R-Lipoic Acid is the most effective form of Lipoic Acid found in dietary supplements. This is the natural ‘R’ version of the enzyme which has beneficial effects when consumed orally.
Most versions of Alpha Lipoic Acid suplements contain an equal mix of the R- and S-Lipoic Acid forms. These mixed supplements are less potent because only the R- form is bioactive and well-absorbed by the body.
This natural antioxidant enzyme is important for protecting healthy nerves and mitochondrial function. It plays a role in energy metabolism and reduces free radical damage in our cells.
Research shows that it can have a positive effect on blood sugar regulation and weight management. It has been described as mimicking some of the beneficial effects of calorie restriction for healthy aging.
R-Lipoic Acid is also used to combat damage caused by heavy metals. It has the ability to support the antioxidant effects of vitamins C and E as well as glutathione.
High doses of R-Lipoic Acid have also been used to manage high blood sugar, support weight loss, for cognitive health and to address symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.
What is R-Lipoic Acid Used for?
Lipoic acid is an enzyme naturally produced by the body. The enzyme will repair oxidative damage and stimulate regeneration of essential antioxidants such as vitamin E and vitamin C.
It will also restore glutathione levels. Glutathione has three main purposes within the body: it acts as an antioxidant, works as a free radical scavenger and has detoxifying capabilities.
For supplements, lipoic acid is available in two forms: Alpha-lipoic acid and R-lipoic acid. Alpha-lipoic acid or A-lipoic acid will contain a mixture of R-lipoic acid (natural type) and S-lipoic acid (synthetic form).
With a R-lipoic acid supplement, it contains only the type that is found in nature. R-lipoic acid is derived from the human body or synthesized from plants and animals.
Small amounts of lipoic acid can be found naturally in foods such as leafy green vegetables and organ meats. Adults will generally take between 100 and 600 mg of R-lipoic acid daily.
According to Oregon State University, R-lipoic acid is better absorbed into the body than A-lipoic acid. The sodium salt within R-lipoic acid has better solubility than other forms.
Additionally, it was found that lipoic acid supplements have an increased absorption rate of 20 to 30 percent when taken on an empty stomach. This supplement dissolves in both fat and water.
There is a significant different in the bioavailability between R- and A-lipoic acid. In a 1996 study published in the European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, scientists found that peak concentrations of R-lipoic acid were an average of 40 to 50 percent higher than other formulations.
As a natural derivative, the body will recognize it and will know how to properly use it to get the most benefits.
R-lipoic acid supplements have been studied extensively to determine if they can be an effective complementary treatment for certain medical conditions.
For instance, R-lipoic acid and cancer studies have found that the antioxidant properties may help as a preventative method for certain forms of cancers.
This research is preliminary and more clinical trials are needed to evaluate efficacy. The FDA has not approved this supplement as a drug for the treatment of any medical conditions.
In diabetes patients, R-lipoic acid has been studied for properties such as glucose utilization and preventing diabetic neuropathy. This supplement is purported to improve blood sugar regulation and to prevent signs of glycation, which can speed up the aging process.
In one clinical trial, researchers found that patients who were given a 1,000mg dose of lipoic acid showed an improvement of 50 percent in having glucose removed from the body.
In diabetic patients, nerve damage is a common complication. The nerve damage can be bad enough to result in amputations.
With glucose levels better managed as a result of the R-lipoic acid supplementation, the risk of complications associated with excessively high blood glucose may be lowered.
Diabetics are also at an increased risk of vascular disorders. Use of lipoic acid supplements as an adjunct therapy may help prevent vascular diseases from developing over time.
Cognitive health in older populations may be improved with R-lipoic acid supplements. Studies are still being conducted, but the research is promising.
In a study involving patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss rates slowed among those taking R-Lipoic Acid supplements.
Scientists are still determining whether the memory improvements would be long-lasting. The authors of this study state additional trials need to be conducted before recommendations can be made.
Since R-lipoic acid has the ability to fight against free radicals, the supplement may help to support liver health.
This enzyme boosts the effects of detoxifiying agents like glutathione. It may be useful in preventing liver damage from harmful free radicals and heavy metals.
Some studies show benefits from consuming this nutrient for liver health, but more research is needed to determine whether or not it works. In one study, use of 300mg of ALA 2-3 times per day for 2 months was found to reduce liver size and cholestasis in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.
However, in a study of alpha-lipoic acid, 300mg taken orally each day for 6 months did not appear to improve liver function compared to a placebo among patients with alcohol-related liver disease.
Generally, R-lipoic acid has been considered safe with very few side effects. However, certain populations should be cautious before using the supplement and ask their doctors for advice.
This supplement has not been established as safe for use in breastfeeding or pregnant women. Due to a lack of research, it should be avoided by these populations unless instructed to take it by your physician or healthcare provider.
Researchers found that the side effects of nausea, vomiting and vertigo were affected by the dosage amount of the lipoic acid.
Furthermore, individuals who were taking more than 1,200mg daily experienced changes in urine odor.
There could be an interaction with medications for diabetes since R-lipoic acid can affect glucose levels in the blood. Patients who are using insulin could be at risk for hypoglycemia when taking this supplement.
Blood glucose levels should be monitored closely when using R-lipoic acid with any medications prescribed to manage diabetes.
An important note for consumers is that most versions of A-lipoic acid used in dietary supplements are considered short acting. This enzyme was studied in 2004 by researchers in the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics at the Linus Pauling Institute as a potential therapy for individuals suffering from chronic diseases.
Peak concentrations of this nutrient in the body were measured after one hour of consumption and then declined rapidly from that point on. This means that the benefits of this supplement can wear off quickly following administration.
To avoid having the supplement excreted out within a short amount of time, consumers can look for extended release versions of R-lipoic acid supplements.
One popular brand is the AOR™ time-release capsules which provide 150 mg of the active ingredient per serving. The manufacturer recommends taking 1 capsule three times daily with or without food.
Typically, this supplement is sold in the form of Na-RALA, which refers to a sodium salt of the R-(Alpha) Lipoic Acid. This version is purported to be more heat stable with faster absorption in the body.
Consult with a doctor for guidance on R-lipoic acid dosage amounts and any safety concerns.