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Alpha-lipoic acid(ALA) is an antioxidant that is produced by the human body and is found in every body cell. It assists the body in producing ATP from glucose. ATP (adenosine tri-phosphate) is the utilized in the body as the fundamental energy source and all metabolic activities require it. Antioxidants are substances that attack free radicals. Free radicals are harmful waste products created when the body turns food into energy. Free radicals cause chemical reactions that can damage cells in the body, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. They in turn damages the organs of your body and are carcinogenic. ALA has also been shown to be helpful in weight loss. ALA is not normally used for quick weight loss. However, consistent use can result in weight loss along with the other health benefits conveyed by ALA. It will increase the rate the glucose is taken into your cells and increase your metabolic rate. The result is that more energy is used faster in the cells of your body, with fewer calories available for storage as fat. In addition, better metabolism of glucose results in lower blood glucose levels and prevents body fat storage. The decrease in fat storage occurs because inadequate glucose uptake results in increased insulin production. These elevated insulin levels result in fat storage due to the highly anabolic nature of insulin.
Alpha-lipoic acid also assists with a condition known as autonomic neuropathy, which effects the nerves in the heart and other organs. One study found that 73 people with autonomic neuropathy improved when taking 800 mg of alpha-lipoic acid orally compared to placebo.
Alpha-lipoic acid help to reduce blood glucose levels, and its use in destroying free radicals, helps reduce the pain and tingling associated with peripheral nerve damage common in diabetics. Alpha-lipoic acid has been used for years for this purpose in Europe, and at least one study found that intravenous (IV) doses of alpha-lipoic acid helped reduce symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. In a clinical study performed in Europe, 12 subjects with normal blood glucose tolerance constituted a control group. At the end of the treatment period, insulin sensitivity of diabetic patients was significantly increased: short-term oral alpha-lipoic acid treatment increases peripheral insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
It is worth mentioning that alpha-lipoic acid is not the same as alpha linolenic acid, which is an omega-3 fatty acid that may help heart health. Confusion can arise because both are sometimes abbreviated ALA.
Unlike other antioxidants, alpha-lipoic acid is both fat and water soluble. This allows it to be effective in all body spaces. Another benefit of ALA is that it helps regenerate other anti-oxidants after they are depleted subsequent to attacking free radicals. Scientists believe that ALA operates in conjunction with vitamins C and E, and the antioxidant glutathione, recycling them when they're used up.
Numerous studies have been performed indication that ALA has health benefits including enhancing cognition and protecting the nervous system. ALA can also be an useful adjunct in our efforts to achieve rapid weight loss. To see how you can lose weight rapidly visit us at:: quick weight loss To learn how to maintain your losses for the long term go to: how to lose weight
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