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Prevention of cancer.
As an antioxidant, alpha-lipoic acid holds promise for protecting the
body against changes in healthy cells that lead to cancer.
Improves
elasticity and connective tissues.
Ala is being used in many cosmetic and skin care applications. Many
health and skin care researchers led by Dr.Nicholas Perricone have
developed products and regimes that incorporate alpha lipoic acid as
the primary ingredient due to its anti wrinkle anti-aging properties.
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Lessen numbness and tingling
Alpha-lipoic acid may benefit anyone whose limbs tend to tingle or
become numb, or "fall asleep" due to nerve compression., Alpha-lipoic
acid increases blood flow to the nerves and improves transmission of
nerve impulses.
• Protects the liver in cases of hepatitis and other types of liver
disease.
As an antioxidant, alpha-lipoic acid shields the liver from
potentially harmful cell changes and assists it in flushing toxins
from the body. This makes it useful in treating such liver disorders
as chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis.
Preserves brain function in aging adults.
Results
from animal studies indicate that alpha-lipoic acid may improve
long-term memory. Much remains to be learned about whether this occurs
in humans, but it may be worth trying this powerful antioxidant when a
disease such as Alzheimer's starts to erode memory. In addition,
alpha-lipoic acid holds promise for preserving brain cells following a
stroke or other type of trauma that restricts blood flow to the brain.
Reduces
the incidence of cataracts.
Alpha-lipoic acid has kept cataracts from forming in animals; an
effect that may occur in humans, too, but still requires more
investigation. The compound also increases the potency of vitamins C
and E, both nutrients that protect the eye's lens from harmful
ultraviolet light.
Increases energy combats chronic fatigue syndrome.
Because it plays a part in cellular energy production, some
nutritionally oriented physicians recommend alpha-lipoic acid for the
treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome. Many athletes find it increases
their energy and performance.
Treats symptoms of nerve damage in people with diabetes.
Alpha-lipoic acid has been used for decades to counter nerve damage in
people with diabetes (types 1 and 2). Known as diabetic neuropathy,
this often very painful condition tends to develop in people who have
had uncontrolled diabetes for a long time. The neuropathy may be
caused in part by free-radical damage to nerves resulting from poorly
regulated blood sugar (glucose). As an antioxidant, alpha-lipoic acid
helps to block such damage. In addition, because of its effect on
glucose metabolism, lipoic acid may improve the glucose-lowering
action of insulin (the hormone that regulates blood sugar).
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