R-Lipoic Acid

The most active form of alpha-lipoic acid

• supports healthy nerve and brain function*
• versatile antioxidant in both water- and fat-soluble tissues*
• promotes liver and eye health*
• the form of supplemental lipoic acid found in highest concentration in the bloodstream

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) contains two forms – designated as R-lipoic acid (R-ALA) and S-lipoic acid (S-ALA) – that are mirror images of each other. Naturally occurring ALA is in the R form, where it functions as an essential cofactor for many enzymes involved in energy production.* In addition, R-lipoic acid has important characteristics – significant antioxidant effects in particular – that contribute to liver, nerve, and eye health.*

Dietary supplements of ALA are generally comprised either of R-ALA by itself or a mixture of R-ALA and S-ALA. Studies indicate the R-ALA form appears to be better absorbed, with twice as much R-ALA than S-ALA appearing in the bloodstream after an oral dose.* Hence, R-ALA is the best form utilized by the body.*

Thorne Research provides R-lipoic acid bound to sodium – the most bioavailable form of R-lipoic acid.*