How might alpha lipoic acid help brain function?

There are several ways that alpha-lipoic acid may help your brain function at its best. Alpha-lipoic acid is a fatty acid found in every cell in your body. It is also available in red meat and yeast, and in supplements. It acts as an antioxidant in the body, meaning it may block the effects of free radicals -- cells that can damage tissues and organs.

There is good evidence that alpha-lipoic acid can get into the brain, and some research suggests it may help in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD): One small study found that cognitive decline was reduced in people with AD who took alpha-lipoic acid supplements. Research continues to explore whether alpha-lipoic acid could slow the progression of the disease.

In animal studies, alpha-lipoic acid seems to help in the treatment of strokes, brain hemorrhages and head trauma, but more study is needed. Talk to your doctor for more information about alpha-lipoic acid for brain health.