BioStacks
Best for
Ingredients (1)
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
100%Dose
600 mg
Target
300–600 mg
Form
Budget
Other Ingredients (13)
Polysorbate 80Emulsifier
Chassaing et al. 2015 (Nature, PMID 25731162) tested polysorbate 80 directly and showed it thinned the gut mucus barrier, altered microbiota composition, and induced low-grade inflammation and metabolic syndrome in mice. The strongest human evidence is for a related emulsifier rather than polysorbate 80 itself: Chassaing 2022 (Gastroenterology, PMID 34774538) was a controlled human feeding RCT of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) that found microbial encroachment into the mucus layer — polysorbate 80 has not been tested in an equivalent human trial. In vitro work (e.g. Roberts 2010) shows polysorbate 80 enhances bacterial translocation across intestinal epithelium, and observational data link overall dietary-emulsifier exposure to IBD risk. EFSA is mid re-evaluation of polysorbates (E432–E436). For a supplement excipient with purely cosmetic function (improving the look/texture of soft gels and liquids), the gut-barrier risk profile is unfavorable when safer alternatives (sunflower lecithin, MCT carriers, gum acacia) are widely available.
SucraloseSweetener
Dose context matters. As a trace excipient in a tablet coating or capsule, the amount is minimal and not a meaningful concern. The evidence below applies to the gram-level intakes typical of sweetened protein powders, pre-workouts, and drink mixes: a 2022 human trial (Suez et al., Cell) showed sucralose disrupts gut bacteria and worsens blood sugar control in healthy adults, and a 2023 study (Schiffman et al.) found that sucralose-6-acetate — a compound formed when sucralose is digested — was genotoxic to human cells in vitro. It remains an artificial sweetener with no nutritional purpose.
Titanium DioxideColorant
Banned in the EU (2022) over concerns that its ultra-fine particles may damage DNA in gut cells. Still allowed in the US. Used only for white coloring — provides no health benefit.
Magnesium StearateLubricant
A salt of stearic acid used as a lubricant in tablet and capsule production
Mint and Mandarin FlavorFlavor
A combined mint and mandarin flavoring blend
Polyethylene Glycol (Coating)Coating
A polyether polymer used as a tablet coating and plasticizer
Silicon DioxideAnti-caking
Fine silica powder used to prevent clumping
MonoglyceridesEmulsifier
Glycerol monoesters of fatty acids used as emulsifiers and processing lubricants
How to Take It
Take it anytime
Absorbs substantially better fasted — take it about 30 minutes before a meal.
On an empty stomach
On the label
As a dietary supplement, take one caplet daily.
General guidance based on the ingredients, not a substitute for the label or your doctor.
Price Check
$29.99
Near the median of 101 ALA supplements
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Sources & Scoring
Nutrient data (RDA, UL, and safety thresholds) sourced from: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and National Academies Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI).
This is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before making changes to your supplement routine.
The score analyzes what's on the label: ingredient doses vs. clinical ranges, chemical forms, evidence levels, and known interactions. It does not verify label accuracy or test for contaminants — for that, look for third-party certifications like USP or NSF.