The Vital and Protective Role of Alpha Lipoic Acid in Blood Sugar Metabolism and Insulin Sensitivity
Numerous studies have explored and affirmed the benefits of Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) in insulin function, glucose metabolism, and in it's protective role as an antioxidant. In sugar metabolism, ALA fulfills a critical role as a cofactor for enzymes involved in cellular glucose utilization, and it enhances the role of insulin function in the uptake of glucose into the cells.
As an antioxidant, In ALA mediates a vital and protective role in moderating oxidative stress that is a by product of elevated blood sugar, and elevated lipids (LDL cholesterol, triglycerides),(1) that are typical and concomitant features of Metabolic syndrome (MetS)*, and type 2 diabetes.(2,3)
Lowering Your Cholesterol and Triglycerides with Nuts and Fish
Posted by Ralph Sanchez, L.Ac.,CNS,D.Hom on 8/13/2011
to Heart Health
Higher consumption of omega 3 fatty acids (O3s), found amply in fish and nuts, are linked to reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease. Omega 3 fish oil therapy is typically implemented for lowering triglycerides.
On the heels of earlier studies investigating the benefits of nut consumption on lowering cholesterol, a new study that compared the benefits of walnuts versus fish on serum lipids (fats), reveals that the O3s derived from walnuts were indeed beneficial for lowering cholesterol. According to findings published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (AJCN), a diet supplemented with walnuts led to reductions in cholesterol levels, while a fish diet led to reductions in blood levels of triglycerides. (1)
|
