BioStacks
Best for
Ingredients (1)
Alpha Lipoic Acid
100%Dose/day
600 mg
Target
300–600 mg
Form
Budget
Other Ingredients (7)
Caramel ColorColor
Class III and IV caramel colors contain 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI), classified by IARC as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans) in 2011 (Monograph Vol. 101). California Prop 65 lists 4-MEI as a known carcinogen; products delivering >29 mcg/day require a cancer warning label. NTP TR-535 (2007) found 4-MEI caused lung tumors in mice. Major cola brands (Coca-Cola, Pepsi) voluntarily reformulated 2012-2014 to reduce 4-MEI below California thresholds. Because labels never specify Class I (sugar + heat only, safer) vs Class III/IV (ammonia-process, contains 4-MEI), consumers cannot verify which they're consuming. Combined with the additive's purely cosmetic purpose, the risk:benefit ratio is unfavorable for any supplement.
Silicon DioxideAnti-caking
Fine silica powder used to prevent clumping
Ascorbyl PalmitateAntioxidant
Fat-soluble form of vitamin C used as preservative
GelatinCapsule
Protein derived from collagen, used in traditional capsule shells
Mixed TocopherolsAntioxidant
Natural vitamin E used as preservative
Vegetable OilCarrier
Edible oils used as carriers in softgels and as processing aids
GlycerinHumectant
Sweet-tasting liquid used in soft capsules and liquids
How to Take It
Take it anytime
Absorbs substantially better fasted — take it about 30 minutes before a meal.
On an empty stomach
Split into 2 doses across the day
On the label
For adults, take one (1) softgel two times daily, preferably with meals.
Labels usually say “with food” because it's gentler on the stomach, not because it absorbs better. Fasted absorbs more — start there, and switch to a light meal if it bothers you.
General guidance based on the ingredients, not a substitute for the label or your doctor.
Price Check
$11.99
Cheaper than 85% 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. studied 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.