Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) vs Quercetin

Mechanism

ALA is a dithiol compound that functions as a cofactor for mitochondrial alpha-keto acid dehydrogenases (pyruvate dehydrogenase, alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase). Both ALA and its reduced form DHLA are potent antioxidants capable of regenerating other antioxidants including vitamin C, vitamin E, and glutathione. ALA activates AMPK, improving glucose uptake via GLUT4 translocation, and modulates NF-kB-mediated inflammatory signaling. It chelates redox-active metals (Fe2+, Cu2+).

Standard Dosing

300-600mg R-ALA daily

Timing

On empty stomach, 30-60 min before meals. Split doses for higher amounts.

Cycle Duration

ongoing or cycle 12 weeks on, 4 weeks off

Side Effects

• GI upset/nausea
• Skin rash
• Hypoglycemia symptoms
• Body odor changes

Contraindications

• Thiamine (B1) deficiency (ALA increases thiamine demand)
• Hypoglycemia-prone individuals without monitoring
• Autoimmune thyroid conditions (monitor thyroid function)

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Mechanism

Quercetin is a flavonoid that inhibits mast cell degranulation and histamine release, functions as a potent senolytic (selectively clearing senescent cells) when combined with dasatinib or fisetin, and activates AMPK and SIRT1 pathways. It inhibits PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling, suppresses NF-kB, and modulates JAK-STAT inflammatory cascades. As a zinc ionophore, it facilitates zinc entry into cells, which may inhibit viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase.

Standard Dosing

500-1000mg daily

Timing

With meals for absorption. For senolytic effect: 3-day pulse monthly on empty stomach.

Cycle Duration

ongoing for general use; pulsed monthly for senolytic protocols

Side Effects

• Headache
• Mild GI upset
• Tingling extremities at high doses
• Rare: kidney toxicity at very high doses

Contraindications

• Pregnancy/lactation at high doses
• Concurrent cyclosporine therapy

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