ALA is one of the body's key endogenous compounds used to fight free radicals and produce energy. It is the precursor of dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA), a powerful antioxidant that is formed from ALA in the body. DHLA is known as the 'universal antioxidant' because it can neutralize free radicals in both water and fat areas of cells.

ALA is not only effective on its own, but also has the power to regenerate and lengthen the life span of other important antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and glutathione. Glutathione is the body's primary antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage. Both glutathione and ALA have been shown to be particularly beneficial for maintaining vision health by preventing oxidative damage to the delicate structures within the eye, such as the macula.

Alpha lipoic acid also functions as an important coenzyme in one of the body's metabolic pathways that converts food into energy. It is essential for the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose. ALA helps the body utilize glucose more efficiently, by stimulating glucose transporters and inhibiting glycation. In this way, scientists believe it may promote healthy, balanced blood sugar levels, and increase the amount of glucose available to cells for energy.

Alpha lipoic acid has another advantage: its small molecular size. This allows it to pass easily through cell membranes and into the nucleus of cells, protecting vital cell components from free radical damage. Although some ALA is produced in the liver, certain people may need more for optimal health.

Alpha Lipoic Acid is:

• A precursor of DHLA, the 'universal antioxidant'
• A powerful antioxidant enhancer
• Crucial for energy production in the body
• Particularly beneficial for vision health*