Alpha Lipoic Acid for Better Blood Sugar Control

We've talked in the past (and in this issue) about alpha lipoic acid (ALA) being very important for nerve pain — especially diabetic nerve pain, at a daily dosage of 300 milligrams. But for people with type 2 diabetes, it turns out that ALA is good for more than diabetes-damaged nerves.

The new study, from researchers in Thailand, shows that ALA can improve long-term blood sugar levels (HA1c) in people with diabetes — and the higher the dose of ALA, the lower the blood sugar, with 1,200 mg a day doing the most good. The study also showed ALA helped cut down on the oxidation of blood fats, the process behind artery-clogging atherosclerosis. That's important, because heart disease and stroke are the leading killers of people with diabetes. For nerve pain, the 300 mg 2x day is optimal, and a good dose for those with diabetes.

Reference

"Glycemic and oxidative status of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus following oral administration of alpha lipoic acid: a randomized, double-blinded placebo-controlled study," Porasuphatana S, et al, Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2012;21(1):12-21.