How Does Alpha Lipoic Acid Help Control Cholesterol?
Alpha lipoic acid is a strong antioxidant found in the body as well as in certain meat organs; heart, kidney liver and raw foods such as potatoes, spinach, and broccoli. But unfortunately in very low forms.
Its main goal is to transform glucose to energy the body can use in performing various internal functions.
Unlike other known antioxidants, this substance can carry out it's normal activities in both water and fat. So far, alpha lipoic acid has been used to treat a variety of conditions while scientists continue to investigate it's cholesterol lowering properties.
Does Alpha Lipoic Acid Control Cholesterol?
In 2008, scientists researched alpha lipoic acid and it's potential to lower cholesterol. Since high cholesterol and oxidative stress contribute greatly to hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis, alpha lipoic acid was deemed a strong contender in the fight to lower cholesterol. As reported in the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition, it was found to reduce total cholesterol and LDL levels while preventing plaque formation in rabbits with high cholesterol.
This study, among others, has led to an increase in the commercial production of this antioxidant supplement.
Other Common Uses
In addition to reducing high cholesterol, alpha lipoic acid has been used successfully in the treatment of other medical conditions.
- Nerve Pain Neuropathy, also called nerve pain, stems from a variety of medical issues. It can be common in patients with diabetes, cancer, alcoholism and Lyme disease. Because of the healing properties of alpha lipoic acid, it has been given to neuropathy patients to improve symptoms associated with the disorder.
- Free Radicals Like other antioxidants, experts believe alpha lipoic acid fights the advancement of free radicals in the body. Since this antioxidant can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, it may help protect nerve tissue within the cranium. Damage caused by free radicals in the aging process may be reduced with the use of an alpha lipoic acid supplement.
Is It Promising for Cholesterol Patients?
As research continues and new uses are discovered, alpha lipoic acid promises to play a large role in the way science views treatment options for patients with high cholesterol. Since the threat of serious side effects is always a risk when taking prescription medications, many patients with cholesterol problems are looking for a refreshing change.
Consumption of food source alpha lipoic acid does not have a significant effect on lipoic acid plasma levels increases, says the Linus Pauling Institute. That's why supplementation is the only way to obtain therapeutic amounts of this promising key nutrient.
The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center explains the free alpha lipoic acid found in supplements is not bound and easily enters blood plasma.
Maintenance doses range from 10-25mg per day. Hundreds of milligrams per day may be required for more optimal health benefits.
Will this antioxidant be it?
Only time will tell, but what we do know is taking prescription medication can be dangerous. To learn more about the risks of statin drugs, how to avoid them and learn more about alpha lipoic acid, sign up for my free Statins Exposed video series today!
Posted in Home Improvement Post Date 02/01/2021