Alpha Lipoic vs. R-Lipoic
 

I've been searching the site for info on r-lipoic.

Can anyone provide substantive info regarding the relative benefits of switching from alpha lipoic to r-lipoic.

I seem to recall that mrsD said she was going to switch to r-lipoic. MrsD, are you there?

Thanks.

For What It's Worth
 

http://www.intensivenutrition.com/rlipoic.htm




What is the "R" form?


The "R" form is the biologically active component of Alpha Lipoic Acid which means that it is the only form that one's body can absorb and synthesize thus making R-Lipoic supplementation inherently more efficient and effective. Studies have shown that R Lipoic alone may be considerably more effective than racemic Alpha Lipoic Acid.

Why use the "R" form?

R Lipoic Acid exhibits unique and superior antioxidant activity. For example, R Lipoic is able to increase or maintain levels of other important antioxidants such as glutathione peroxidase, Vitamin E, Vitamin C and Coenzyme Q10. R Lipoic may also increase cellular and mitochondrial antioxidant activity and significantly reduce what is believed to be an underlying cause of aging---inflammation.

What are other benefits of R-Lipoic Acid?

*R lipoic enhances glucose uptake
*R lipoic inhibits glycosylation (where sugar abnormally attaches to protein)
* R Lipoic is helpful for skin health and skin vitality

I have just returned from my vacation...

I use the r-lipoic 100mg a day. (for over a year now)

I never had much results from the old alpha type.

mrsD, what "results" have you had with r-lipoic at 100 mg a day?

Thanks.

much less burning. And overall I see to be metabolically more stable with my blood sugars... When I started the r-lipoic I saw a nice increase in energy during the day. Now that has tapered off or I just got used to the new level of functioning. ;)

That sounds good. Can you recommend (or PM me) a brand?

I've been taking 600 mg of Jarrow's Alpha Lipoic Acid with Biotin. When I recently ran out, I thought I was experiencing a relapse of my foot cramps, and an increase in burning and fatigue. As soon as I went back on it, I felt a bit better.

Obviously, the fluctuations in my symptoms could be due to something else, but it occurred to me that it might be the alpha lipoic acid.

I use Doctor's Best. I started with Country Life because it was a tablet. At first 100mg a day was too much...so I used 50mg a day for that first bottle, breaking them in half. As I got used to the jived feelings which seemed to taper, I just replaced with Doctor's Best Caps 100mg, as they seemed more economical. I use Doctor's Best quite a bit for other things and find it quite good. But other brands are good too...
NOW, Country Life, Jarrow are also quality and affordable. But not one type has everything, you know, so I think we all end up with various brands.

I have found significant relief with "Jarrow Formulas, Alpha Lipoic Sustain 300, with Biotin, 300 mg", two per day, maybe that is the product you mean. I am going to try r-lipoic, probably ordering today.
Electron

I just ordered the r-lipoic. We'll see how it goes.

Yes, please keep us up to date as to your results.

The first things noticeable are increased energy. I expect the PN benefits will be much slower to become obvious. So don't expect PN improvements immediately.