In the history of the Lycos 50, we've looked at a lot of medical fads that have risen in our search logs, from Enzyte to coral calcium. Each of these fads has seen momentary popularity online, without any backing from traditional medical sources.

Now, finally, we're getting searches for something that seems to have some medical basis. We're not sure why it is suddenly gaining momentum on our search logs, but interest in the antioxidant alpha lipoic acid is rising.

The main property of alpha lipoic acid is that it increases production of glutathione, which helps dissolve toxic buildup in the liver so it can be flushed out through the kidneys. It also helps make vitamins C and E work better, and it speeds up the body's metabolism.

That we know -- but websites selling the pills offer a number of other possible benefits, which may or may not really be present. Different websites claim that alpha lipoic acid normalizes blood sugar levels, protects the lens and retina of the eye from degeneration, alleviates glaucoma, treats food poisoning by toxic mushrooms, lessens the effects of diabetes, improves the physique, prevents cancer, and slows aging. Man, that is one powerful acid.

Put aside those histrionics, however, and you have a pill that really does some good. This article on Lycos Health calls taking alpha lipoic acid part of a three-step process to overhaul your unhealthy liver. This site backs up its claims with footnotes pointing to medical journals.

But why alpha lipoic acid, now? Who knows?

TOMORROW: The new Lycos 50.