Best Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplements Reviews & Ratings
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Alpha Lipoic Acid is naturally synthesized in the body but not in sufficient amounts. We can obtain it from food, especially meat from organ tissues. It is also in small quantities in some fruits and vegetables.
- Doctor's Best
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Our rating - Good Results
- Price: See Here
- Superior Labs
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Our rating - Purity
- Price: See Here
- Nutricost
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Our rating - Affordable
- Price: See Here
Use of Alpha Lipoic Acid commenced between the 1930s and 1950s when scientists isolated it from a potato growth factor. The scientists involved realized that the factor was essential in the growth of a certain bacteria. It is in later years that it was discovered that Alpha Lipoic Acid is an antioxidant and that it plays a role in Kreb’s Cycle. This cycle is a series of chemical reactions in aerobic metabolism that leads to release of stored energy from carbs, fats, and proteins.
Today, it is marketed as an antioxidant and is licensed in Germany to be used as a treatment for diabetic neuropathy.
R-alpha-Lipoic Acid (R-ALA) and S-alpha Lipoic Acid (S-ALA)
Alpha-lipoic Acid nutritional supplements are typically sold as either R-ALA alone or as a mixture of S-ALA and R-ALA. The naturally occurring form of Alpha Lipoic Acid is the R- type while the S- is the is a synthetic form. Most of the products that you will find in the market are a mixture of both. The two forms have different biological activities and questions arise on which one is better than the other. We cannot pin that one is more effective than the other, but most of the previous scientific studies were done using the S form since it’s the one that was more readily available.
The natural form is responsible for most of the benefits especially the role of co-functioning for mitochondrial regulation of energy production. However, when the R form is separated from the S form, it tends to be physically unstable, and when stored in a place above room temperature, it weakens to an insoluble compound. That is the reason that most products have combined the two forms and if the R form is alone, it must be stabilized.
10 Best Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplements
1. Doctor's Best
Features/Specifications
- Has 600mg of Alpha Lipoic Acid
- Other ingredients include modified microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, magnesium silicate, and magnesium stearate (vegetable source)
- Non-GMO
- Free of gluten and soy
- Suitable for a vegan diet
- Each bottle has 60 capsules
Directions for use:
Take one to two capsules daily or as advised by a physician. Preferably, should be taken in between meals.
Price/Value
Doctor’s Best product is reasonably priced considering that it has tablets that can last you for up to two months and also, that it is a natural product that is more readily absorbed and more stable than others.
Verdict
Doctor’s Best supplements are not only well-priced but also do what they are meant to do. From the user reviews and clinical studies done, the results of the tablets are clearly evident if used alongside other medications prescribed by a physician or a nutritionist. Moreover, they are easily absorbed by the body and have fewer side effects.
- Is a powder in a capsule, so can be added to food or fluids
- Results are seen within a short period of use
- Minimal side effects
- Easily absorbed from the digestive tract
- Causes a burning sensation
- Powder form easily solidifies
2. Superior Labs
Features/Specifications
- Has 600mg of Alpha Lipoic Acid
- Inactive ingredients are vegetable capsule and natural rice flour
- GMP and FDA compliant
- Has undergone third-party tests for quality
- Free of artificial additives
- Non-GMO
- Each bottle has 120 vegetable capsules
Directions for use:
for adults, take one tablet daily. If you experience any abdominal discomfort, take the capsules together with food.
Price/Value
These are slightly in the higher price range, but it would be prudent to consider that each package has a supply of about four months. Also, consider that the quality of these tablets is unquestionable as they have undergone third-party testing.
Verdict
The supplements are superior to the rest due to their quality. They may need you to spend a little more, but you will have peace of mind knowing that you are buying a product that is safe and made in approved facilities. Furthermore, each bottle has 120 tablets which are more than most other products.
