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R-Dihydro Lipoic Acid Benefits

R-dihydro lipoic acid is an antioxidant that reduces inflammation in the body. R-dihydro lipoic acid, also called R-DHLA, is the most potent form of lipoic acid. In recent years this particular antioxidant has received lots of attention because of the benefits it provides. As people age, your bodies become more vulnerable to disease and the body wears out. Taking good care of the body by making mindful food choices and taking supplements that contain antioxidants becomes even more vital.

  1. Function

    • R-DHLA protects the body from oxidative stress, which can happen as you age or be induced by high blood glucose levels. R-dihydro lipoic acid neutralizes free radicals and protects your cells. Free radicals are unpaired molecules that damage cells while they look for a paired molecule. Nutrients such as vitamins A, C and E are also free-radical scavengers.

    Effects for Diabetics and Eyes

    • Dr. Mark Mitchell, a medical doctor and writer for Life Extension magazine, says diabetics are more susceptible to the effects of free radical damage because high glucose levels cause free radicals to flourish. However, diabetics can manage this damage by controlling their condition and taking supplements such as R-dihydro lipoic acid. According to Mitchell's report, R-DHLA is also beneficial for eye health. With age, your body becomes more likely to develop eye problems, blindness from cataracts or opacities that limit vision. R-dihydro lipoic acid reduces the oxidative stress on the eyes as you grow older.

    Benefits and Studies

    • A clinical study done at the AlgaeCal Bone Heath Program showed that R-dihydro lipoic acid along with other vitamins is beneficial for bone density and overall bone health. As we age our bones also become weak from oxidative stress on the body. This stress can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis. Certain vitamins and minerals prevent bone loss, but R-DHLA shows promising results because it also reduces inflammation in the body.

      The GeroNova Research Center revealed that R-DHLA protects the brain and nervous system. The antioxidant feeds cells, reduces inflammation and improves digestive flora. Good bacteria helps to maintain a strong immune system and brain function. R-DHLA provides the body with a broad spectrum of protection against many health conditions and the effects of aging. Managing a healthy nervous system can lessen the effects of a stroke or prevent one altogether.

      The University of California showed that any form of lipoic acid provides therapeutic rejuvenating benefits for cells, which may improve the skin, including wrinkles and facial scars. Your skin regulates body temperature and keeps toxins out. However, the skin is also prone to oxidative stress and gradually becomes thinner and sensitive as you age. You can apply R-DHLA as a supplement cream directly to your skin.

    Sources

    • You can take R-dihydro lipoic acid in supplement form, but this antioxidant also comes from certain foods. Food sources include spinach, broccoli, dark leafy vegetables, chard, collard greens, liver, turkey, chicken, round steak and yeast. If you eat five to eight servings of vegetables daily you will get plenty of R-DHLA in your diet. Steam your vegetables to preserve precious vitamins and minerals.

    Warning

    • Talk to your doctor before taking high doses of R-DHLA in supplement form. Sometimes vitamin and herbal supplements interact with prescription medications. This does not happen when the body absorbs R-dihydro lipoic acid from food. Just be cautious about supplements.

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