DavidWolfe.comBroccoli, spinach and other green vegetables contain a chemical compound called alpha lipoic acid or ALA. ALA is a a powerful antioxidant that has the ability to scavenge free radicals, slow the aging process and prevent damage caused by oxidative stress. Alpha lipoic acid health benefits include the ability to fight diabetes, prevent memory loss, protect the skin from damage and more. Foods rich in ALA include spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, tomatoes, peas and beets.
Alpha Lipoic Acid Health Benefits
1. Fights Diabetes
Alpha lipoic acid health benefits include the ability to fight diabetes. ALA provides protection against diabetes by protecting the cells and neurons that play a role in hormone production. Alpha lipoic acid health benefits also include the ability to protect against metabolic syndrome and improve insulin sensitivity, which can help reverse diabetes. Research suggests that ALA can benefit a diabetic diet by relieving symptoms of diabetes, including numbness, cardiovascular problems, pain and swelling. (1)
2. Preserves Eye Health
Alpha lipoic acid health benefits include the ability to preserve eye health by protecting against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can cause vision problems by damaging the nerves in the eyes. Adding foods that are rich in ALA to your diet can help prevent eye-related disorders like macular degeneration, vision loss, cataracts and glaucoma. (2)
3. Prevents Memory Loss and Cognitive Decline
Alpha lipoic acid health benefits include the ability to prevent memory loss and other symptoms related to cognitive decline. ALA enhances antioxidant activity, which can help prevent neuron damage, memory loss and motor impairment. Alpha lipoic acid health benefits also include the ability to pass the blood-brain barrier, giving it the opportunity to protect brain and nerve tissue. Studies suggest that alpha lipoic acid may be beneficial as a natural Alzheimer’s treatment.
4. Helps Boost Glutathione
Alpha lipoic acid health benefits include the ability to boost an antioxidant in the body known as glutathione. Glutathione helps regulate the body’s immune response. It also helps fight off diseases like diabetes. Research has shown that alpha lipoic acid health benefits also include the ability to prevent viruses and improve symptoms in patients with immune deficiency syndrome. (3)
5. Might Help Protect From Skin Damage
Alpha lipoic acid health benefits include the ability to protect the skin from damage. It plays an important role in reversing damage caused by sun exposure and environmental toxins. Studies have shown that using alpha lipoic acid as a topical treatment can help fight physical signs of aging on the skin. Ski creams that contain 5% alpha lipoic acid can help improve the look of the skin by reducing fine lines and wrinkles caused by too much sun exposure. Foods that are rich in ALA also help fight free radicals that can cause damage to the skin. Adding plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to your diet can help keep your skin looking hydrated, healthy and clear.