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ALA, or alpha-lipoic acid, naturally occurs in the human body and serves essential functions deep at the cellular level, including energy production.
As long as the body remains healthy, it can easily produce all required ALA. However, when there is a low amount of alpha-lipoic acid in the body, it can have unwanted side effects and exacerbate certain medical conditions.
So it is crucial to make sure if you have this issue or not and get it treated as soon as possible.
For decades, doctors and researchers have known that ALA has been highly beneficial for treating various medical conditions, including HIV and diabetes, while enhancing the ability to lose weight.
An Alpha Lipoic acid weight loss program is very beneficial for eliminating unwanted pounds and inches.
Benefits of Alpha-Lipoic Acid for Weight Loss
Act as An Antioxidant
In addition to being a highly effective solution for losing weight, ALA is an effective antioxidant, helping the body safeguard against free radicals known to destroy tissue.
Because of that, many individuals take alpha-lipoic supplements to improve numerous health conditions.
Studies indicate that ALA supplements work better when absorbed on an empty stomach.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
A systematic review and meta-analysis have recognized that ALA has anti-inflammatory properties.
In addition, ALA enhances the ability of the body to metabolize food by converting it into energy.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid, a universal antioxidant, is unique from others because it is both water and fat-soluble.
ALA serves the entire cell, including the fat (lipid) portions such as the cell plasma membrane and the cytoplasm (interior) portion of the cell where water-soluble chemicals are found.
Remove Unwanted fat
Many individuals have been highly successful following an alpha lipoic acid weight loss program. It is more effective and significant when men and women can reduce their caloric intake by 600 calories each day.
Studies indicate that a daily supplement of ALA helps men and women lose unwanted body fat instead of lean muscle mass.
Reducing Signs of Obesity
Alpha-lipoic acid offers significant benefits for individuals that struggle with diabetes and obesity. Because Alpha-lipoic acid has proven advantages over other supplements that include:
Control Blood Sugar Levels
Individuals that are obese tend to have a greater potential risk of developing harmful diabetes.
However, according to research, ALA is known to enhance insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to take up glucose (sugar) from the blood.
Nerve Pain Relief
ALA is known to prevent nerve pain and damage typically associated with mild to severe cases of diabetes, as per research studies.
Age-Related Disease Protection
ALA is highly effective and can make glutathione, the body’s most potent antioxidant.
Scientific research indicates that ALA safeguards the body against heart disease and atherosclerosis, preventing cataracts and reducing the potential of developing Alzheimer’s dementia.
An effective ALA supplement is not a wonder drug. However, as an antioxidant, it discourages the natural aging process and increases the ability of the body to drop unwanted pounds and inches.
It offers significant health benefits through its highly proven fat-burning properties and works well for men and women.
Alpha-Lipoic acids dosage for Weight Loss
As far as the dosage is concerned, it is best to consult the doctor to know the amount of ALA to be taken.
The medication strength you need to take depends on the reason behind taking alpha-lipoic acid.
It is suggested to have 1800 mg/d Alpha-lipoic acid for weight loss in obese people.
According to research, 1800 mg alpha-lipoic acid given to a group lost significantly more weight than the placebo group.
Another research has shown that ALA dosage between 1200 mg per day to 1800 mg per day has significant weight loss.
Alpha-lipoic acids side effects
Although there are no clinical evidence and proof regarding Alpha-lipoic acid side effects, there are some cases where people may face problems like allergies.
So it is recommended to take precautions while using Alpha-lipoic acid in the form of some supplements.
Skin rashes and allergies
Studies suggested that Alpha-lipoic acid’s rare and nondangerous side effects may include:
- Skin rashes
- Allergies
- Hypoglycemia
If the above problems occur, it is generally a sign that the acid’s dosage can be reduced, which may help in eliminating the uncomfortable reactions.
The Alpha-lipoic acid side effects are less significant, but you need to use some caution if you have an allergic reaction.
Thus it is advisable to consult the healthcare practitioner before altering any medication and starting with the nutritional supplement program.
People with pre-existing health conditions need to exercise caution while taking alpha-lipoic acid.
Children and pregnant women
Many case reports have indicated that children are not advised to consume ALA.
But, as per clinical trial, Alpha-Lipoic Acid can effectively reduce weight in obese children and adolescents under the supervision of doctors.
The nursing and pregnant women should consult the doctor before taking Alpha-lipoic acid.
For diabetes patients
Diabetic people who use ALA should carefully monitor their blood sugar levels as the Alpha-lipoic acid supplements may reduce blood glucose levels, as per research studies.
There is even the concern that Alpha-lipoic acid might interfere with chemotherapy and radiation therapy, making such treatments less effective.
At high doses of Alpha-lipoic acid
As per studies, you may experience alpha-lipoic acid side effects at high doses.
The Alpha-lipoic acid side effects may include
- Nausea
- Flatulence
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
Extra consumption of this ALA may lead to a reduction in blood sugar.
Alpha-Lipoic acid may also reduce thyroid hormone levels. And so, it is imperative to get the hormone level monitored carefully if you are taking the ALA supplements and thyroid regulating medication.
At a high dosage, alpha-lipoic acid can lower the body’s minerals.
In one of the studies, iron was shown to reduce considerably. For age-related treatments, Alpha-Lipoic acid may be helpful to lower free radicals production.
Other alpha lipoic acid side effects include stomach pain and backache. People with thyroid difficulties can consider taking just half a 50 mg R Alpha-lipoic acid capsule.
Conclusion
Some natural supplements, over-the-counter products, and prescription medications may even trigger adverse effects with ALA consumption.
So it is wise to check with the physician and know if there can be conflicts with supplements or medications already in the system.
If you experience ill effects after consuming alpha-lipoic acid, stop taking it at once and consult your doctor as soon as possible.
