The Powerful Antioxidant Known As Lipoic Acid

Lipoic Acid Benefits

Over the last several years, people have become more and more familiar with the health value of antioxidants. Antioxidants may be among the most important chemicals for helping to ensure long lasting and vigorous health well into old age.

lipoic-acidAntioxidants are a natural way of fighting free radicals. These molecules have an unpaired electron that can break loose and damage the body’s cells. When this happens, the affected cell can be severely harmed, with several possible consequences.

The death of a cell in this manner can inhibit the body from generating a new cell that contains all the necessary DNA information. Free radicals are therefore believed to be a significant part of the aging process.

Likewise, the cellular damage caused by free radicals may be a significant factor in the genesis of many forms of cancer. To counteract this damage, it’s important to seek out strong sources of antioxidants, including lipoic acid.

Finding Alpha Lipoic Acid In The Human Diet

Like many powerful antioxidants, lipoic acid can be derived from a healthy diet. It is present in animals’ livers and kidneys, as well as in green leafy vegetables like spinach. It is also present in potatoes. Lipoic acid is also generated in laboratories and features prominently in a wide range of medications.

What Else Does Lipoic Acid Do?

In addition to working as an antioxidant, lipoic acid can assist the body in regulating the amounts of certain vitamins. For example, it is helpful for ensuring the body makes full and proper use of vitamin E and vitamin C, both of which support the immune system and general health.

Lipoic acid is used by the body in some of its metabolic processes, specifically when carbohydrates have to be broken down. Breaking down complex carbohydrates helps create the energy that other organs use for their basic functioning.

Lipoic acid has been used with great success in the treatment of cataracts, glaucoma, and traumatic damage to some parts of the eyes.

In medication, it can serve any or all of these functions.