Alpha-Lipoic Acid Promotes Caloric Expenditure

Written by Shoshana Pritzker Tuesday, 18 October 2011 16:34

Alpha-Lipoic Acid Promotes Caloric Expenditure

Lipoic acid supplements increase the size and number of cell mitochondria— according to a study from the China Agricultural University in Beijing, China. The mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cells that provide the body’s energy needs, determine endurance exercise capacity, and greatly influence lifespan. Lipoic acid protects the mitochondria from highly reactive free radicals, produced naturally during metabolism. It also helps stabilize blood sugar metabolism.

Supplementing lipoic acid in aging mice improved energy metabolism and increased cell mitochondria production. It also improved body composition, blood sugar regulation, and increased energy expenditure and fat-free weight (lean mass). Lipoic acid (also known as alpha-lipoic acid) might be an effective anti-aging supplement that promotes metabolic health. (Metabolism Clinical and Experimental, 59: 967-976, 2010)