- Has undergone independent purity tests
- Capsules are pure with no artificial additives
- Suitable for a vegetarian diet
- Effects seen within a short time
- Effective for neuropathic pain
- Quality is uncompromised
- Has a strong odor
3. Nutricost
Features/Specifications
- Made in the USA
- Each capsule is 300mg of Alpha Lipoic Acid
- Non-GMO
- Gluten free
- Inactive ingredients include gelatin, rice flour, calcium silicate, silicon dioxide, and magnesium stearate
- Each bottle has 240 capsules fit for 120 servings
Directions for use:
take two capsules one to two times daily with food. Should only be taken by adults.
Price/Value
The product is very affordable considering that it comes as a package of 240 capsules that are 120 servings. This quantity can last you for about four months if you are taking the minimum dosage, which is what is recommended.
Verdict
These are effective and yet very affordable. From the user reviews, it is undoubted that this product does what it is supposed to, especially in dealing with neuropathic pain. You may experience some abdominal discomfort when taking it, but this can be avoided by taking the supplements with food.
- Has many tablets
- Affordable and effective
- Non-GMO
- High quality
- Free of gluten
- Large tablets
4. Dr. Danielle
Features/Specifications
- Contains both R-Alpha Lipoic Acid and S-Alpha Lipoic Acid
- Available as a vegetable capsule
- Suitable for vegetarians
- No artificial additives
- The only inactive ingredient is the vegetable capsule
- Each package has 120 capsules
Directions for use:
take one capsule daily or as directed by a healthcare provider
Price/Value
Dr. Danielle’s supplement is in the higher price range. However, it is worth buying considering that product is pure Alpha Lipoic Acid with no fillers, binders or artificial additives. In addition, it contains both S and R forms, making it very easy to absorb and metabolize.
Verdict
This product may be pricey, but its quality speaks volume. It is a pure form that is in both the S and R forms. It has minimal side effects since it has no artificial additives. It is a great value product that is worth your money.
- Contains both S and R form of Lipoic acid
- Easily absorbed and effective
- Small easy to swallow capsules
- No artificial additives
- Suitable for vegetarians
- No fillers and binders
- Pricey
5. Pure Encapsulations
Features/Specifications
- Are in tablet form
- Each tablet is 200mg
- Active ingredient is Alpha Lipoic Acid
- Inactive ingredients include hypoallergenic plant fiber (cellulose), ascorbyl palmitate, vegetarian capsule (cellulose)
- Each bottle has 60 tablets
Recommended dose:
take 1 to 4 tablets per day, preferably with meals
Price/Value
This option is quite pricey, but it is worth considering if you want or you have a prescription in low dosage. A lot of work has also gone into ensuring that it is a pure product that is hypoallergenic and has no artificial additives.
Verdict
Thesetablets may cost you more, but you will be sure that you are taking a product that is safe, pure and has minimal side effects. Sometimes you have to spend more to get quality, and in most instances, a lot of expenses have gone into delivering an effective and safe product.
- Has a smaller dose
- Hypoallergenic
- Suitable for vegetarians
- No added fillers
- Easy to swallow
- Pricey
6. Jarrow Formulas
Features/Specifications
- Contains both R-ALA and d-biotin
- Is in capsule form
- Active ingredients are R-Alpha Lipoic Acid 100mg and d-Biotin 150mg
- Inactive ingredients include cellulose, calcium phosphate, silicon dioxide, and magnesium stearate (vegetable source).
- Each bottle has 60 capsules
Dosage recommendation:
Take one capsule per day or as recommended by your doctor.
Price/Value
The product is reasonably priced considering that the tablets are made from the stabilized R-form which has better bioavailability, and biotin, a universal antioxidant. One bottle has a supply of capsules that can last you for two months.
Verdict
This option is not only a trusted brand but also a superior supplement. It has enhanced bioavailability, meaning that most of it will be metabolized and availed to the tissues. Also, it is the stabilized form that is more heat and shelf stable.
