Lipoic Acid Continues to Show Its Value

Researchers have discovered a possible explanation for the surprisingly large range of biological effects that are linked to a micronutrient lipoic acid: It appears to reset and synchronize circadian rhythms, or the "biological clock" found in most life forms.

The ability of lipoic acid to help restore a more normal circadian rhythm to aging animals could explain its apparent value in so many important biological functions, ranging from stress resistance to cardiac function, hormonal balance, muscle performance, glucose metabolism and the aging process.

The findings were published in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications. The research was supported by the National Institutes of Health, through the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Almost one-third of all genes are influenced by circadian rhythms, and when out of balance they can play roles in obesity, cancer, heart disease, inflammation, hormonal imbalance and many other areas.