How to take Alpha lipoic acid (ALA)?

Posted by rocr @rocr, Oct 2, 2024

Someone please let me know how to take ALA, with an empty stomach or with food.

Several reputable sites are in conflict on this one. Thank you.

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Cheryl, Volunteer Mentor | @cehunt57 | Dec 9, 2024

How did this discussion morph from alpha lipoic acid (ALA) to proton pump inhibitors (PPI)? Secondly in regards to medications, supplements, dose adjustments ….. etc. it is probably best to get input from your credentialed medical provider who knows your conditions and medical history (not Amazon or any other online sites or stores)! Remember people we are here to share our experiences and support each other. We don’t diagnose or prescribe.

artemis1886 | @artemis1886 | Dec 10, 2024

I just stopped after over five years of taking dexilant for stomach ulcers. Dexilant caused stomach nodules. When I stopped the nodules went away. I had no problems just stopping it.

haforn | @haforn | Jan 6 10:52am

I’m taking ALA once a day in the morning (Thorne) for prevention of neuropathy.

SusanEllen66 | @SusanEllen66 | Jan 6 4:49pm

In reply to @haforn "I’m taking ALA once a day in the morning (Thorne) for prevention of neuropathy." + (show)

@haforn I was not aware that ALA could PREVENT Neuropathy.

I take it to ease the symptoms of my polyneuropathy.

SusanEllen66 | @SusanEllen66 | Jan 6 4:52pm

@rocr what are the directions on the bottle?

Mine says to take it before a meal. I guess that means on an empty stomach.

haforn | @haforn | Jan 6 5:08pm

In reply to @SusanEllen66 "@haforn I was not aware that ALA could PREVENT Neuropathy. I take it to ease the..." + (show)

I am not sure if it actually prevents it, but I remember reading that it helps to support the nerves. 600mg is the dose that was used for the research. I am only taking 400mg daily. I do not have any neuropathy. I am additionally taking magnesium and Vitamin D (it is a coincidence that they are also good for the nerves). I have osteoporosis on my Spine, and trying to get it back to normal without medication (Vit K2-MK4, D, magnesium, calcium, protein, weight bearing exercises etc).

cydmar | @cydmar | Jan 22 11:29pm

In reply to @windyshores "PPI's do reduce absorption apparently. My friend is getting iron infusions after a long time on..." + (show)

Thanks for the info re: iron! I have been on omeprazole for several years and will unfortunately be on it long-term. My sphincter muscle between the esophagus and stomach doesn’t close completely, so it’s either the med, or a surgery that has its own problems.
I have been really tired lately and will mention the iron issue to my doc.

cydmar | @cydmar | Jan 23 11:27am

In reply to @SusanEllen66 "@haforn I was not aware that ALA could PREVENT Neuropathy. I take it to ease the..." + (show)

Do you find it helps? I am taking a combo of gabapentin and Effexor, but I have had to increase the dose of the gaba over the past two years and I don’t want to keep doing that.