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2/5 Weak evidence

Body composition evidence brief

Alpha-lipoic acid

Alpha-lipoic acid has metabolic and antioxidant research, but current evidence does not support it as a meaningful gym performance, pump, or physique supplement.

Metabolic claims, weak gym case health / recovery 6 linked sources Content audit 2026-05-04

Headline Finding

Obesity and glycemic meta-analyses show metabolic-marker research; trained-cyclist data do not support performance claims.

Dose Context

Clinical trials vary widely by population and dose; do not extrapolate diabetes, obesity, or antioxidant-marker outcomes to healthy lifters.

Important Caveat

Fat-loss and nutrient-partitioning claims are weak; medication interactions, glucose-lowering effects, and product quality need review.

Source Drawer

Linked Research

6 papers and evidence links - audit 2026-05-04
  1. Meta-analysis Obesity dose-response meta-analysis
  2. Meta-analysis Safety meta-analysis full text
  3. Meta-analysis Glycemic/inflammatory meta-analysis
  4. Review Type 2 diabetes dose-response review
  5. Trial Trained cyclists null RCT
  6. Trial Athlete recovery trial PDF

How To Read This Rating

The score reflects evidence that the supplement does its stated job. Some jobs are direct, such as strength, endurance, or recovery; others are indirect, such as sleep, mood, appetite, or health support. A real effect can still receive a cautious practical rating when dose, safety, product quality, or audience fit remain uncertain.

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Send the disputed claim, source link, and why it changes the practical verdict. Corrections that materially affect the claim, dose, caveat, or rating are prioritized.

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