- Bio-enhanced for superior bioavailability in the body
- Available in small doses
- Heat and shelf stable
- Has biotin
- Suitable for vegetarians
- Easy to swallow
- Can cause stomach discomfort
7. Best Naturals
Features/Specifications
- Made in the USA
- Processed in an FDA approved facility under GMP standards
- Each capsule has 600mg of Alpha Lipoic Acid as the active ingredient
- Inactive ingredients are rice flour, gelatin, vegetable cellulose, vegetable magnesium stearate, and silica
- Free of preservatives
- Safe from allergens like egg, soy, gluten, lactose, and fish
- Each bottle has 240 capsules
Recommended intake:
take one capsule one to two times daily with meals or as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Price/Value
For 240 capsules, it is unquestionable that the product is reasonably priced. This supply can last for about eight months if you are taking the minimum dosage.
Verdict
For the great price, efficiency, quality, and safety of this product, we are convinced that it will most likely meet your health demands. Moreover, if you have any gluten, soybean, egg protein, fish, peanut or lactose sensitivity, you can take this product comfortably without worrying about an allergic reaction.
- Has very many tablets in one bottle
- High quality and effective
- Reasonably priced
- Free of potential allergens
- Highly potent
- Prone to causing heartburn due to the high dose
Difficult to swallow
8. Source Naturals
Features/Specifications
- Time-release type for extended action
- Is in tablet form
- Has both Alpha Lipoic Acid and calcium as the active ingredients
- Inactive ingredients include microcrystalline cellulose, dibasic calcium phosphate, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, magnesium stearate and colloidal silicon dioxide,.
- Each bottle has 120 tablets
- Each tablet is 300mg in strength
Directions for use:
take two tablets daily. Can be taken with or without food. However, if the tablets cause abdominal discomfort, take with food. The tablets should not be crashed as they are made specially to be absorbed slowly.
Price/Value
Source Naturals product is fairly priced considering that each bottle has 120 tablets that have prolonged effects that are delivered in smaller and safer doses.
Verdict
This is a good product to buy especially if you are dealing with complications of diabetes. Since it has a prolonged effect, it prevents spikes and crashes of blood sugar at a constant rate. In addition, it has calcium as an active ingredient. A study published in PubMed showed that this combination is effective against cancer cell proliferation. Though the study was on mouse cancer models and a clinical trial is still warranted, it is a big plus for this product.
- Has a prolonged action
- Hypoallergenic
- Low in dosage
- Minimal side effects
- Combined with calcium
- The tablets are large
9. Simply Nature
Features/Specifications
- Is in both S-ALA and R-ALA forms
- Is in a capsule preparation
- Suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets
- The only inactive ingredient is the vegetable capsule
- Each capsule has a strength of 600mg, S-ALA 300mg, and R-ALA 300mg
- Has enhanced bioavailability
- No binders, fillers or artificial additives
- Each bottle has 120 tablets
Directions for dosage:
take one capsule per day or as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Price/Value
Simply Nature supplement is moderately priced but worth considering if you want a product that is high in dosage, has no artificial fillers and is easily utilized by the body tissues.
Verdict
R- Alpha Lipoic Acid is better absorbed and utilized by the body. Simply Nature supplement has both forms, making it superior to other products that only have the S-ALA form. Once the capsules are in the gastrointestinal tract, they are easily taken up by the target tissues and used maximumly for the intended purpose. When buying a nutritional supplement, the expectation is that most of it will be absorbed and used for the right purpose. Simply Nature product meets this expectation, and for this reason it is worth buying.
- Both in R -ALA and S-ALA forms
- Has enhanced bioavailability
- Free of artificial additives
- Suitable for vegan/vegetarian diets
- No fillers and binders
- Easy to swallow
- Highly likely to cause abdominal discomfort
10. NOW Foods
Features/Specifications
- Is a combination of Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamins E, and C
- Is in capsule form
- Is a powerful antioxidant because of its formulation
- Suitable for a vegetarian diet
- Inactive ingredients include rice flour, cellulose, silica, and magnesium stearate (vegetable source).
