Can You Lose Weight With Alpha Lipoic Acid?
Obesity is a serious health condition that has been increasing considerably since the 1980s in the United States. Several supplements that may help in weight loss are under research worldwide to help treat overweight and obese people. Studies indicate that alpha-lipoic acid may help you lose weight but they admit more research is needed and you might not have similar results with the supplementation as subjects in the study.
Alpha-lipoic acid may help you reduce weight. (Image: Big Cheese Photo/Big Cheese Photo/Getty Images)Alpha-lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant and an essential co-factor needed for mitochondrial function. Alpha-lipoic acid reacts with oxygen radicals that protect cell membranes, protect against LDL oxidation and modulation of hypertension. Studies of alpha-lipoic acid examined its properties as a supplement to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and as a possible supplement for weight loss.
Benefits
Alpha-lipoic acid can help you lose weight according to scientific research. A study published in the "American Journal of Medicine" in 2011, showed that obese people who took 1,800 mg of alpha-lipoic acid per day lost significantly more weight than people who used a placebo product. Another study published in "Current Pharmaceutical Design" in 2010, showed that a dose of 800 mg per day for four months cause a weight loss between 8 and 9 nine percent of body weight in obese or pre-obese teens.
Usage Method
Despite the positive research results, alpha-lipoic acid is not a miracle pill that will make you lose weight on its own. In the weight-loss studies alpha-lipoic acid supplementation combined with a low calorie diet. When united with a healthy diet and regular exercise, alpha-lipoic acid can help you lose more weight than without the supplementation.
Considerations
Alpha-lipoic acid does not generally cause serious side effects, according to a study published in "American Journal of Medicine". Some reported side effects included allergic skin reactions, itching, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Always talk to your doctor before beginning to take dietary supplements.
