1. Description: ALA is a direct antioxidant that is bound to protein and functions as a cofactor for several important mitochondrial complexes.
2. Benefits: ALA can protect the brain from toxic free radicals. Lipoic acid triggers antioxidant defense and enhances cellular glucose uptake. By doing so, it helps to increase insulin sensitivity, thus lowering blood sugar levels in diabetics. ALA has been shown to help with diabetic neuropathy.
3. Fun Fact: Suffer from MS, or know someone who does? ALA has been linked to slowing the disease progression of multiple sclerosis.