THeMaCHinE said:
Maybe you could explain your dosing protocol for some of the guys that are interested in losing weight without going into ketosis? Also, aside from BMI tests, the scale and mirror, would there be any tests readily available and home administratable that one could take to tell if they're in a favorable glycemic state (outside of ketosis)?
I don't really have a protocol for being outside of ketosis, however, fat loss can easily occur, although somewhat more slowly while on ALA just this side of the ketosis. IMO the higher doses are more for muscle preservation (reduced glycation) than for fat loss, however, low and moderate doses should allow at least some of the increased protein uptake of glucose. So at least the fat loss appears to occur as a result of reduced fat storage of intake rather than removal and conversion of excess fat.
Generally my protocol is that exercise is the higher the bodyfat content the lesser dose of ALA needed to create beneficial effect. However, not less in terms of dose needed for similar physiological reaction but less in terms of compared to a higher dose. The insulin response, or lack thereof, is IMO beneficial enough to warrant safe, long term fat loss in obese individuals. This has been suggested to occur at 600 mg within a time frame. More appears not to be of any benefit insofar as insulin effect is concerned. However, since the last few pounds are the hardest to lose and thus the higher dose might be a better option since the body will hold on to the last pounds.
Basically, a moderate dose of ALA will affect how ingested food is processed related to fat storage. Higher doses appear to affect the degree of muscle glucose uptake.
Of course this is nothing you're not already familiar with.
A blood glucose meter can help ascertain effect of ALA on general insulin. The limiting factor is determining a baseline. Preferred is a fasting blood glucose test and a post prandial blood glucose reading before starting ALA. Then it may be measured in intervals to determine how fast it takes for ALA to effect a change from baseline. Other than that, which is obviously a cost and hassle issue, the means you described is what I have used.
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