What do alpha lipoic acid and insulin resistance have to do with one another? Studies on animals have shown that alphlipoic acid reduces insulin resistance. Although it has much potential, studies on humans have not yet been confirmed, according to Everydayhealth.com. It has been shown to work as follows:
- High blood sugar levels increase oxidative stress
- This causes an increased concentration of free radicals
- This in turn causes insulin resistance
- Alpha lipoic acid, an antioxidant, eliminates free radicals and in turn reduces insulin resistance
One study, described by the National Institutes of Health, was performed on obese rats. They found that alpha lipoic acid reduced insulin resistance, increased fatty acid oxidation, and activated protein kinase (a major regulator of cellular energy metabolism) in the skeletal muscle. These results suggest that improvement on alpha lipoic acid insulin resistance.
Though nothing has been proven, people with diabetes or metabolic syndrome seem to do amazingly well when taking alpha lipoic acid supplements. This is largely because it enhances insulin sensitivity, but for many other reasons as well. Be sure to speak to your doctor if you begin taking any type of supplements though, as some supplements can interfere with your medications. If you want to use alpha lipoic acid for insulin resistance, it can be derived from many fruits and vegetables as well.
Various Benefits of Alpha Lipoic Acid
The effects of alpha lipoic acid on insulin resistance could be extremely beneficial to type 2 diabetics in the future. It has been found to have many other beneficial functions as well. For example, it has the ability to regenerate other antioxidants in the body such as vitamins C, E, and glutathione. It also has been found to reduce inflammation and it helps the body tor process heavy metals. In addition, alpha lipoic acid has successfully been used “intravenously to reverse ischemia reperfusion injuries by injecting it right after a heart attack or stroke” according to the Huffington Post.
It is important to remember that high doses of antioxidant supplements do not necessarily lead to more benefits. There comes a point where any substance can become dangerous. If you decide to use alpha lipoic acid for insulin resistance or to aid in any other conditions, be sure to ask your doctor for dosage recommendations. No more than 10 to 50 mg a day, for long term use, is normally recommended.
