Alpha-Lipoic acid is an antioxidant that is made by the body and is found in every cell, where it helps turn glucose into energy. Antioxidants are substances that attack "free radicals," waste products created when the body turns food into energy. Free radicals cause harmful chemical reactions that can damage cells in the body, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. They also damage organs and tissues.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid, unlike other antioxidants, which work only in water (such as vitamin C) or fatty tissues (such as vitamin E),  is both fat- and water-soluble. That means it can work throughout the body. In addition, antioxidants are depleted as they attack free radicals, but evidence suggests alpha-Lipoic acid may help regenerate these other antioxidants and make them active again.

Scientists first discovered the ALA compound in bacteria back in 1937. At one time scientists believed ALA was a vitamin -- substances the body needs, but can't produce on its own. But in 1998, it was identified as an antioxidant crucial to energy production in the body.

There has been tremendous media coverage of the results of tests carried out by Professor Bruce Ames a molecular biologist at the University of California. Research indicated that a combination of Acetyl L-Carnitine and Alpha Lipoic Acid caused animals to appear considerably 'younger' by all the normal measures of ageing including energy levels and memory. Each substance has been studied extensively for its value in lessening physical and mental deterioration associated with ageing, but it is the action of the two substances in combination that has caused great excitement

Free radicals are potentially harmful molecules of oxygen that are produced by our bodies in response to our metabolism. Exercise and other factors such as radiation, sunlight, air pollution, alcohol, tobacco and some prescription drugs can all cause our bodies to produce free radicals.

Alpha Lipoic Acid is an extremely powerful antioxidant which has been shown to neutralize the cell damaging “free radicals”. These Free Radicals are found in the fatty tissues and have been linked with the rising rates of strokes, cataracts and even neurological disorders. By eliminating the Free Radicals from our systems we perhaps stand a better chance of protecting our bodies against a host of ailments.

On going research (Better Nutrition 1/1/2007) indicates that Alpha Lipoic Acid is not only a strong and potent antioxidant it may also be a defence against the symptoms of diabetes. We at Natural-Ingredients.co.uk were told by our researchers that Alpha Lipoic Acid can help to balance blood sugar levels it may even lower blood sugar levels by improving the insulin function and quality.

It is also suggested that Alpha Lipoic Acid may assist in weight loss and studies have shown that Alpha Lipoic Acid may well be helpful in preventing or delaying Alzheimer’s. It certainly looks to us at Natural-Ingredients.co.uk as if Alpha Lipoic Acid deserves its nickname given to it by the Tribune New Service in May 2002 “Natures Bounty”.

Alpha Lipoic Acid 150mg, Di Calcium Phosphate, Magnesium Stearate (veg), Microcrystalline Cellulose.