There’s a lot of hype around dietary supplements. There’s also a lot of hype around weight loss. I’m not about hype, but I am about results.
If you can use supplements to support a healthier metabolism and make it easier for you to lose weight, I’m all for that. Also, new research out of Oregon State University shows what the dietary supplement Alpha-Lipoic Acid (also known as ALA) does to encourage weight loss.
How Alpha Lipoic Acid Works
Here are some of the ways ALA works:
- ALA works inside mitochondria to support energy production
- ALA supports blood sugar metabolism
- ALA supports antioxidant defenses
- ALA supports healthy inflammatory pathways
There are plenty of research studies of ALA, but the most recent one found that overweight (but otherwise healthy) people who took ALA for 6 weeks lost more body weight and body fat than people who didn’t take the supplement.
ALA was especially helpful for women and for the heaviest participants in the study.
Incorporating alpha-lipoic acid into your daily routine, along with a healthy diet and regular exercise, can be a powerful tool in your weight loss journey. While ALA offers promising benefits for fat metabolism and insulin sensitivity, it’s important to approach it as part of a comprehensive, balanced lifestyle. As with any supplement, consult with your healthcare provider before starting ALA to ensure it aligns with your unique health needs. Remember, long-lasting results come from a holistic approach that nurtures your body, mind, and spirit, helping you achieve your weight goals while optimizing your overall well-being. This is especially true for women in midlife.
Reference:
Bobe G, Michels AJ, Zhang WJ et al. A Randomized Controlled Trial of Long-Term (R)-α-Lipoic Acid Supplementation Promotes Weight Loss in Overweight or Obese Adults without Altering Baseline Elevated Plasma Triglyceride Concentrations. J Nutr. 2020.
https://academic.oup.com/jn/article-abstract/150/9/2336/5874419
