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Whenever we put up information on alternative
treatments that have not been properly/Scientifically tested, we
receive a few angry emails. |
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Alpha-Lipoic acid: However, they discovered that vitamin-K and, in
particular, lipoic acid were highly efficient in killing colon cancer
cells. Using a 10:1 ratio of vitamin C to lipoic acid had a synergistic
effect and this mixture killed 50 per cent of all cancer cells at a
concentration of only 4.5 mM. The researchers conclude that it would
be feasible to obtain this concentration by intravenous infusion and
urge further work to investigate the use of a combination of vitamin
C and lipoic acid as an anti-cancer agent in humans.
Over the past few years, the pace of research on lipoic acid has increased dramatically. Last year, Lester Packer, PhD, of the University of California, Berkeley, published a lengthy review article on alpha-lipoic acid in Free Radical Biology & Medicine (1995;19:227-50). In April 1996, he presented a short review of it in the same journal (FRBM;20:625-6). Several qualities distinguish alpha-lipoic acid from other antioxidants, and Packer has described it at various times as the "universal," "ideal," and "metabolic" antioxidant. It neutralizes free radicals in both the fatty and watery regions of cells, in contrast to vitamin C (which is water soluble) and vitamin E (which is fat soluble). The body routinely converts some alpha-lipoic acid to dihydrolipoic acid, which appears to be an even more powerful antioxidant. Both forms of lipoic acid quench peroxynitrite radicals, an especially dangerous type consisting of both oxygen and nitrogen, according to a recent paper in FEBS Letters (Whiteman M, et al., FEBS Letters, 1996; 379:74-6). Peroxynitrite radicals play a role in the development of atherosclerosis, lung disease, chronic inflammation, and neurological disorders. Alpha-lipoic acid also plays an important role in the synergism of antioxidants, what Packer prefers to call the body's "antioxidant network." It directly recycles and extends the metabolic lifespans of vitamin C, glutathione, and coenzyme Q10, and it indirectly renews vitamin E. In Germany, alpha-lipoic acid is an approved medical treatment for peripheral neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes. It speeds the removal of glucose from the bloodstream, at least partly by enhancing insulin function, and it reduces insulin resistance, an underpinning of many cases of coronary heart disease and obesity. The therapeutic dose for lipoic acid is 600 mg/day. In the United States, it is sold as a dietary supplement, usually as 50 mg tablets. (The richest food source of alpha-lipoic acid is red meat.) "From a therapeutic viewpoint, few natural antioxidants are ideal," Packer recently explained in Free Radical Biology & Medicine. "An ideal therapeutic antioxidant would fulfill several criteria. These include absorption from the diet, conversion in cells and tissues into usable form, a variety of antioxidant actions (including interactions with other antioxidants) in both membrane and aqueous phases, and low toxicity." "Alpha-lipoic acid...is unique among natural antioxidants in its ability to fulfill all of these requirements," he continued, "making it a potentially highly effective therapeutic agent in a number of conditions in which oxidative damage has been implicated." Other research on alpha-lipoic acid has shown that it might:
reduce ischemia/reperfusion injury to the heart and brain. (Schonheit K, et al., Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, 1995;1271:335-42; and Cao X and Phillis JW, Free Radical Research, 1995;23:365-70); and inhibit the activation of "nuclear factor
kappa-B," a protein complex involved in cancer and the progression
of AIDS. (Suzuki YJ, et al., Biochemical & Biophysical Research
Communications, 1992;189:1709-15).
OVERVIEW How is it promoted for use? What does it involve? Supplements are available in health food stores and on the Internet, but high doses of any antioxidant supplement may actually cause cell damage. A safe and effective dosage of this supplement has not been established. What is the history behind it? What is the evidence? Are there any possible problems or complications? References Bustamante J, Lodge JK, Marcocci L, Tritschler HJ, Packer L, Rihn BH. Alpha-lipoic acid in liver metabolism and disease. Free Radic Biol Med. 1998;24:1023-1039. Carper J. The 5 most important antioxidants. Start taking these supplements when you're young and healthy-and stay that way! USA Weekend (Final Edition). April 4, 1999;8. Fremerman S. Alpha-lipoic acid. Natural Health. 1998;27:151. Han D, Sen CK, Roy S, Kobayashi MS, Tritschler HJ, Packer L. Protection against glutamate-induced cytotoxicity in C6 glial cells by thiol antioxidants. Am J Physiol. 1997;273:R1771-1778. Packer L, Witt EH, Tritschler HJ. alpha-Lipoic acid as a biological antioxidant. Free Radic Biol Med. 1995;19:227-250. Note: This information was reprinted from the
American Cancer Society's Guide to Complementary and Alternative Methods.
