Is R lipoic acid the same thing as alpha-lipoic acid?

The main difference between alpha lipoic acid and R lipoic acid is that alpha-lipoic acid is a vitamin-like antioxidant while R-lipoic acid is the cis form of alpha-lipoic acid. Alpha-lipoic acid and R-lipoic acid are two types of compounds produced by cells. Both have structures similar to vitamins.

What does R stand for in R alpha-lipoic acid?

Alpha lipoic acid consists of two different forms (isomers) that have vastly different properties. The “R” form is the biologically active component (native to the body) that is responsible for lipoic acid’s phenomenal antioxidant effect.

Which form of lipoic acid is best?

R-lipoic acid contains only the natural form (cis) form of ALA. Considered an ideal antioxidant, Lipoic Acid is a super-antioxidant that does everything an antioxidants should do and a little more.

What is R alpha-lipoic acid good for?

Alpha-lipoic acid has strong antioxidant properties, which may reduce inflammation and skin aging, promote healthy nerve function, lower heart disease risk factors, and slow the progression of memory loss disorders.

Is R alpha lipoic acid better?

The R enantiomer of ALA shows better pharmacokinetic parameters, including increased bioavailability as compared to its S enantiomer.

Does R lipoic acid help kidney function?

More recently, lipoic acid demonstrated positive effects in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy [115–118]. In particular, it was able to prevent renal insufficiency, glomerular mesangial matrix expansion, and glomerulosclerosis by restoring glutathione and reducing malondialdehyde levels [119].

Who should not take R-lipoic acid?

9 As such, people taking thyroid medications such as levothyroxine should be monitored by their healthcare provider if alpha lipoic acid is being used. Due to the lack of safety research, alpha-lipoic acid should not be used in children, pregnant women, or nursing mothers.

Who should not take R lipoic acid?

Can alpha-lipoic acid reverse nerve damage?

ALA’s safety and effectiveness can vary among people with diabetes. As with any dietary supplement, you should talk to your doctor before you start taking it. Stop taking ALA immediately if you notice any unusual side effects or if your symptoms worsen. You can’t reverse nerve damage.

Is R-lipoic acid good for kidneys?

Does R lipoic acid lower blood sugar?

(R)‐ α ‐lipoic acid (ALA), an essential cofactor in mitochondrial respiration and a potential antioxidant, possesses a wide array of metabolic benefits including anti‐obesity, glucose lowering, insulin‐sensitizing, and lipid‐lowering effects.