ALA

About ALA

Alpha-lipoic acid is a sulfur-containing compound that functions as a cofactor for mitochondrial enzymes and is both water- and fat-soluble, giving it unique antioxidant versatility. It regenerates other antioxidants (vitamins C, E, glutathione, CoQ10). R-lipoic acid is the biologically active enantiomer with ~2x the bioavailability of racemic ALA; most supplements contain the racemic (R/S) mixture, where the 50% inactive S-form competes with R-ALA for absorption. Na-RALA (sodium R-lipoate) is a stabilized salt form of R-ALA with improved shelf life and solubility — standard R-ALA can degrade and polymerize in heat. Strong clinical evidence for diabetic neuropathy and glucose metabolism. Take on an empty stomach for best absorption. No established RDA/UL.

What ALA supports

• 🩸Supports insulin sensitivity and healthy glucose metabolism
• 🧬Universal antioxidant — works in both water and fat compartments
• ♻️Regenerates vitamins C, E, glutathione, and CoQ10
• 🧠Strong evidence for supporting nerve health and reducing neuropathy symptoms

How much ALA to take

Clinical studies typically use 300–600 mg of ALA. Most studies use 300–600 mg/day of racemic ALA. R-lipoic acid (the natural form) is more bioavailable and used at lower doses (100–300 mg). Doses up to 1200 mg/day used in diabetic neuropathy research.

Effective range

300–600 mg

Forms of ALA compared

• R-alpha lipoic acid (R-ALA)Premium
  Biologically active stereoisomer — what your mitochondria actually use.
• Sodium R-lipoate (Na-RALA)Premium
  Stabilized R-ALA salt; far better shelf-life than free R-ALA.
• Racemic alpha lipoic acidBudget
  50/50 R + S isomer mix; the S half is inactive ballast.
• Thioctic acid (racemic)Budget
  Synonym for ALA; almost always racemic unless specifically labelled R-form.

Clinical evidence

Strong clinical evidence. Strong clinical data for diabetic neuropathy and glucose metabolism across multiple trials