- Contains a soy derivative.
- Free of sugar, salt, yeast, wheat, gluten, milk, egg, shellfish, and preservatives.
- Each bottle has 120 tablets
Recommended use:
take one to two capsules daily, preferably with food.
Price/Value
Now Foods product is inexpensive and incredibly easy on your budget. The price is unbeatable and yet it is a quality product with remarkable benefits. Moreover, its supply can last you for about four months.
Verdict
As an antioxidant, this product is a very powerful one- the combination of Alpha Lipoic Acid with Vitamins C and E boosts its actions significantly. The best thing about it is that it does not only have these amazing benefits, but the price is also very friendly. For these reasons, the supplement is an excellent product that stands out from the rest.
- Combined with Vitamins C and E
- Powerful metabolic antioxidant
- In low dosage
- Minimum side effects
- Free of artificial additives
- Easy to swallow
- Does not have a strong unpleasant smell
- Affordable
- May cause insomnia
- Contains a soy derivative (some people are sensitive to it)
Criteria for Product Evaluation
The market niche of nutritional supplements has hundreds and hundreds of products, and still, there are new manufacturers and distributors each day. Getting the right product in such a situation may not be an easy task especially if you are doing it for the first time. You may experience frustration severally by spending your money on products that do not work as good as you want. Getting the right product is critical, particularly if you have a medical condition that can worsen if you do not get it right. We have done a comprehensive review of the ten top products that we are sure will meet your nutritional and medical needs. This is the criteria that we used to pick the products.
Product reviews and ratings
Sometimes manufacturers and distributors may mislead you with their label claims and enticing advertisements. For some of them, making sales and profits is their priority. One of the best ways to gauge the effectiveness of a product is by checking what previous users have to say about that specific item. We first went through customer satisfaction surveys and online reviews. We were careful to only include reviews from verified customers. We chose products that had the highest ratings and positive reviews on efficacy.
Product testing
Another way to assess a product is to subject it to independent testing. We picked products that had undergone independent testing to evaluate purity, potency, and safety. Some of the products on the list have been used in clinical trials and proven to be effective.
Safety of ingredients
For a product to be safe, it has to be made in a regulated facility under the General Manufacturing Practices. The products on our list are regulated and approved for distribution. We also considered non-GMO and hypoallergenic products. For vegetarians, we also included products that are only sourced from plant sources. Keep an eye on the ingredients of each product (for every product, we have listed both the active and inactive ingredients), to identify whether there is any constituent that you may be sensitive to.
Manufacturer’s reputation
Good manufacturers adhere to the highest possible standards to ensure quality and efficiency of their products. We only included products whose manufacturers meet this expectation and are well known to satisfy their claims. Some of the chosen products have been in the market for a long time and have managed to maintain an excellent reputation. Some of the selected manufacturers have also been producing other first-rate nutritional supplements.
Alpha Lipoic Acid Benefits
Sometimes we take supplements just because our friend, relative or our doctor suggested it, and most of the times, we do not take time to research why they said that tablet is good for our health. Understanding the benefits of a supplement helps you to comprehend how it works and also to know whether it is working or not. In this part of this article, we will comprehensively let you see the benefits of taking Alpha Lipoic Acid.
Generally, this acid is a compound that is an excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. It protects body organs like the brain, liver, and kidneys. Its presence in the mitochondria (the part of the cell that produces energy and regulates metabolism), helps it play the role of controlling blood sugar.
