Doctors Best-Stabilized R-Lipoic Acid Capsules 60

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA, thioctic acid) is a naturally occurring, vitamin-like nutrient. It is a sulfur-containing fatty acid that acts as a co-enzyme in carbohydrate metabolism, which puts it close to the B-complex vitamins in the role it plays. It is often called the universal antioxidant because it is soluble in both water and fat, quenches a wide range of free radicals, and can recycle other antioxidant nutrients such as vitamins C and E.

Lipoic acid occurs in an R and an S form. Research suggests the natural R form is the more biologically active of the two. Pure R-lipoic acid is unstable and tends to polymerise on exposure to heat, light and moisture, so this product uses BioEnhanced Na-RALA, the sodium salt of R-lipoic acid. That form does not degrade at high temperatures, dissolves and is absorbed better than regular RLA, and carries no solvent residues. One serving contributes less than 1% of the Daily Value for sodium, so the sodium in it is unlikely to affect blood pressure levels.

The formula also includes optically pure D-biotin, the natural form of this water-soluble B-complex vitamin. Long-term lipoic acid can compete with biotin at the biotin-dependent enzymes, so supplementing with lipoic acid may increase the body's requirement for it.

Benefits

• The universal antioxidant — quenches a wide variety of free radicals and supports the functioning of other antioxidants, and is soluble in both water and fat so it can recycle nutrients such as vitamins C and E
• Helps support the body's defence against free radicals
• Helps maintain healthy glucose metabolism, a key factor in the cellular processes that metabolise glucose for energy, and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels
• Supports healthy ageing through improved mitochondrial function and decreased free radical damage
• Supports cognitive function and brain health; ageing is associated with oxidative stress in the brain, and studies have shown longer term memory was enhanced by lipoic acid
• Supports eye health, and is exceptionally suitable for supporting the retina; recommended for smokers, as toxins in cigarette smoke are harmful to the retina
• Supports cardiovascular health, with studies showing support for maintaining healthy weight and healthy lipid metabolism

Product details

• Form: vegetarian capsules
• Pack size: 60 capsules
• Serving: 1 capsule
• Brand: Doctor's Best
• Storage: store in a cool, dry place

Ingredients

Each capsule provides:

• D-biotin 150 mcg
• R-lipoic acid 100 mg (from 125 mg sodium R-alpha lipoate, BioEnhanced Na-RALA)

Other ingredients: modified cellulose (vegetarian capsule), microcrystalline cellulose, rice powder, silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate (vegetable source).

Directions

Adults: take 1 to 2 capsules daily, or as directed by a nutritionally informed physician.

Warnings

• Lipoic acid may lower blood glucose and interact with diabetes, thyroid and chemotherapy medicines.
• Seek professional advice before use if you have diabetes, thyroid disease, thiamine deficiency, heavy alcohol use, are taking medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Biotin can interfere with laboratory tests; tell the clinician and laboratory before testing.
• Stop use for symptoms of low blood sugar or another concerning reaction.

Vitamins and minerals are supplementary to, and not a replacement for, a balanced diet. Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional.