Alpha Lipoic Acid for Fat Loss

Alpha lipoic acid is a chemical that is also called thioctic acid. The chemical is synthesised as part of the normal metabolism of the cell. Alpha lipoic acid has a number of cellular roles, but these roles generally revolve around it being a strong reducing agent. Alpha lipoic acid has been claimed to have antidiabetic properties on account of its ability to improve insulin sensitivity in humans and animals. Studies show that alpha lipoic acid is an effective fat loss agent and supplementation of alpha lipoic acid may improve fat loss in comparison to a placebo. For example, meta-analysis of weight loss studies show that alpha lipoic acid was associated with 1.27 kg greater fat loss compared to a placebo. The highest quality alpha lipoic acid supplements possess the R-form of alpha lipoic acid, whereas lower quality supplements contain a mixture of R-form and S-form. Alpha lipoic acid is also a highly beneficial antioxidant and may significantly improve general health on account of improving the reducing potential of cells. 

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Kucukgoncu, S., Zhou, E., Lucas, K.B. and Tek, C. 2017. Alpha‐lipoic acid (ALA) as a supplementation for weight loss: results from a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials. Obesity Reviews. 18(5): 594-601

About Robert Barrington

Robert Barrington is a writer, nutritionist, lecturer and philosopher.
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