### Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Its Benefits for Diabetes Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant found in many foods and is also produced naturally in our bodies. For many years, high doses of alpha-lipoic acid supplements have been used in parts of Europe for certain types of nerve damage. Studies suggest that they might also help with type 2 diabetes. #### Why Do People Take Alpha-Lipoic Acid? There is strong evidence that alpha-lipoic acid supplements help with type 2 diabetes. Several studies have found that they can improve insulin resistance. Additionally, alpha-lipoic acid supplements can help with neuropathy—nerve damage—caused by diabetes or cancer treatment. They seem to reduce symptoms like pain, tingling, and prickling in the feet and legs. It may also help protect the retina from some of the damage that can occur in people with diabetes. Although these uses are promising, diabetes and cancer obviously need proper medical treatment. So don't treat yourself on your own with supplements. Instead, see your doctor and ask if alpha-lipoic acid might help. #### Other Potential Benefits There's some early evidence that long-term use of alpha-lipoic acid might help with the symptoms of dementia. Other studies suggest that an alpha-lipoic acid cream might help skin damage related to aging. However, more research needs to be done. Alpha-lipoic acid has also been researched as a treatment for many other conditions, including Amanita mushroom poisoning, glaucoma, kidney disease, migraines, and peripheral arterial disease. So far, the evidence is not clear. #### Dosage Because alpha-lipoic acid is an unproven treatment, there is no established dose. However, studies have used between 600-1,800 milligrams daily for diabetes and neuropathy. One review concluded that the evidence is convincing for the use of 600 milligrams daily for three weeks on symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. Some studies have used intravenous alpha-lipoic acid instead of oral supplements. #### Natural Sources Many foods contain alpha-lipoic acid in very low amounts. These include spinach, broccoli, yams, potatoes, yeast, tomatoes, Brussels sprouts, carrots, beets, and rice bran. Red meat—and particularly organ meat—is also a source of alpha-lipoic acid. #### Risks Given the lack of evidence about its safety, alpha-lipoic acid is not recommended for children or for women who are breastfeeding. It may be used orally and for a short-term during pregnancy.