alpha lipoic acid

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a sulfur-containing compound the body produces naturally and that also occurs in some foods. It takes part in how cells turn nutrients into energy and can act as an antioxidant. As a dietary supplement, it has been studied most often for possible effects related to diabetes, including blood sugar, blood fats (lipids), and diabetes-related complications.

The overall evidence is limited and mixed, and it does not establish that ALA works for diabetes or its complications. According to NCCIH, a 2019 review of 10 studies (553 participants) found that alpha-lipoic acid worked no better than a placebo for lowering blood sugar, cholesterol, or triglycerides, and that supplementation did not improve kidney dysfunction (diabetic nephropathy) in people with diabetes. Findings for diabetic neuropathy are inconsistent: one review reported symptom improvement in only 3 of 8 studies (the other 5 found none), while a separate review suggested ALA might help reduce nerve pain. For diabetic macular edema, a cited study found no statistically significant difference between ALA and placebo. NCCIH states that there is not enough scientific evidence to show that alpha-lipoic acid, or any dietary supplement, can help manage or prevent type 2 diabetes.

There is no established standard supplement dose. Some studies have used roughly 600 mg per day, but this does not amount to a proven effective dose. A supplement is not a replacement for prescribed diabetes treatment, and because ALA may affect blood sugar, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting it, especially if you take any medications or have a health condition.

NCCIH notes that a 2020 review of 71 studies (4,749 participants) reported alpha-lipoic acid appeared safe when used as studied, both in healthy people and in people with certain conditions (including cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, and diabetes). Even so, it should not replace standard medical care for diabetes. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who have any health condition, should speak with a clinician before using it.

Per NCCIH, the side effects most commonly reported with alpha-lipoic acid include headache, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting.

Because alpha-lipoic acid has been studied for possible effects on blood sugar, it could in principle add to the blood-sugar-lowering action of diabetes medications, raising a theoretical risk of low blood sugar. The cited NCCIH pages do not detail specific drug interactions, so check with a pharmacist or doctor before combining it with any medication.