Relationship: Diabetic Retinopathy and alpha lipoic acid

Evidence supporting the use of: Alpha lipoic acid
For the health condition: Diabetic Retinopathy

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Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant that has been researched for its potential benefits in diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. The scientific justification for its use is based primarily on its antioxidant properties and its ability to potentially reduce oxidative stress, which is a key factor in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy. Preclinical studies (animal and cell models) have shown that ALA can protect retinal cells from hyperglycemia-induced damage and reduce markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in the retina.

Some small human studies and clinical trials have explored ALA in diabetic populations, focusing largely on diabetic neuropathy, but there is limited direct clinical evidence specifically for diabetic retinopathy. A few small-scale studies have suggested that ALA supplementation may slow the progression of early-stage diabetic retinopathy or improve retinal blood flow, but these findings are preliminary and not yet widely replicated. Systematic reviews highlight the need for larger, high-quality randomized controlled trials to confirm these benefits.

Overall, while laboratory and early human data are promising, robust clinical evidence in support of ALA for diabetic retinopathy is lacking, which is why the evidence rating is moderate to low (2 out of 5). Current guidelines do not recommend ALA as a standard treatment for diabetic retinopathy, but its use as an adjunctive therapy is being explored.

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Evidence supporting the use of: Alpha lipoic acid
For the health condition: Diabetic Retinopathy

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Evidence supporting the use of: Alpha lipoic acidFor the health condition: Diabetic Retinopathy

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Diabetic Retinopathy

Other health conditions supported by alpha lipoic acid

Products containing alpha lipoic acid

Evidence supporting the use of: Alpha lipoic acid
For the health condition: Diabetic Retinopathy