Solaray: Alpha Lipoic Acid 250 mg 60ct 250mg

Alpha Lipoic Acid 250 mg - 60ct 250mg



by   Solaray
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UPC: 076280083194
# 8319

Solaray Alpha Lipoic Acid 250 mg - 60 Vegetarian Capsules

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is often hailed as nature’s “universal antioxidant” because of its rare ability to function in both aqueous (water-soluble) and lipid (fat-soluble) environments. While the human body synthesizes ALA in minute quantities within the mitochondria, dietary intake and internal production decline with age and metabolic stress. Delivering a clinically relevant 250 mg of pure Alpha Lipoic Acid per single-capsule serving, Solaray’s premium 100% vegan formula supplies targeted nutritional reinforcement for cellular energy production, healthy glucose uptake, peripheral nerve comfort, and system-wide free radical defense.

Why Alpha Lipoic Acid Matters: The Universal Antioxidant Advantage

Unlike conventional antioxidants that are restricted to specific cellular compartments - such as Vitamin C (which functions strictly in water-based cellular fluid) or Vitamin E (which operates exclusively inside fatty cell membranes) - Alpha Lipoic Acid traverses both fluid and lipid barriers with ease. Once absorbed, ALA is rapidly converted by cellular enzymes into its reduced form, dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA). Together, ALA and DHLA form a dynamic antioxidant pair that neutralizes a broad spectrum of reactive oxygen species (ROS), including singlet oxygen, hydroxyl radicals, and peroxynitrite.

Recharging the Body’s Antioxidant Network

Alpha Lipoic Acid does not merely quench free radicals; it actively restores your internal defenses. Through redox recycling, ALA regenerates depleted antioxidant reserves, including:
  • Glutathione: The body’s primary intracellular defense against oxidative stress and environmental toxins.
  • Vitamin C & Vitamin E: Restoring oxidized vitamins back into active, free-radical-scavenging configurations.
  • Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Sustaining critical bioenergetic pathways in heart tissue and skeletal muscle.

Clinically Studied Health Benefits

1. Healthy Glucose Metabolism & Insulin Sensitivity

Alpha Lipoic Acid plays an indispensable enzymatic role in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Within the mitochondria, ALA serves as a mandatory cofactor for multienzyme complexes - specifically pyruvate dehydrogenase and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase - facilitating the conversion of glucose into adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Research indicates that ALA supports normal glucose disposal by facilitating GLUT4 transporter translocation to cell membranes, encouraging healthy insulin sensitivity and balanced blood sugar levels already within the normal range.

2. Peripheral Nerve Health & Microvascular Support

Nerve cells are exceptionally vulnerable to oxidative stress and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). Numerous clinical evaluations demonstrate that daily supplementation with Alpha Lipoic Acid supports:
  • Healthy microcirculation and endoneurial blood flow to peripheral extremities.
  • Normal neurological signaling and sensorimotor function in the hands and feet.
  • Reduction of oxidative markers associated with nerve discomfort and tingling sensations.

3. Mitochondrial Energy & Cellular Longevity

Because it sits at the biochemical crossroads of the Krebs cycle, ALA helps cells efficiently burn macronutrients for clean metabolic energy. By protecting mitochondrial membranes from free radical degradation, ALA promotes cellular vitality, metabolic stamina, and healthy aging across high-energy organs such as the heart, liver, and brain.

The Solaray & VitaNet Quality Standard

When shopping for Alpha Lipoic Acid online, purity and stability are paramount. Solaray subjects every production batch to rigorous laboratory analysis in a cGMP-certified facility:
  • Lab-Verified Potency: Validated identity, potency, and purity of all 250 mg of ALA per VegCap.
  • Racemic 50/50 Balance: Provides the precise, stable R- and S-alpha lipoic acid formulation utilized across decades of published clinical literature.
  • 100% Plant-Based: Encapsulated in non-GMO vegetable cellulose capsules with a whole rice concentrate base—free of artificial binders or excessive synthetic excipients.
  • Backed by VitaNet Expertise: Sourced directly through verified supply chains and backed by VitaNet’s 30+ years of supplement retail experience and 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Suggested Use & Dosage Recommendations

  • Directions: Take one (1) VegCap daily with a meal or a large glass of water, or as recommended by your healthcare practitioner.
  • Optimal Timing: For general antioxidant and metabolic support, take with food. For targeted glucose management, some individuals prefer taking ALA 20 to 30 minutes before a meal containing carbohydrates to optimize metabolic uptake.
  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep bottle tightly closed.

