Fuel Your Heart Health: Unveiling the Top Heart-Boosting Foods and Supplements with Dr. Luigi Gratton

Q: What is alpha lipoic acid and how does it support the heart?

A: Alpha lipoic acid (ALA), an ingredient in Herbalife Niteworks®, is a potent antioxidant first discovered in the 1950s and later recognized in 1988 for a variety of health-promoting activities. ALA works in the mitochondria, the body's energy-producing cells, where it has been shown to protect the DNA from damage. Many antioxidants, like Vitamin C, work well in areas of the body where there is water, while others, like Vitamin E, work well in areas of fat. ALA has the unique capability to work in both water and fat, and, moreover, helps to recycle our natural Vitamins C and E. In the heart, ALA helps protect the cardiovascular system from free radical damage.

Q: How does garlic contribute to cardiovascular health?

A: Garlic has long been recognized as a high-quality supplement to support healthy circulation and a healthy heart. One of the key active components is called allicin, which helps to support cholesterol lowering, antioxidant, blood thinning and antimicrobial activity. Garlic supplements should be specially coated to be effective because stomach acid inhibits activity. Herbalife developed Mega Garlic Plus with an enteric coating to safely pass through the stomach for full absorption.

Dr. Gratton also serves as Vice President of Medical Affairs and Education at Herbalife.

*The Nobel Foundation has no affiliation with Herbalife and does not review, approve or endorse Herbalife® products.