Copyright(c)2000, American Cancer Society. This information may not
cover all possible claims, uses, actions, precautions, side effects
or interactions, is not intended as medical advice, and should not be
relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor who is
familiar with your medical needs. What Is It? In the late 1980s, scientists realized that alpha-lipoic acid, a compound initially classified as a vitamin when it was discovered three decades earlier, possessed potent antioxidant properties that could prevent healthy cells from getting damaged by unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals. In fact, this vitaminlike compound has proved to be many times more potent than such old guard antioxidants as vitamins C and E. As a perk, it even recycles C and E (as well as other antioxidants), enhancing their effectiveness. Because it dissolves in both water and fat, this so-called "universal antioxidant" is able to scavenge more wayward free-radical cells than most antioxidants, the majority of which tend to dissolve in either fat or water but not both. Alpha-lipoic acid can reach tissues composed mainly of fat, such as the nervous system, as well as those made mainly of water, such as the heart. Also known as lipoic acid or thioctic acid, alpha-lipoic acid is mainly derived from dietary sources (spinach, liver, brewer's yeast), although scientists have discovered that the body does manufacture small supplies of its own. In order to get the concentrated doses needed to treat specific ailments, however, many experts recommend supplements. Health Benefits In addition to functioning as an antioxidant, this hard-working nutrient assists the B vitamins in producing energy from the proteins, carbohydrates, and fats consumed through foods. Intravenous forms of alpha-lipoic acid are administered in hospitals to treat cases of acute mushroom poisoning and for other cases of acute poisoning that affect the liver. Studies indicate that alpha-lipoic acid supplements hold promise for treating various disorders, including HIV infection, liver ailments, and glaucoma. But it has been most intensively studied for preventing complications from diabetes. Specifically, alpha-lipoic acid may help to:
Alpha-lipoic acid may also aid the large percentage (approximately 25%) of people with diabetes who risk sudden death from nerve-related heart damage. In one study, improved heart function was observed in people at risk for this complication who took 800 mg of alpha-lipoic acid daily for four months.
Prevent cancer. As an antioxidant, alpha-lipoic acid holds promise for protecting the body against changes in healthy cells that lead to cancer. The evidence for this cancer-preventive effect is still preliminary, however. Lessen numbness and tingling. Alpha-lipoic acid may benefit anyone whose limbs tend to tingle or become numb, or "fall asleep" due to nerve compression. In animal studies, alpha-lipoic acid increased blood flow to the nerves and improved transmission of nerve impulses. Protect the liver in cases of hepatitis and other types of liver disease. As an antioxidant, alpha-lipoic acid shields the liver from potentially harmful cell changes and assists it in flushing toxins from the body. This makes it useful in treating such liver disorders as chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis. Alpha-lipoic acid supplements have also proved effective in minimizing liver toxicity following exposure to poisons such as heavy metals (including lead) and toxic industrial chemicals such as carbon tetrachloride. Combat chronic fatigue syndrome. Because it plays a part in cellular energy production, some nutritionally oriented physicians recommend alpha-lipoic acid for the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome. While evidence of its effectiveness for this condition is anecdotal, alpha-lipoic acid is a broad-spectrum antioxidant and immune system booster. This means it may be able to play a valuable role in increasing energy and maintaining overall health in chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers. Reduce the incidence of cataracts. Alpha-lipoic acid has kept cataracts from forming in animals, an effect that may occur in humans, too, but still requires more investigation. The compound also increases the potency of vitamins C and E, both nutrients that protect the eye's lens from harmful ultraviolet light. Forms tablet Special tip: You can buy alpha-lipoic acid either as a single supplement or in combination products with other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E.
To preserve brain function in aging adults: Take 100 mg twice a day. To prevent complications of diabetes: Take 200 mg twice a day to guard against related conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and heart disease. In addition, make sure to get 1,000 mg vitamin C and 400 IU vitamin E daily. For diabetic neuropathy: Take 200 mg three times a day. For numbness and tingling: Take 200 mg twice a day. For hepatitis: Take 100 mg twice a day. In addition, take 1,000 mg vitamin C and 400 IU vitamin E daily. For preventing cataracts: Take 100 mg twice a
day. Guidelines for Use
General Interaction
Possible Side Effects
Cautions
Don't take alpha-lipoic acid if you are pregnant
Alpha Lipoic Acid 200mg 60t SN 0395 $NZ24.05 Secure
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Cancer cells hide after Chemotherapy
and Radiation
After the initial doses of radiation and/or chemotherapy, cancer
cells start hiding.
" They develop a slime coating, and they become like Stealth
bombers, and they can hide from future doses of radiation and chemotherapy.
This is why repeated dose of radiation and chemotherapy become less effective".Dr.
John Maras, Nu-Gen Educational Library.
" The way to get rid of this "slime coating" is to
use large doses of plant and animal enzymes- especially bromelain and pancreatin.
This allows an 'access point' for the immune system to attack the cancer
cells".....Dr. John Maras, Nu-Gen Educational Library
What doctors say about Chemo Therapy
?
"The world is a dangerous
place to live; not because of the people who are evil, but because
of the people who don't do anything about it."
Albert Einstein A Sad day for Alternative healing |
NOTICE: Due to FDA TGA MOH (plus other institutions with a vestige interest) regulations and various state laws, no medical claims can be made for alternative therapys and technology. All of the information expressed herein must be considered theoretical and unproven and for experimental research only |
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