Last Updated on October 9, 2022 by theworldofsleepstaff
Many people are interested in taking alpha lipoic acid (ALA) for its potential health benefits. However, there is some debate about whether taking alpha lipoic acid before bed is optimal.
Some people believe that taking ALA before bed may help improve the quality of sleep and provide other benefits, such as reducing inflammation and helping control blood sugar levels.
If you are trying to find out whether taking alpha lipoic acid before bed is a good idea or not, then read on to find out more.
Note: You must always consult your doctor before including a new supplement into your daily routine as only your doctor can explain any pros or cons that are specific to you. Some supplements may interfere with medications too.
But First: What Exactly Is Alpha Lipoic Acid?
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a type of fatty acid that is naturally present in the body. It’s considered an “essential” fatty acid because the body can’t make it on its own and must get it from the diet.
ALA may be found in small amounts in various plant and animal-based products, such as spinach, broccoli, yeast, and meat. However, because most people don’t consume enough ALA from their diet, they often require supplements to obtain the benefits.
Alpha lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that has a wide range of potential health benefits. For example, it’s believed to improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, and reduce inflammation.
Also, alpha lipoic acid has been shown to improve sleep quality. One study showed that taking 1,200 mg of alpha lipoic acid could be good in lessening the harmful effects of oxidative stress, which can affect sleep.
So, taking alpha lipoic acid before bed may be a good option if you’re looking for a natural way to improve your sleep quality.
However, it’s important to note that more research is needed to confirm the benefits of taking alpha lipoic acid before bed.
Alpha Lipoic Acid Before Bed: The Pros For Sleep
1. May Help Improve Sleep Quality
Alpha lipoic acid is a fat- and water-soluble antioxidant found naturally in your body. It’s also found in foods like spinach, broccoli, and animal organ meats.
ALA has several benefits for your health, including improved blood sugar control and reduced inflammation.
Some research shows that alpha lipoic acid may also help improve sleep quality.
More and more people are taking alpha lipoic acid before bed to help improve the quality of sleep.
2. May Help Reduce Inflammation
One of the main benefits of taking alpha lipoic acid is its anti-inflammatory effects.
Alpha lipo acid is a powerful antioxidant that can help to neutralize harmful free radicals in your body. Free radicals are molecules that can damage cells, leading to inflammation.
When inflammation is down, your sleep quality is likely to improve.
3. It Doesn’t Have Many Side Effects
Alpha lipoic acid tends to be a safe supplement with few side effects.
The most common side effect is usually mild gastrointestinal distress, such as bloating, gas, or diarrhoea.
If you experience side effects see, reduce your dose or take alpha lipoic acid with food. Remember to consult a doctor when introducing a new supplement into your diet.
Note: This article is not medical advice – this is only for information purposes.
4. May Help Control Blood Sugar Levels
If you have diabetes or prediabetes, taking alpha lipoic acid may help control your blood sugar levels.
ALA has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
Naturally, if your sleep is better, you’re less likely to experience blood sugar spikes at night.
This is important because blood sugar spikes can lead to restless nights and poor sleep quality.
Alpha Lipoic Acid Before Bed: THE Cons
Despite the potential benefits of taking alpha lipoic acid before bed, there are also some potential downsides.
1. May Cause Stomach Upset
One of the most common side effects of taking alpha lipoic acid is stomach upset. This can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
The reason could be that alpha lipoic acid is a fat-soluble antioxidant, which means the body does not easily absorb it.
If you have a sensitive stomach, taking ALA before bed may not be the best idea.
2. May Cause Low Blood Sugar Levels
If you have diabetes or prediabetes, taking alpha lipoic acid may cause your blood sugar levels to drop too low.
This is because alpha lipoic acid can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.
Taking alpha lipoic acid before bed may cause your blood sugar levels to drop too low if you take other medications to control your blood sugar levels.
This is why it’s essential to talk to your doctor before taking alpha lipoic acid if you have diabetes or prediabetes.
3. May Cause Allergic Reactions
Alpha lipoic acid can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to alpha lipoic acid can include itchiness, rash, and swelling.
Not many people are allergic to alpha lipoic acid. Still, if you’re allergic to other antioxidants, you may be at a higher risk of allergic reaction to alpha lipoic acid.
You must talk to your doctor before taking alpha lipoic acid if you have allergies.
4. May Cause Kidney Damage
Some users of this supplement say that taking alpha lipoic acid may cause kidney damage.
This could be because alpha lipoic acid can act as a blood thinner and increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
If you have a history of kidney problems, then taking alpha lipoic acid before bed may not be the best idea.
5. May Cause Headaches
Another common side effect of taking alpha lipoic acid is headaches.
This is likely because alpha lipoic acid can act as a blood thinner. Unfortunately, this means it can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
Taking alpha lipoic acid before bed may not be the best idea if you have a history of migraines or headaches.
Should You Take Alpha Lipoic Acid Before Bed?
There’s no denying that taking supplements can be beneficial to our health. But with so many different vitamins, minerals, and herbs, it can be hard to know which ones we should take and when. One supplement that has been getting a lot of attention lately is alpha lipoic acid (ALA).
ALA is a powerful antioxidant beneficial for various health conditions, including diabetes, liver disease, and nerve pain. Some people even take it as a way to help prevent ageing. But what about taking alpha lipoic acid before bed?
