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Question:
I have noticed more and more articles on the benefits of lipoic acid. What is your opinion of it?
Answer:
Lipoic acid (also known thioctic acid) is a sulfur-containing vitamin-like substance that plays an important role as in two vital energy-producing reactions involved in the production of cellular energy (ATP). Lipoic acid is not considered a vitamin because it is thought that either the body can usually manufacture sufficient levels or it is acquired in sufficient quantities from food. However, like COQ10 and carnitine, a relative deficiency can occur in certain situations and lipoic acid supplementation exerts benefits beyond its role in normal metabolism. Lipoic acid is an effective antioxidant. It is unique in that it is effective against both water and fat soluble free radicals. The principle uses of lipoic acid are in the treatment of diabetes and AIDS. Other possible uses include liver cirrhosis, heart disease, cataracts, heavy metal toxicity, and detoxification support.
There are many questions to be answered regarding lipoic acid supplementation such as "How does the antioxidant protection offered by lipoic acid supplementation compare to other (less expensive) antioxidants?" Until these questions are answered I am reluctant to recommend lipoic acid supplementation except in diabetics who have not fully responded to other nutritional support or who are exhibiting signs of diabetic neuropathy and in patients with cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis C, and AIDS.
For general antioxidant support the recommended dosage is 20 to 50 mg. For more therapeutic applications the recommended dosage is 100 to 200 mg three times daily. Lipoic acid supplementation appears to be very safe.
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