Answer: The main dietary source of alpha-lipoic acid is red meat. You can take it in supplement form, and is beneficial for those people who have diabetes. Alpha-lipoic acid works as a co-factor for many key enzymes, and facilitates reactions that provide the body with energy.

Alpha-lipoic acid is a potent antioxidant. This means it has numerous benefits.

Alpha-lipoic acid enhances the actions of glutathione, which is a star performer boosting your immune system. It also detoxifies the liver. You can take it in supplement form. It is beneficial for those people who have diabetes. If you would like informa tion on diabetes, write to me at the end of this column.

Question: Why do we Westerners seem to have excess pounds, and are overweight most of the time? I know I need to manage my weight, and how can I do it the smart way, the easy way and correct this bad health habit? Pelican Bay Naples Fla.

Answer: There are several ways to manage your weight the smart way.

By reducing excess pounds, planning your menu according to your chemistry, eating healthier meals and controling your portion sizes.

Your goal weight needs to be tailored to your energy cycle, eating habits and the foods you eat. This is a frustrating problem most people face all over the world.

Since you mentioned you were twenty pounds overweight, it is more than a problem of appearance. Weight- loss strategies that include vigorous style exercises, liposuction, fad diets and diet pills, all fail because they “do not address the root cause of weight gain.” Cutting down on some of the dangerous carbohydrates is today’s most popular diet plan. However, all protein diet programs have serious flaws. Carbohydrate foods of high quality nutritious benefits, add many essentials vitamins and minerals that your body needs to maintain good health.

Use caution, as some people on no-carb diets often report negative side effects, such as headache, fatigue and dizziness. A personal nutritional formula based on your nutritional deficiencies can offer a wiser alternative to managing weight. Key nutrients will offer you several exciting ways to help you lose weight. A sensible menu plan lets you overcome causes of excess fat, and weight gain. It is recommended that all persons who want to lose weight give it their sincerest best try, and there is possibilities of new found health! Never give up, and keep on trying. See your doctor or nutritionist for further information.