Lipoic acid | R-Lipoic acid | alpha-Lipoic acid | α-Lipoic acid | ALA | Thioctic acid
Lipoic acid is an important mitochondrial compound, because it’s used in helper molecules (i.e., enzymes) for the metabolic processes that convert food energy into cellular energy (ATP). Lipoic acid is often characterized as an antioxidant, though in living systems it plays a larger role supporting the body’s own antioxidant defenses, upregulating important cellular defense molecules like glutathione and preserving Nrf2 function. It’s also involved in cellular signaling, especially with AMPK, considered a master cellular energy sensor and regulator. Lipoic acid was originally discovered in the 1930’s and has been used as a nutrient since the late 1950’s. While lipoic acid is found in many foods, amounts obtained in the diet are very low. The richest food sources are organ meats (e.g., kidney, liver) and vegetables such as spinach and broccoli. Mitochondria can make lipoic acid starting from a medium chain fat called caprylic acid (also called octanoic acid), which is found in some foods (e.g., milk, coconut) and can also be made in the body. Many animals and human studies report functional benefits when diets are supplemented with extra lipoic acid. This suggests there are circumstances where the amount made inside cells and supplied by foods in the diet are insufficient to optimize health.
We use Bio-Enhanced®, Stabilized R-Lipoic Acid (sodium R-alpha-lipoic acid), the most bioavailable and potent form of lipoic acid.
Created by GeroNova Research, Inc., a leader in lipoic acid research.
Most lipoic acid in vitamins is a 50/50 mix of the R-(natural) and S-(unnatural) enantiomers. Only the R-lipoic acid is found in our body and used as a cofactor in human enzymes.
Supplementation with Bio-Enhanced®, Stabilized R-Lipoic Acid results in much higher lipoic acid blood levels compared to lipoic acid.[1]
Bio-Enhanced is a registered trademark of GeroNova Research, Inc.
Lipoic acid is generally considered to be dose-dependent (see Neurohacker Dosing Principles) in the range it’s commonly dosed. Higher supplemental doses are typically used when it is given as a single nutrient, while much lower doses are used when it is given in combination with other mitochondrial nutrients (e.g., CoQ10, PQQ, L-carnitine). Lower doses can also be used when using the more bioavailable stabilized R-lipoic acid or when combining lipoic acid with other ingredients that act as bioenhancers, such as piperine from black pepper.
Mitochondrial biogenesis
Mitochondrial structure and function
Signaling pathways
Metabolism
Antioxidant defenses
Protective effects
Healthy aging and longevity
Circadian rhythms
Synergies
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.