Alpha Lipoic Acid Supports Blood Sugar Balancing

A recent study reports that alpha lipoic acid supports normal blood sugar metabolism. Alpha lipoic acid is a potent antioxidant that is unique in that it is both water and fat-soluble. This allows it to function throughout the body. This naturally-occurring compound is a cofactor for several enzymes involved in glucose metabolism and promotes the uptake of glucose by cells.

Fifty-seven subjects with suboptimal blood sugar metabolism were supplemented with 300 mg alpha lipoic acid per day or a placebo for 2 months duration. The subjects were evaluated for levels of fasting blood sugar, 2-hour post-prandial (after eating) blood sugar, serum insulin, and activity of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase at the beginning of the study and again after the supplementation period.

The study found that alpha lipoic acid supplementation enhanced normal blood sugar metabolism and lowered the activity of glutathione peroxidase compared to the placebo group. Additionally, in the group supplemented with alpha lipoic acid, there was significant enhancement of insulin sensitivity and blood sugar metabolism after 2 months of supplementation compared to levels at the beginning of the study.

The study authors concluded that this study supports the use of alpha lipoic acid for normal blood sugar metabolism.

Reference:

Ansar H, Mazloom Z, Kazemi F, Hejazi N. Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on blood glucose, insulin resistance and glutathione peroxidase of type 2 diabetic patients. Saudi Med J. 2011 Jun;32(6):584-8.