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Review
. 2017 May;18(5):594-601.
doi: 10.1111/obr.12528. Epub 2017 Mar 13.

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) as a supplementation for weight loss: results from a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

S Kucukgoncu  1 , E Zhou  1 , K B Lucas  1 , C Tek  1
Affiliations
Review

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) as a supplementation for weight loss: results from a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

S Kucukgoncu et al. Obes Rev. 2017 May.

Abstract

Objectives: Obesity is associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates. Even modest weight loss may be associated with health benefits. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring antioxidant. Studies have suggested anti-obesity properties of ALA; however, results are inconsistent. The purpose of this study is to conduct a meta-analysis of the effect of ALA on weight and body mass index (BMI).

Methods: A comprehensive, systematic literature search identified 10 articles on randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies involving ALA. We conducted a meta-analysis of mean weight and BMI change differences between ALA and placebo treatment groups.

Results: Alpha-lipoic acid treatment coincided with a statistically significant 1.27 kg (confidence interval = 0.25 to 2.29) greater mean weight loss compared with the placebo group. A significant overall mean BMI difference of -0.43 kg/ m2 (confidence interval = -0.82 to -0.03) was found between the ALA and placebo groups. Meta-regression analysis showed no significance in ALA dose on BMI and weight changes. Study duration significantly affected BMI change, but not weight change.

Conclusions: Alpha-lipoic acid treatment showed small, yet significant short-term weight loss compared with placebo. Further research is needed to examine the effect of different doses and the long-term benefits of ALA on weight management.

Keywords: Alpha-lipoic acid; body mass; diabetes; thioctic acid.

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Conflict of interest statement

Potential conflicts of interest: Authors report no competing interests

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Flow Chart Depicting Selection of Studies
Figure 2
Figure 2. Mean body weight differences between ALA treatment and placebo
Heterogeneity: Tau2=1.45; I2=68.12%; Q=25.98, d.f=8, p<0.001 Overall effect: Z=-2.442, p=0.015
Figure 3
Figure 3. Mean BMI differences between ALA treatment and placebo
Heterogeneity: Tau2=0.18; I2=73.24%; Q=29.90, d.f=8, p<0.001 Overall effect: Z=-2.139, p=0.033
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