R-ALA and Magnesium

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""R-ALA (R-Alpha Lipoic Acid) and Magnesium can be safely taken together, as clinical databases like Drugs.com show no known negative interactions between them. In fact, combining these two supplements is a popular and effective strategy for managing nerve health, muscle relaxation, and metabolic support.""

I don't take ALA, but some here have reported side effects from taking it.

I take ALA in the morning as it is recommended that it be taken on an empty stomach and allow 30 minutes before eating. I also take Magnesium glycinate but in the evening. I take 2 capsules about one hour before going to bed and it works wonders. It helps relax me and I have had less leg cramping since taking it daily. I have never had any side effects from either of these and my neurologist is okay with my taking them.

I take a number of OTC medications including R-Alpha Lipoic Acid (the "R" is important: R-Alpha Lipoic Acid is the better choice because it is the naturally occurring, biologically active form of the antioxidant that your body produces and uses making it significantly more potent and bioavailable than standard Alpha Lipoic Acid which is often a synthetic mix).
With the R-Lipoic Acid, first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, I also take Acetyl L-Carnitine. Studies by the National Institute of Health indicate that this combination may improve age-related metabolic decline, support nerve and cognitive health, and help manage blood sugar regulation.
Regarding Magnesium Glycinate, I was advised to take it after eating (because of stomach issues) so I take it after breakfast.
Just because the above works for me (along with a number of other supplements) doesn't mean it would work for you. I spent much time researching the supplements that "could" help my IPN. Once I had the supplements I researched timing of the supplements and "strengths" of each supplement. Once I had my list together, along with my prescribed medications, I met with a hospital's physician (both an MD and a PharmD) to go over my list to (1) insure that I was getting the most out of what I was consuming on a daily basis and (2) insure there was no conflict with amount(s), timing and my prescribed medications. I received his "blessing" and did not need to change anything!

@mikead63 I had not heard that R-ALA should be taken on an empty stomach. I have read that the suggested amount is 1200mg / day. Does this mean it should all be taken at once, rather than spread over the day? - Cindy

@persistentc I've read that 600 mg does as well as 1200. I take 300 2x a day. Maybe I should try upping my dose..

@persistentc Cindy, I take 300mg of R-ALA 3 times a day. Before breakfast, lunch & dinner along with 500mg of Acetyl L-Carnitine. After each meal I take 1 capsule (400mg) of Magnesium Glycinate. Everyone should find their own "sweet spot" for what may work for them. Taking it on an empty stomach helps absorption.

@ronludington I was basing the 1200mg dose on what I have read in this group. Honestly I can't tell if it is doing anything for me at all.

@mikead63 good to know. Boy it sure does get complicated with all of these meds and supps to remember which need to be taken before vs after meals and which ones can't be taken together. I have a spreadsheet of meds and times which I will now need to break down into before/after tooa

@persistentc I don't believe 1200 hurts, just not needed, according to some med report I read a .ong timan find ite ago. Maybe I can find it

@persistentc I found this... but I do remember a medical study someplace that said anything over 600 was a waste. But who really knows. (Maybe 1200 if your taking just ALA..)
Recommended daily oral dosages for R-Lipoic Acid (R-ALA)—the biologically active form of alpha-lipoic acid—typically range from 100 mg to 600 mg depending on your health goal. Because R-ALA is more bioavailable than standard racemic ALA, you need a smaller dose to achieve the same effects.Appropriate dosages by goal include:General Antioxidant Support: 100 mg to 300 mg daily.Blood Sugar Support & Weight Management: 300 mg to 600 mg daily.Nerve Comfort (Neuropathy): 600 mg daily, either as a single dose or split into two 300 mg doses.How to take it:Timing: For maximum absorption, take R-ALA on an empty stomach—about 30 minutes before or 2 hours after a meal.Formulation: Look for "stabilized" R-Lipoic Acid (often listed as Sodium R-Lipoate), as the raw form is highly unstable and heat-sensitive.Disclaimer: High dosages (1,200 mg to 1,800 mg) can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects like nausea. If you are taking blood-glucose-lowering medications or have an underlying medical condition, consult your healthcare provider before starting.