21.Alpha-lipoic acid effects on peripheral nerve function: a meta-analysis of clinical studies.PubMed →
In the formula

Alpha Lipoic Acid

200mg

R-ALA preferred - encapsulated

When to take it

Take with food. R-ALA can be taken any time of day.

Works well with

Mitochondrial N-Acetyl Cysteine 600mg Mitochondrial Ubiquinol (CoQ10) 100mg Cardiovascular Vitamin C 500mg
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