Alpha-Lipoic AcidNew
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a mitochondria-made, universal antioxidant active in both water- and fat-soluble environments. It regenerates vitamins C and E and glutathione, activates AMPK, and supports glucose metabolism and nerve health. A 2025 dose-response meta-analysis of 63 randomized trials found modest improvements in fasting glucose, HbA1c, insulin sensitivity, body composition and inflammatory markers.
Mechanism of Action
Cofactor for mitochondrial dehydrogenase complexes. Regenerates vitamins C and E and glutathione, and chelates heavy metals. Activates AMPK and improves insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, lowering oxidative stress.
Latest Research
Reviewed Sep 15, 2026
A 2025 systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of 63 randomized controlled trials (Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases) found that alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) supplementation modestly improved several cardiometabolic markers versus control: fasting blood glucose fell by about 5.3 mg/dL, HbA1c by 0.40 percentage points and HOMA-IR by 0.74, alongside small reductions in body weight, BMI, waist circumference, total cholesterol and triglycerides; LDL, HDL and blood pressure were unchanged. A separate 2021 dose-response meta-analysis (20 RCTs) reported lower CRP (−0.69 mg/L), IL-6 (−1.83 pg/mL) and TNF-α, and a 2024 meta-analysis in chronic kidney disease found reduced high-sensitivity CRP (−2.91 mg/L). These are pooled, population-level effects that do not guarantee individual results; ALA is a dietary supplement, not a drug, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Because ALA can lower blood glucose, discuss use with your physician if you take insulin or other glucose-lowering medication, and separate dosing from thyroid medication by about four hours.
Alpha-lipoic acid vs control · 63 RCTs · dose-response meta-analysis
ALA & cardiometabolic blood markers
Source: Mohammadi S, et al. Effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on cardiometabolic risk factors: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of 63 randomized controlled trials. Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases, 2025. Bars show the weighted mean difference vs control; whiskers are the 95% CI. ALA also lowered HbA1c (−0.40%), HOMA-IR (−0.74), fasting insulin, body weight, BMI and waist circumference; LDL, HDL and blood pressure were unchanged.
Latest research
- Mohammadi S, et al. Effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on cardiometabolic risk factors: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis. Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases, 2025.
- Rezaei H, et al. Effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on weight loss, inflammatory, lipid, and hematological levels in patients with chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs. Journal of Renal Nutrition, 2024.
- Vajdi M, et al. An updated systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of RCTs on the effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers. International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research, 2021.
- Akbari M, et al. The effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on glucose control and lipid profiles among patients with metabolic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs. Metabolism, 2018.
Dosing Protocol
600mg R-ALAmg
Standard starting dose based on research
Therapeutic Range
300
Minimum
1200
Maximum
On empty stomach, split doses
Dosages are general guidelines. Individual requirements vary based on body weight, health status, and specific goals. Start with lower doses and adjust based on response.
Benefits
Primary Benefits
- Blood sugar regulation
- Neuroprotection
- Antioxidant recycling
- Heavy metal chelation
Secondary Benefits
Safety Information
Contraindications
Do not use if any of the following apply:
- •Insulin or sulfonylureas (monitor glucose)
- •Thyroid medication (separate by 4h)
Potential Side Effects
Some users may experience:
This is not a complete list of interactions or side effects. Individual responses vary. Always start with the lowest effective dose and monitor your response. Report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider.
Quality Markers
Look for these specific quality indicators when sourcing this compound:
- R-alpha lipoic acid form
- Stabilized
- GMP certified
Trusted Certifications
Note: Supplement quality varies dramatically between brands. Cheap supplements often contain fillers, incorrect doses, or contaminants. Investing in quality products from reputable manufacturers is essential for safety and efficacy.
Evidence Profile
Evidence Score
7/10
Moderate Evidence
Some clinical trials with positive results, emerging research
Evidence Scale
8-10
Strong
5-7
Moderate
1-4
Emerging
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