Alpha-lipoic-acid--the-anti-aging-antioxidant
By GiGi Konwin
Alpha Lipoic is the new kid in the anti aging antioxidant field. Antioxidants eliminate the free radicals in our bodies caused by stress,pollution and bad diets. This can lead to cell damage and chronic diseases.

Although Alpha lipoic has been known since the 1950s, it was originally thought to be a vitamin and wasn't classified as an antioxidant until 1988.

All antioxidants basically work the same - they are chemicals that get rid of free radicals -- destructive chemicals produced by the body and thought to contribute to aging and ailments ranging from heart disease to stroke.

What's Different About Alpha Lipoic Acid?

Alpha Lipoic is the only antioxidant that is soluble in water AND fat. It can go into all cell parts. It's the only antioxidant that can reach the brain.

It is a metabolic antioxidant, which means it is important for cell metabolism or the energy of the cell.

The body actually makes enough alpha-lipoic for cell metabolism,however it acts as an antioxidant only when there is an excess of it and it is in the "free" state in the cells. There is little free alpha-lipoic circulating in your body, unless you consume supplements.

It is readily absorbed when taken orally, and once inside cells is shortly changed to its most powerful form, dihydrolipoic acid.

What Are The Benefits of Alpha Lipoic Acid?

*It is currently utilized in Europe to treat peripheral nerve degeneration (neuropathy) resulting from diabetes. *It helps make Vitamin C and Vitamin E work better. *It is used to treat and detox the liver. *Protects and repairs cells. *Scientists are discovering it may be helpful in treating or preventing cataracts, atherosclerosis, strokes and heart attacks, and memory and brain function.

What's the Best Form of Alpha Lipoic Acid?

Actually, there are two forms of Alpha Lipoic and

if you're not vigilant, you could be taking the wrong form. Most supplements are selling a type of Lipoic that consists of BOTH forms of the antioxidant, called S and R. You should be looking for R - Lipoic which is the only form of lipoic that your body synthesizes and can safely metabolize. The label should state that it is ONLY R-Lipoic Acid. Otherwise, you are probably getting the blend, which is only 50% of the R type.

Are there Any Side Effects?

Alpha Lipoic seems to have very few side effects. The recommended dosage is between 50 - 100 mg per day. Higher doses can result in nausea and upset stomach.

People taking medication to lower blood sugar (diabetics), should only take it under a doctor's supervision. Alpha Lipoic may help with blood sugar control and may interfere with the medication.

According to research, alpha lipoic can change thyroid levels. It may have the same effect on humans. People taking thyroid medications such as levothyroxine should be monitored by their healthcare provider.

As always, you should check with your physician before taking any supplements and also look into hormone and vitamin deficiency testing.

Article Source: http://www.upublish.info

About the Author:
GiGi Konwin
This is the first in a series of articles on anti aging supplements. To get future articles and a copy of the free book Healthy Aging, go to Anti Aging Updates