Origin & tradition
Not traditional: ALA was identified as a mitochondrial cofactor in the 1950s.
Western tradition · Mitochondrial Cofactor
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
A mitochondrial cofactor active in both fat and water — the only antioxidant that regenerates glutathione, vitamin C, and vitamin E simultaneously.
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Why longevity buyers care
Key active: R-Alpha-lipoic acid (mitochondrial cofactor & universal antioxidant).
ALA is a co-factor for α-keto acid dehydrogenase complexes in mitochondria and a free-radical scavenger that regenerates glutathione, ascorbate, and tocopherols. R-ALA (natural form) shows greater mitochondrial uptake. Human RCTs focus on diabetic neuropathy (FDA-approved in Germany), metabolic syndrome, and cognitive aging.
Effect summary
Studied health outcomes
Editorial summary — This table is curated by hand from published research consensus, not automatically calculated from our trial database. Grades reflect our interpretation of the literature. Treat as a starting point, not a definitive verdict. See the Evidence panel below for the underlying trial and paper counts sourced directly from ClinicalTrials.gov and PubMed.
| Health outcome | Effect | Magnitude | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insulin sensitivity / blood glucose | Increases | Moderate | B |
| Diabetic peripheral neuropathy | Decreases | Strong | A |
| Antioxidant markers | Increases | Moderate | B |
| Body weight (modest) | Decreases | Minor | C |
Grade: A = robust RCTs · B = several RCTs / meta-analysis · C = limited or mixed RCTs · D = observational or early data
Dosage guidance
How Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) is typically used
- Typical dose
- 300–600 mg/day (racemic ALA) or 150–300 mg/day (R-ALA only)
- Form
- R-ALA preferred (the biologically active isomer); take on empty stomach
- Timing
- 30 minutes before meals — food reduces absorption significantly
R-ALA (R-alpha lipoic acid) is the natural isomer; racemic (RS-ALA) is 50/50 mix. R-ALA has better bioavailability and potency at lower doses. Stabilized R-ALA (Na-RALA or Bio-Enhanced R-ALA) has better shelf life.
Informational only — not a prescription or personalised medical advice. Consult a qualified clinician before starting any supplement or medication.
Evidence summary
What the research actually says
76Evidence confidence
Extensive human-trial evidence289 randomized controlled trials · 109 meta-analyses / systematic reviews
Human RCTs in diabetic neuropathy and metabolic endpoints; aging-specific trials emerging
ALA is a co-factor for α-keto acid dehydrogenase complexes in mitochondria and a free-radical scavenger that regenerates glutathione, ascorbate, and tocopherols. R-ALA (natural form) shows greater mitochondrial uptake. Human RCTs focus on diabetic neuropathy (FDA-approved in Germany), metabolic syndrome, and cognitive aging.
233registered clinical trials reference this intervention
2selected from 2+ PubMed papers (longevity / aging angle)
Key active: R-Alpha-lipoic acid (mitochondrial cofactor & universal antioxidant).
According to PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov: trial counts from ClinicalTrials.gov, peer-reviewed literature from PubMed. Counts auto-refresh weekly; last checked 2026-06-12. They include trials across many endpoints, not only longevity.
Informational only — not medical advice, a treatment claim, or a substitute for a qualified clinician. Evidence strength varies; we show mixed and null results on purpose.
Evidence collections
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) appears in
Compare the evidence
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