Your health questions answered by leading
doctor and nutritionist, Dr Rob Hicks
"Can you please tell me the difference between the various
types of linoleic acid ie, ALA and CLA?"
R G Breakwell, by email
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a slightly altered form of
linoleic acid (LA), an omega 6 fatty acid important for good
health. Research suggests that it may help to reduce body fat and
maintain muscle mass when combined with eating a healthy diet and
taking regular exercise. As well as being available in supplement
form it is also found in meats and dairy products. Alpha-lipoic
acid (ALA)
is a vitamin-like substance that is a very powerful antioxidant.
It′s actually more powerful than vitamins C and E, and in
fact, one of its effects is to regenerate antioxidants like these
and so enhance their effectiveness. It′s found in foods such
as spinach and meats. The other benefits of ALA include boosting
energy levels, reducing chronic fatigue, preservation of memory and
the treatment of symptoms due to nerve damage and liver damage.
"I have just read the May issue of the Healthspan magazine,
particularly the article on Acetyl-l-Carnitine and
Alpha-Lipoic-Acid. My question is this: Should they replace taking
vitamins C and E, or be used in conjunction with them? Also, what
dosage of ALC and ALA was used in the study referred to in the
article?"
Mr David Lenton, Warwickshire
These two super antioxidants can be used together with the
antioxidant vitamins C and E. In fact, it may be a good idea to do
so. In addition to its antioxidant role in protecting the body from
the damage caused by free radicals, vitamin C also helps to boost
immunity and aids wound healing and like vitamin E helps to
maintain healthy skin. One of the actions of ALA is the
regeneration of vitamins C and E, so enhancing their effectiveness.
Thus it makes good sense to take those vitamins in conjunction with
ALC and ALA since this should help you to gain all the benefits.
The dosage used in the study was 250mg Acetyl-L-Carnitine 200mg
Alpha Lipoic Acid. This is the same as in the Healthspan Lipo-Carn
supplement.
"Can you help? I am a 35-year-old injured sportsman and I
have been advised to take glucosamine and have been doing so since
my 
injury and found it of help. But I
have now been told that I have a high cholesterol level around
seven, I need to know whether the glucosamine affects LDL or
triglyceride levels (blood fats) in a positive or negative way. I
am also taking beta carotene and omega 3, as I do not wish to be
taking cholesterol tablets for the rest of my life (which I hope to
be long and energetic). Help?"
Mr Peter Lennox, Wiltshire
Glucosamine is a useful supplement for those who have suffered
joint injuries or who have developed osteoarthritis since it can
help to repair joints, maintain joint health and relieve symptoms
of joint pain. As far as I am aware it does not have any effect on
blood fat levels. In fact, if by taking the glucosamine you are
able to keep active and maintain your ideal weight, this will help
to lower your cholesterol levels. Taking a garlic supplement can
also help to lower cholesterol levels.
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