Precautions, Contraindications & Drug Interactions

To ensure safe, responsible supplementation, review the following clinical considerations prior to use:
  • Blood Glucose Medications: Because Alpha Lipoic Acid supports insulin sensitivity and glucose transport, individuals taking insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents (such as metformin or sulfonylureas) should monitor blood glucose levels closely to prevent hypoglycemia. Consult your physician prior to use.
  • Thyroid Function: ALA may bind to or influence thyroid hormone action. Individuals taking levothyroxine or being treated for thyroid disorders should seek medical advice.
  • Thiamine (Vitamin B1) Status: High-dose lipoic acid can exacerbate thiamine deficiency in individuals with chronic alcohol dependence or severe malnourishment. Pairing ALA with a comprehensive B-complex is often recommended for balanced cellular coenzyme support.
  • Pregnancy & Nursing: If you are pregnant, nursing, or planning a pregnancy, consult your physician before adding ALA to your regimen.

Complete Supplement Facts & Ingredient Listing

Supplement Facts Amount Per Serving % Daily Value
Serving Size: 1 VegCap
Servings Per Container: 60
Alpha Lipoic Acid 250 mg *
*Daily Value (DV) not established.
  • Other Ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose Capsule, Whole Rice Concentrate, Silica, and Magnesium Stearate.
  • Allergen Information: Formulated without wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish, or tree nuts. Suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between Alpha Lipoic Acid and R-Alpha Lipoic Acid?

Standard Alpha Lipoic Acid (including this 250 mg formula) contains a 50/50 racemic blend of two optical isomers: R-lipoic acid (the form naturally produced by the body) and S-lipoic acid (a synthetic mirror image that stabilizes the compound). Most landmark scientific research demonstrating metabolic and nerve benefits has been conducted using this exact 50/50 racemic mixture, offering an exceptionally stable and cost-effective daily dose.

Can I take Solaray Alpha Lipoic Acid 250 mg on an empty stomach?

Alpha Lipoic Acid is best absorbed on an empty stomach; however, because it is an organic acid, some sensitive individuals may experience mild gastric irritation or heartburn. If stomach sensitivity occurs, taking your 250 mg VegCap alongside a meal or light snack resolves digestive discomfort without significantly hindering its clinical antioxidant benefits.

Why is Alpha Lipoic Acid called the "universal antioxidant"?

Most dietary antioxidants are restricted by solubility: Vitamin C is strictly water-soluble and protects blood plasma and cellular cytoplasm, while Vitamin E and CoQ10 are lipid-soluble and protect fatty cellular membranes. Alpha Lipoic Acid is both water- and fat-soluble, enabling it to neutralize free radicals within the watery interior of cells, lipid bilayer membranes, and the bloodstream alike.

Does Alpha Lipoic Acid help recycle other antioxidants?

Yes. When antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Glutathione neutralize free radicals, they become oxidized and temporarily inactive. Alpha Lipoic Acid donates electrons back to these spent molecules, regenerating them into active antioxidant states and prolonging the body's overall protective capacity.

How long does it take to experience the benefits of Alpha Lipoic Acid 250 mg?

Cellular antioxidant protection and metabolic support begin shortly after absorption. However, for structural benefits such as peripheral nerve comfort, microvascular support, and steady glucose regulation, clinical studies generally recommend consistent daily supplementation for a minimum of 4 to 12 weeks.

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Helpful Customer Reviews
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Review of Alpha Lipoic Acid 250 mg - Solaray Product 8319
Reviewed by Simon2011
Monday, May 9, 2011

Rating: 4/5

As a running enthusiast, I sometimes find that my energy flags a little and I’m always keen to try out anything that may boost my get-up-and-go. After taking this product for a few days I’ve certainly noticed an change in my energy levels - nothing spectacular, but a definite improvement.

Simon2011 ,