People with diabetes need antioxidant protection as much as anyone. Fortunately for them, though, ALA fights this insidious disorder in many other ways.
Diabetes occurs when the body can no longer effectively use glucose (blood sugar), its main energy source; ALA helps shepherd glucose out of the blood and into cells. It also interferes with glycosylation, a process in which glucose sticks to proteins such as the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) that carries cholesterol through the bloodstream. That's important because this "sticky" LDL can adhere to arterial walls, creating a major risk factor for heart disease. ALA combined with exercise appears to make insulinm the hormone that controls glucose usage, more effective. What's more, early research indicates that ALA can deflect another cardio hazard by interfering with the ability of salt to push blood pressure upward (Molecular and Cellular Biology 12/03).
Diabetes doesn't just attack the nerves and the heart - its effects are felt throughout the body. That's why scientist are examining whether ALA can tackle other diabetic complications: In lab studies it has forestalled diabetes-related kidney and eye damage. (Check blood-sugar levels regularly when using ALA, especially if you're taking other glucose regulators.)
