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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