There’s no definitive answer as to whether or not you should take ALA before bed. Some recommend it, while others say it doesn’t make a difference. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what works best for your body and lifestyle.
When Should I Take Alpha-Lipoic Acid Morning Or Night?
There is no definitive answer to this question as the ideal time to take alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) may vary from person to person.
For example, some people may find that taking ALA in the morning helps to improve their energy levels and cognitive function, while others may prefer to take it at night to promote a restful night’s sleep.
Ultimately, it is up to you to see what works best for you.
Does Alpha-Lipoic Acid Interfere With Sleep?
No evidence suggests that alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) interferes with sleep.
In fact some people may find that taking ALA before bed helps them to sleep better because it is a powerful antioxidant that can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
However, it is essential to note that everyone is different, and some may find that taking ALA before bed causes them to feel restless or anxious. If this is the case, avoiding taking ALA before bed is best.
Dosage and Side Effects
When taken as a supplement, alpha lipoic acid is usually dosed at 50-600 mg daily – only your doctor can tell you the correct amount for you depending on your own individual case.
The most common side effect is mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or diarrhoea. In addition, if you have diabetes, taking alpha lipoic acid may lower your blood sugar levels too much, so it’s essential to monitor your blood sugar closely if you take this supplement.
If you’re considering taking alpha lipoic acid before bed, talk to your doctor first to ensure it’s safe.
What Are The Other Potential Benefits Of Taking Alpha-Lipoic Acid Before Bed?
1. It Boosts Metabolism
One of the main benefits of taking alpha-lipoic acid is that it can help to boost your metabolism. This is because alpha-lipoic acid plays a role in helping the body to convert glucose into energy.
So, taking alpha-lipoic acid before bed may be a good option if you want to increase your metabolism and burn more calories.
2. It Helps To Detox The Body
Another benefit of taking alpha-lipoic acid is that it can help to detox the body. This is because alpha-lipoic acid helps to remove toxins from the body, including heavy metals.
It is said that taking alpha-lipoic acid can also help to improve liver function and protect the liver from damage.
3. It Reduces Inflammation
Alpha-lipoic acid is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This means that it can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is beneficial if you suffer from conditions such as arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.
Taking alpha-lipoic acid before bed may also help reduce symptoms such as migraine headaches and psoriasis.
4. It Improves Brain Function
Another benefit of taking alpha-lipoic acid is that it can help to improve brain function. This is because alpha-lipoic acid helps to protect the brain from damage and improve cognitive function.
It is also said that taking alpha-lipoic acid can help to improve memory and reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
5. It Boosts Energy Levels
Finally, one of the other benefits of taking alpha-lipoic acid is that it can help to boost your energy levels. This is because alpha-lipoic acid helps convert glucose into energy, which means you will have more energy to get through your day.
So, if you are looking for a natural way to boost your energy levels, taking alpha-lipoic acid before bed may be a good option.
As you can see, there are several benefits of taking alpha-lipoic acid before bed. So, if you want to improve your health, taking alpha-lipoic acid may be a good option.
Of course, as with any supplement, it is always important to speak to your doctor before taking alpha-lipoic acid. This is because alpha-lipoic acid can interact with some medications, making it possible to have an allergic reaction.
So, if you are thinking about taking alpha-lipoic acid, then be sure to speak to your doctor first.
Things To Consider When Taking Alpha Lipoic Acid Before Bed
1. Make Sure You Are Taking The Correct Dosage
When taking any supplement, it is important to ensure that you take the correct dosage. Alpha lipoic acid is no different.
The recommended dosage of alpha lipoic acid can vary and only a healthcare professional can determine the best dosage for you.
Consider The Timing Of Your Dose
When taking alpha lipoic acid, it is important to consider the timing of your dose. It is often recommended to take alpha lipoic acid 30 minutes before a meal. However, some may find that taking it before bed works better for them. If unsure about the best time to take alpha lipoic acid, speak with a healthcare professional.
Check For Potential Interactions
Before taking alpha lipoic acid, it is essential to check for potential interactions. Alpha lipoic acid may interact with certain medications, so it is essential to speak with a healthcare professional before taking it.
Consider Your Overall Health
When taking any supplement, it is essential to consider your overall health. If you have any underlying health conditions, speak with a healthcare professional before taking alpha lipoic acid.
Taking alpha lipoic acid before bed may be a good option for some people. However, it is crucial to consider the timing of your dose, check for potential interactions, and consider your overall health before taking alpha lipoic acid. Speak with a healthcare professional to determine if taking alpha lipoic acid before bed is right for you.
Final Thoughts
Alpha lipoic acid is an essential nutrient for many functions in the body. It’s a fat- and water-soluble antioxidant which can quench free radicals in the fatty and watery parts of cells. Free radicals damage molecules from normal metabolism and exposure to environmental toxins like pollution, cigarette smoke, and ultraviolet light.
While alpha lipoic acid is found in some foods, it’s also available as a supplement. In addition, some people take alpha lipoic acid before bed for its potential benefits, which include better blood sugar control, reduced inflammation, and improved nerve function. However if you wish to try it, you should always ask your doctor for advice.
Note: This article is not medical advice – this is only for information purposes.