Alpha Lipoic Acid is a small sulfur containing molecule with strong anti-oxidant and glucose disposal actions. It is both fat and water soluble. Its actions as an anti-oxidant suggest that is may be helpful in curtailing the effects of aging (1) and the cell damaging effects of free-radicals, which accumulate during exercise(2).  In Europe, it has been used as a blood glucose lowering agent in the treatment of diabetes mellitus for years(3, 4).  It is known that Creatine Monohydrate supplementation enhances muscle glycogen storage(5) and that taking in carbohydrates with creatine in turn enhances creatine uptake(5).  More recently, it has been found that taking in ALA will enhance creatine uptake to an even larger extent(6). 

Supplement Use

ALA can be used post-workout to enhance glycogen restoration and aid in free-radical control.  It is also a good supplement to take in conjuction with Creatine Ethyl Ester.  Empirically, ALA seems to help minimize “spill-over” effects during carbohydrate loading and help bodybuilders fill out more completely.  For those needing rapid muscle glycogen replenishment, a supplement mix containing Waxy Maize, Maltodextrin (to induce an insulin spike), Fructose (with sweetener for flavor), Creatine Ethyl Ester and ALA will create a synergistic effect. Addition of fast and slow-acting protein to such a supplement (e.g., post-workout) will create a highly anabolic blend. 

Ingredients

Alpha Lipoic Acid.

Packaging

Packaged in heat-sealed foil pouches.

General Warnings

If you are currently pregnant or nursing, consult a physician prior to use. Keep out of the reach of children. 

Allergen Warnings

Although this product may not contain one or all of the following, this product is manufactured in a facility that handles milk, soy, egg, peanut, nut, tree, fish, crustaceans/shellfish, and wheat products.

Volumetric Measures: 

Use the table below to approximate the gram equivalent weight for a given level measuring spoon (US Standard). Please note that accurate dosing should only be done with a recommended calibrated scale.

DISCLAIMER: The above description is provided for information only and does not constitute medical advice.  Please consult your physician or the appropriately licensed professional before engaging in a program of exercise or nutritional supplementation.  No information in this site has been reviewed by the FDA.  No product is intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any disease.  

References

1. Bernarducci, M.P. and N.J. Owens, Is there a fountain of youth? A review of current life extension strategies. Pharmacotherapy., 1996. 16: p. 183-200.

2. Khanna, S., et al., Alpha-lipoic acid supplementation: tissue glutathione homeostasis at rest and after exercise. J Appl Physiol, 1999. 86(4): p. 1191-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=10194202

3. Henriksen, E.J., Exercise training and the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid in the treatment of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Free Radic Biol Med, 2006. 40(1): p. 3-12. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=16337874

4. Saengsirisuwan, V., et al., Effects of exercise training and antioxidant R-ALA on glucose transport in insulin-sensitive rat skeletal muscle. J Appl Physiol, 2002. 92(1): p. 50-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=11744642

5. Green, A.L., et al., Creatine ingestion augments muscle creatine uptake and glycogen synthesis during carbohydrate feeding in man. J.Physiol.Lond., 1996. 491: p. 63P-64P.

6. Burke, D.G., et al., Effect of alpha-lipoic acid combined with creatine monohydrate on human skeletal muscle creatine and phosphagen concentration. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab, 2003. 13(3): p. 294-302. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=14669930