
In short, it seems that alpha-lipoic acid has just a slight effect on weight loss in humans. In the same analysis, alpha-lipoic acid did not significantly affect waist circumference.Īnother analysis of 12 studies found that people who took alpha-lipoic acid lost an average of 2.8 pounds (1.27 kg) more than those taking a placebo over an average of 23 weeks ( 9). However, human studies show that alpha-lipoic acid only slightly impacts weight loss.Īn analysis of 12 studies discovered that people who took an alpha-lipoic acid supplement lost an average of 1.52 pounds (0.69 kg) more than those taking a placebo over an average of 14 weeks ( 8). Thus, animals who took alpha-lipoic acid burned more calories ( 6, 7). On the other hand, suppressing AMPK activity may increase the number of calories your body burns at rest. When AMPK is more active, it may increase feelings of hunger. Research has shown that alpha-lipoic acid may affect weight loss in several ways.Īnimal studies indicate that it can reduce the activity of the enzyme AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is located in your brain’s hypothalamus ( 4, 5). It’s made in the mitochondria of cells but also found in foods and supplements. SummaryĪlpha-lipoic acid is an organic compound that works as an antioxidant. That said, supplements can pack up to 1,000 times more alpha-lipoic acid than food sources ( 3). That’s why many turn to certain foods or supplements to optimize their intake.Īnimal products like red meat and organ meats are great sources of alpha-lipoic acid, but plant foods like broccoli, tomatoes, spinach, and Brussels sprouts also contain it. Humans only produce alpha-lipoic acid in small amounts.
#ALPHA LIPOIC ACID BENEFITS SKIN#
The antioxidant properties of alpha-lipoic acid have been linked to several benefits, including lower blood sugar levels, reduced inflammation, slowed skin aging, and improved nerve function. Meanwhile, most other antioxidants are either water- or fat-soluble ( 2).įor instance, vitamin C is only water-soluble, while vitamin E is only fat-soluble. What’s more, it has powerful antioxidant properties.Īlpha-lipoic acid is both water- and fat-soluble, which allows it to work in every cell or tissue in the body.

It’s made inside the mitochondrion - also known as the powerhouse of cells - where it helps enzymes turn nutrients into energy ( 1). Alpha-lipoic acid is an organic compound found in all human cells.
