Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant that’s earned a place among Dr. Terry Shintani’s favorite “super nutrients” — and the research behind it backs that up.
Blood sugar and blood pressure
ALA is well known for helping control blood sugar, and clinical research also supports a blood-pressure-lowering effect: a 2023 systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that ALA supplementation significantly reduced blood pressure in adults.
Diabetic neuropathy
ALA has one of the strongest evidence bases of any natural compound for diabetic neuropathy. Multiple clinical trials and meta-analyses have found it helps prevent and treat nerve damage in people with diabetes, largely attributed to its ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation affecting the nerves.
Cholesterol
Research has also linked ALA supplementation to improvements in cholesterol levels.
Early cancer research
More recent laboratory (in vitro) research suggests ALA may slow the growth of several types of cancer cells, including breast, colon, and other cell lines, and some studies suggest it may work synergistically with chemotherapy drugs. It’s important to note this research is still in early, preclinical stages — these are lab and cell-culture studies, not evidence that ALA treats cancer in humans.
Where to find it — and typical dosage
ALA is found naturally in foods like carrots, spinach, beets, and broccoli, and is also available as a supplement. A typical dose used in studies is around 600 mg, up to three times per day — but check with your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re managing diabetes or take blood sugar or blood pressure medication.
For more tips on controlling blood sugar naturally, get Dr. Shintani’s free eBook, Health Secrets, at peacediet.org.
Sources: Alpha-lipoic acid and blood pressure — systematic review/meta-analysis, Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 2023; Efficacy of alpha-lipoic acid in diabetic neuropathy — PubMed; Lipoic acid synergizes with antineoplastic drugs in colorectal cancer, MDPI Cells, 2019; NLM Native Voices