Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)
is a natural antioxidant. It is gradually becoming recognized for its unique
abilities in the therapy and prevention of a broad range of diseases. Lipoic
acid (LA) is a natural antioxidant. It is gradually becoming recognized for its
unique abilities in the therapy and prevention of a broad range of diseases. In
addition to antioxidant properties, LA helps the body use glucose; hence its
potential for helping people with diabetes.
An antioxidant
is any chemical, natural or synthetic, that neutralizes toxins or free radicals,
thus protecting our cells from damage. A free radical is an unstable molecule
with at least one unpaired electron. It reacts by trying to steal an electron
from a neighboring molecule, causing damage in the process. Cigarette smoke,
fried foods, ozone, excessive sun exposure, car exhaust, and air pollution are
common causes of free radicals.
It is believed that aging
and many degenerative conditions are due to free-radical damage to cells. For
instance, if a free radical damages our DNA, the eventual consequences could be
a higher risk of cancer. If the damage occurs in arteries that supply blood to
the heart, it could eventually lead to a heart attack. Thus, it has been
proposed that the intake of antioxidants could potentially slow down this
damage.
