There are several ways to get rid of excess weight. Physical exercise and a strict diet have traditionally been the most effective remedies. Are you exercising, eating right, but still not losing weight? Perhaps the problem lies in a slow metabolism, which lipoic acid will help improve.
Lipoic (thioctic or alpha-lipoic) acid belongs to the group of vitamins and natural antioxidants.
Among the main properties of lipoic acid, the following can be distinguished: normalization and acceleration of metabolic processes in the body, neutralization of poisons and the removal of free radicals from the body, maintaining the normal functioning of the pancreas, a beneficial effect on vision and the cardiovascular system, as well as lowering blood sugar levels.
Mechanism of action
Lipoic acid is involved in two important processes for the human body. First, as an antioxidant, it removes free radicals from cells, protecting them from destruction. This property of lipoic acid provides the processes of cellular rejuvenation and recovery. In addition, alpha-lipoic acid binds and removes heavy metals from the body, including mercury and lead.
Secondly, it is a mediator in the processes of energy metabolism at the cell level. This means that when it is deficient, the cell cannot consume nutrients and convert them into energy.
Effect on metabolism
This substance directly affects the suppression of hunger and the acceleration of metabolic processes in the body. Fat reserves in the body begin to be consumed, breaking down into simple substances that can easily be converted into energy. Then lipoic acid starts the mechanism of burning energy molecules. That is why training becomes more intense and effective.
The use of lipoic acid for weight loss is explained by its ability to speed up the metabolism by breaking down carbohydrates into simple sugars (glucose), which are quickly converted into energy, and not into body fat.
Also, this vitamin reduces appetite and helps to restore damaged nerve fibers, liver cells and blood vessels.
Lipoic acid also has the ability to reduce wrinkles and stretch marks on the body, making the skin more elastic.
When combined with lipoic acid preparations with intense physical activity, there is an increase in endurance during training, that is, this substance acts as an energy drink.
Sources
The body produces small amounts of lipoic acid on its own. But the lifestyle of a modern person with low physical activity, malnutrition, poor environmental conditions makes us work at the limit of physiological capabilities, many organs and systems of the body suffer from this. As a result, there is a need for additional sources of lipoic acid. The lack of this substance leads not only to a decrease in the intensity of metabolic processes and the accumulation of body fat, but also negatively affects the functioning of the immune, nervous and cardiovascular systems.
Lipoic acid is found in beef, dairy products, liver and kidneys, as well as rice, spinach, cabbage and broccoli.
At a more mature age (after 30 years), there is a need for additional sources of lipoic acid. The most convenient way to inflammation of the lack of this substance is to take dietary supplements.
Disease prevention
Currently, studies are underway on the effectiveness of lipoic acid in the prevention of diabetes and cancer. People with diabetes are required to take drugs based on this substance throughout their lives. Lipoic acid not only lowers blood sugar levels, but also helps the body absorb insulin better. And the antioxidant properties allow lipoic acid to fight cancer.
Daily rate
For a healthy person who does not adhere to a specific diet, 25-50 mg of lipoic acid per day is enough. People suffering from metabolic disorders and high blood sugar levels are prescribed higher doses of lipoic acid preparations. A doctor should prescribe the drug, since among the side effects of an overdose of lipoic acid, nausea, vomiting, allergic reactions and headaches are noted.
You should not combine the intake of lipoic acid with alcohol and iron-containing drugs. The intake of this substance is strictly prohibited during pregnancy and lactation.
How to use lipoic acid for weight loss
Before using lipoic acid, you should consult a dietitian to adjust your diet and find the best dosage of this drug.
In order to lose weight, doctors recommend taking a daily dose of lipoic acid in three doses: before or after breakfast, after exercise and after dinner.
To achieve the maximum effect of improving metabolic processes, it is very important to observe the daily routine, eat right and play sports. Applying these methods in a complex way, you will certainly say goodbye to extra pounds.
Reviews about the drug
The results of the action of dietary supplements based on lipoic acid are mainly expressed by women, whose average age is 30-45 years. Some of them managed to achieve the result of weight loss by an average of 3 kilograms in two weeks without changing their habitual lifestyle.
If you combine taking the drug with physical activity, for example, daily walks before going to bed for at least two hours or fitness classes, you can achieve a result of minus 5-6 kg in two weeks.
Almost everyone who took lipoic acid noted a significant decrease in appetite, an improvement in skin condition and a general increase in tone.