Antioxidant
It works in several ways to exert its antioxidant properties. As a lipoate, it reacts with free radicals associated with cellular damage. It also helps to protect the cells by interacting with Vitamins C and E, which are also proven antioxidants. A product like Now Foods utilizes this combination with these vitamins, to make the supplement even more powerful as an antioxidant. Alpha Lipoic Acid also enhances the activity of glutathione and coenzyme Q10 which are known antiaging and antioxidant compounds. As a result of these actions, it protects the cells from damage and diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
Improve diabetes and diabetes-related complications
One of the most adored roles of Alpha Lipoic Acid in the supplement form is its ability to improve insulin sensitivity and to offer protection against metabolic syndrome. Up to 25% of diabetic patients are likely to develop complications like neuropathic pain, numbness, and eye problems. Alpha Lipoic Acid is both water and fat soluble and thus it can penetrate most tissues including peripheral nerves of the lower limbs and the eyes. Alpha Lipoic Acid acts to prevent oxidative stress caused to these nerves as a result of diabetes.
Neuropathic pain
Neuropathic pain refers to the pain that occurs as a result of damage to the nerves. Normally, it does not respond to the usual painkillers, making its treatment a little bit difficult. The damage to the nerves may be as a result of injuries, burns, pressure and metabolic diseases like diabetes. A systematic review of over 300 studies showed that there is scientific evidence that Alpha Lipoic Acid supplementation is clinically relevant in improving neuropathic pain. These supplements work best when combined with other therapies. For instance, for treatment of neuropathic pain as a result of diabetes, you should continue taking your antidiabetics medication as prescribed by your doctor.
Boost energy and metabolism
Alpha Lipoic Acid is naturally found in mitochondria as a coenzyme that directly affects energy production and glucose metabolism. It uses this mechanism in mitochondria to convert glucose into energy and promote healthy glucose metabolism. This mechanism helps in controlling lipid levels and lowering glucose levels in people with diabetes. Moreover, when it promotes energy production, it boosts metabolism and avails more energy for physical activities and muscle recovery after a workout. ALA lowers blood glucose levels thus if you are taking antidiabetics you should be cautious on your dosages, and you should carefully monitor your blood sugars to prevent hypoglycemia.
Prevents brain damage
Scientific evidence shows that oxidative stress is damaging to the cells of the central nervous system. This damage plays a role in brain aging, degenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s and Huntington disease. Alpha Lipoic Acid can penetrate the cells of the brain to prevent oxidative damage. Therefore, it prevents and slows down brain cells damage. Combination of Alpha Lipoic Acid supplements with NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) has been proven to be effective in prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Dietary sources of Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha Lipoic Acid can be obtained from foods sources such as:
- Kidney
- Liver
- Heart tissue
- Skeletal muscle
- Spinach
- Tomatoes
- Potatoes
- Broccoli
- Brewer’s yeast
Recommended dosage
Recommended doses tend to be in the range of 300mg to 600mg. research suggests that 600mg supplementation for about three weeks is effective for lowering the risk of neuropathy secondary to diabetes and for some patients, doses up to 1800mg have safely been used under supervision. For the purpose of general free-radical protection, studies suggest that 100mg twice per day is enough.
If you decide to use Alpha Lipoic Acid supplements, use it as recommended by your doctor, pharmacist, manufacturer or any other healthcare provider. You should not use more than the recommended dosage. If you feel that a certain dosage is not effective for you, please consult your doctor first before adjusting the dose upwards.
Possible side effects
Alpha Lipoic Acid is safe when taken as directed. However, you may experience some side effects just like any other drugs. Some of the side effects include:
- Nausea
- Skin rash
- Heartburn
- Headache
- Vomiting
For effects related to abdominal discomfort, you may take the supplements together with food to minimize the risk of the effects.
If you are taking insulin or oral antidiabetics, you are at a risk of hypoglycemia. Some of the signs that show you may be having low blood sugar levels include:
- Headache
- Hunger
- Weakness
- Lethargy
- Sweating
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Confusion
Precautions
Use of Alpha Lipoic Acid in the recommended dosages is relatively safe and generally, there are no adverse reactions that have been reported. However, when using Alpha Lipoic Acid together with insulin or other glucose-lowering medications, you should carefully monitor your blood glucose levels since there is a risk of hypoglycemia.
