Alpha lipoic acid is a compound that helps generate energy for your cells. It is an excellent antioxidant and plays an important role in energy production. Alpha lipoic acid helps burn carbohydrates and fats for energy and protects cells from oxidative stress (1). Interestingly, although the human body can produce alpha-lipoic acid itself in small amounts, this is not enough to meet the needs of our cells. Therefore, we consume most of it with food. It is found in meat and some vegetables (2).