Antioxidants are important to the function of the body as they help to eliminate and destroy the free radicals that can enter our bodies and create cancer cells as well as many other dangerous conditions that we may not even be aware of. Antioxidants can be found in a number of different foods and packages, of course though natural supplements as well. Alpha-Lipoic Acid or ALA is one of the most powerful antioxidants within our bodies today. This antioxidant has the power to restore the function of Vitamin E and C after the free radicals have been neutralized to prevent unnecessary vitamin deficiencies.

ALA also promotes and aids in the process of absorbing Coenzyme Q₁₀ and Glutathione, which are two very important antioxidants as well. The most important and unique feature of ALA to recognize here is that it is soluble in both water and fat, which provides it with the unique ability to move from any cell of the body and eliminate the free radicals without restrictions. Forms of ALA supplemental routines have been used for almost 3 decades throughout Europe for many different medical treatments and conditions. The number one reason for this type of supplementation is to help control the blood sugar levels for diabetics. Second from this is to treat peripheral nerve damage naturally.

ALA can also help prevent the onset of cataracts, detoxify the liver, reduce high cholesterol levels and protect the nerves from oxidative stress. These are important benefits that we cannot live without. This particular antioxidant is only found in a few healthy foods that include:

• Brewer’s yeast
  
  
• Spinach
  
  
• Broccoli
  
  
• Potatoes

As you can see it can be hard to obtain enough ALA through diet alone and this is why supplementation for this form of antioxidant comes highly recommended. ALA is known as the metabolic antioxidant because without it the body cannot turn the sugar we intake throughout the day into energy and the body does not produce large amounts of this antioxidant on its own either. This is where you step in and visit a naturopathic professional in order to learn how to safely supplement your ALA levels to make sure that your body is getting all it needs to function properly.