OnePin Peptide Library · Metabolic
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
ALA · R-ALA · R-Alpha-Lipoic Acid · Thioctic Acid
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) is a sulfur-containing fatty acid synthesized endogenously in mitochondria, where it serves as an essential cofactor for pyruvate dehydrogenase and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase - key enzymes in the citric acid cycle. Supplemental ALA exists in both free and protein-bound forms in small amounts in red meat, organ meats, and some vegetables. Endogenous synthesis declines with age.,ALA is unique among antioxidants in being both water- and fat-soluble, allowing it to function across cell membranes and throughout the aqueous and lipid compartments of cells. It is often called the 'universal antioxidant' because it directly scavenges ROS, chelates transition metals, and - uniquely - regenerates other antioxidants including glutathione, vitamin C, vitamin E, and CoQ10.,ALA has the strongest clinical evidence for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, where the R-isomer (R-ALA, the biologically active form) demonstrates clinically meaningful symptom reduction. It also shows promise for insulin sensitivity, cardiovascular protection, cognitive function, and weight management support. The S-isomer in racemic ALA supplements is less biologically active; R-ALA is preferred when available and affordable.
Take on empty stomach when possible - food reduces absorption by ~30%. 30 minutes before meals or 2 hours after is ideal. Split dosing (morning + afternoon) provides sustained antioxidant coverage.
Start here. Every protocol below is ordered lowest-first. Begin at the smallest effective dose, hold about a week to assess tolerance, and step up only if needed.
How it works
ALA functions as a cofactor for mitochondrial dehydrogenase enzymes (pyruvate dehydrogenase, alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, branched-chain alpha-keto acid dehydrogenase), where the disulfide bond is reduced to the dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA) form during catalysis. DHLA is an even more potent antioxidant than ALA itself.,As an antioxidant, ALA directly scavenges reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (hydroxyl radicals, peroxynitrite, singlet oxygen). More uniquely, ALA/DHLA regenerates other antioxidants: reduces oxidized glutathione to GSH, recycles dehydroascorbate to vitamin C, and regenerates tocopherol radicals to vitamin E. This 'antioxidant network' function makes ALA disproportionately valuable vs its plasma levels.,ALA activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), the cellular energy sensor. AMPK activation increases glucose uptake (via GLUT4 translocation), fatty acid oxidation, and improves insulin sensitivity - mechanisms shared with metformin and berberine. ALA also chelates transition metals (iron, copper, mercury, arsenic), reducing metal-catalyzed oxidative stress.,Peripheral neuropathy benefit likely reflects combined mechanisms: oxidative stress reduction in nerve tissue, improved microvascular blood flow, AGE (advanced glycation end product) inhibition, and direct support of nerve metabolism via cofactor function.
ALA functions as a cofactor for mitochondrial dehydrogenase enzymes (pyruvate dehydrogenase, alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, branched-chain alpha-keto acid dehydrogenase), where the disulfide bond is reduced to the dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA) form during catalysis. DHLA is an even more potent antioxidant than ALA itself.,As an antioxidant, ALA directly scavenges reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (hydroxyl radicals, peroxynitrite, singlet oxygen). More uniquely, ALA/DHLA regenerates other antioxidants: reduces oxidized glutathione to GSH, recycles dehydroascorbate to vitamin C, and regenerates tocopherol radicals to vitamin E. This 'antioxidant network' function makes ALA disproportionately valuable vs its plasma levels.,ALA activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), the cellular energy sensor. AMPK activation increases glucose uptake (via GLUT4 translocation), fatty acid oxidation, and improves insulin sensitivity - mechanisms shared with metformin and berberine. ALA also chelates transition metals (iron, copper, mercury, arsenic), reducing metal-catalyzed oxidative stress.,Peripheral neuropathy benefit likely reflects combined mechanisms: oxidative stress reduction in nerve tissue, improved microvascular blood flow, AGE (advanced glycation end product) inhibition, and direct support of nerve metabolism via cofactor function.
What to expect
Weeks 1-2: GI adaptation. Subtle energy/mental clarity changes possible.
Evidence
Interactions & stacking
What's safe to combine, and what belongs in a separate pin.
Safe & synergistic
Keep separate
Pharmacokinetics
Storage. Store at room temperature (20-25C) in a cool, dry place. Protect from moisture and light - ALA is sensitive to both. Capsules shelf-stable 1-2 years; stabilized R-ALA (Na-R-ALA) has longer shelf life than pure R-ALA.
Regulatory status
Classified as a dietary supplement in the US. IV form used in hospitals in Germany and other countries for diabetic neuropathy. Not FDA-approved for any medical indication in the US. Widely available over-the-counter.
Put it to work
Calculate, log & track
Open Alpha-Lipoic Acid straight into OnePin with your vial and dose pre-filled, then let it handle the syringe math and remind you before the vial runs out.
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The guide & community
The complete Alpha-Lipoic Acid walkthrough, real protocol discussion and coaching live inside the BlessUp community on Skool.
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