What is the recommended dosage for Alpha-Lipoic Acid?

General: 300-600 mg/day; R Ala Active Form: 150-300 mg/day; Weight Management: 600-1,800 mg/day

What are the side effects of Alpha-Lipoic Acid?

Potential side effects include: Nausea, Skin rash, Hypoglycemia (when combined with diabetes medications), GI discomfort.

What is alpha-lipoic acid and how may it support weight management?

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a sulfur-containing antioxidant naturally produced in the body. It plays a role in mitochondrial energy metabolism. A meta-analysis of clinical trials found that ALA supplementation was associated with small but statistically significant reductions in body weight.

What dosage of alpha-lipoic acid has been studied for weight management?

Clinical trials have used 300–1,800 mg of alpha-lipoic acid per day. Weight management studies most commonly used 600–1,200 mg daily. The R-enantiomer is considered the biologically active form, though most supplements contain a racemic mixture.

What are the potential side effects of alpha-lipoic acid?

Common side effects include nausea, skin rash, and digestive discomfort. ALA may lower blood sugar levels, so individuals taking diabetes medications should monitor glucose carefully. Very high doses (above 1,800 mg) have been associated with increased oxidative stress in some animal studies.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

fat_metabolism

Also known as: ALA, R-Lipoic Acid, R-ALA, Thioctic Acid

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About

A uniquely versatile antioxidant that is both fat- and water-soluble, allowing it to function in all tissue compartments. Meta-analyses demonstrate alpha-lipoic acid may support healthy body weight and insulin sensitivity, particularly at higher doses over extended supplementation periods.

How It Works

Both fat- and water-soluble antioxidant that activates AMPK in the hypothalamus, reducing caloric intake, while simultaneously enhancing insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in peripheral tissues. Regenerates endogenous antioxidants (glutathione, vitamins C and E) and chelates transition metals, reducing oxidative stress that impairs metabolic signaling.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Obesity	B	12	534	View →
Insulin Resistance	B	10	800	View →

Side Effects

Nausea
Skin rash
Hypoglycemia (when combined with diabetes medications)
GI discomfort

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Diabetes medications (may potentiate — hypoglycemia risk)
Thyroid medications (may affect thyroid hormone levels)
Chemotherapy agents (antioxidant interaction)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Berberine CLA L-Carnitine MCT Oil

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 300-600 mg/day; R_Ala_Active_Form: 150-300 mg/day; Weight_Management: 600-1,800 mg/day
Forms: capsule tablet
Natural Sources: Organ meats (liver, kidney), Spinach, Broccoli, Tomatoes, Brussels sprouts, Red meat
Upper Limit: 1,800 mg/day; GI side effects at higher doses
Best Time: 30 minutes before meals on empty stomach (food reduces absorption by ~30%)

Evidence Summary

Obesity B

Insulin Resistance B

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.