You should avoid itd if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it. Also, if you realize any signs of sensitivity, you should immediately discontinue its use and seek medical help. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty in breathing, hives, rash, rhinitis, difficulty in breathing, swelling of the lips, mouth, and throat.
Use of ALA in pregnancy, when breastfeeding or by children is not encouraged. There is no reliable scientific evidence regarding the safety of the supplements in these conditions. It is therefore not clearly known whether the supplements are safe for the fetus. It is also not known whether it passes to the breast milk and whether it is safe for the nursing baby. If you are pregnant or nursing, you should first seek the help of a specialist. If the benefits outweigh the possible risks, your health care provider will advise on the safest dosage and frequency of the supplements.
In case you have medical conditions like liver disease, thyroid dysfunction and thiamine deficiency, you should first ask your doctor before using the supplements. Although the Alpha Lipoic Acid is helpful in controlling diabetes, you should start using the supplements with the knowledge of your health care provider.
Just like it is a rule to all other medications, if you are taking any other medicines including insulin, oral antidiabetics like metformin, levothyroxine, or chemotherapy, you should first tell your doctor or pharmacist.
Prolonged and high doses of Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplements have been associated with liver damage. Take the supplements in the recommended doses and for the intended period.
Storage
Alpha Lipoic Acid supplements should be stored at room temperature (not higher) to prevent destabilization. They should also be kept away from moisture and out of reach for children.
FAQs
What is Alpha Lipoic Acid?
Alpha Lipoic is a compound that naturally occurs in mitochondria. It is a fat-soluble, organosulfur and vitamin-like compound. It is both water and fat soluble thus when ingested in the body it can enter most of the body tissues. It plays a role in energy production, protecting cell damage and in fat and glucose metabolism.
What are the benefits?
Alpha Lipoic Acid is a universal antioxidant that protects cell damage all over the body, including the nervous system. It protects body organs like the heart, brain, liver, and kidneys. It also prevents diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, retinal damage, and neuropathies.
It also plays a role in regulating blood glucose metabolism and thus plays a great role in the treatment of diabetes and diabetes-related complications. In addition to glucose metabolism, it helps in lowering cholesterol and blood pressure along with other therapies.
How does it work?
As an antioxidant, Alpha Lipoic Acid works by neutralizing free radicals and by enhancing the action of other powerful antioxidants like Vitamins C and E, glutathione, and coenzyme Q10. It aids in control of blood sugar by its action as part of a coenzyme in mitochondria, a cell that is responsible for glucose metabolism and energy production. For those who take it for diabetic neuropathy, it slows down and prevents nerve damage by preventing oxidative stress on neurons.
How much should I take?
If you are taking it as a dietary supplement for antioxidation, 100mg once or twice daily is effective. For neuropathies, 300mg to 600mg is safe, and in some cases, doses of up to 1800mg may be prescribed. However, these statements do not overrule your doctor’s prescription.
Does it have any side effects?
Just like most other drugs and supplements, you can experience some side effects. Some of the effects include a headache, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and skin rash. Most of these effects gradually disappear as you continue taking the supplements. If the effects persist, you should seek medical help.
Can I get it from food?
You can obtain Alpha Lipoic Acid from food though it is usually in small quantities and thus the need for dietary supplementation. Food sources include organ meat (liver, kidney and heart meat), spinach, broccoli, tomatoes, potatoes, beetroot, peas, brussel sprouts, and brewer’s yeast.
Where can I get it from?
You can purchase Alpha Lipoic Acid in stores or online sellers. Buying online gives you the convenience of comparing prices of so many other like products. You will also access user reviews for you to judge the benefits of each and know the ones that meet their label claims. Furthermore, online platforms like Amazon offer friendly purchase, shipping, and return policies.
