ALA plays a large role as an anti-oxidant. When ALA is on its own it can directly neutralize free radicals both in membranes and insides cells because it is both water and fat soluble. This ability to neutralize free radicals is an extremely important benefit of lipoic acid. Yet it is in union with other antioxidants that ALA can really show its strength. ALA can mimic other antioxidants but also improve their performance because it replenishes them. When one antioxidant molecule neutralizes a free radical, it actually turns it into a stable form.
ALA can be found in foods such as meats and vegetables, especially spinach. It is easily absorbed into the bloodstream, and it can also cross the blood brain barrier. Two of the best natural sources of lipoic acid are yeast and liver, but the body can synthesize it when necessary and it is available as a supplement.
