According to a report released by the Neuropathy Association an estimated over 20 million individuals suffer from mild to severe forms of Neuropathy.
This painful and debilitating condition can significantly decrease a patient’s quality of life and can result in serious complications including foot ulcers, cardiac arrhythmias, and death.
There are numerous medications that are used to control the symptoms of Neuropathy, but there are also natural supplements that have been proven to reduce the symptoms without the side effects associated with many medications.
Benfotiamine
Benfotiamine is a man-made form of vitamin B1.
It is also known as thiamine, a vitamin that is essential for nerves to function properly.Taking a vitamin B1 supplement ensures that the body has adequate levels of B1 in it which can result in a decrease in the symptoms of Neuropathy.
It has been shown to be particularly effective in decreasing pain associated with Diabetic Neuropathy and it also reduces microvascular damage that results from frequent high blood sugar levels.
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 (also known as riboflavin) is an antioxidant that works to make certain the nervous system is properly functioning and fights off free radicals in the body that cause pain. Physicians have found that having a deficient amount of vitamin B2 can lead to or worsen the symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy. This vitamin is easily obtained.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 (commonly called pyridoxone), is an essential vitamin that is required in sufficient levels for fat, carbohydrate, and protein metabolism.
Deficient levels in the body can result in fatigue, moodiness, irritability, and Neuropathy. Researchers have found that almost all diabetics suffering from Neuropathy have a vitamin B6 deficiency resulting in worsening symptoms.
As a result supplementation provides the amount the body requires and symptoms of Neuropathy decrease.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 (also referred to as methylcobalamine) is necessary to protect the body against neurological diseases. High levels of methylcobalamine have been proven to regenerate neurons and the myelin sheath that provides protection for the nerve axons and peripheral nerves. Patients that have received injections of vitamin B12 in the form of methylcobalamine have reported decreased Neuropathy symptoms as well as improved balance and less weakness.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D promotes nerve and neuron growth. Deficient levels of Vitamin D have been determined to impair pain receptor function, increase the potential for nerve damage, and to be a risk factor for Diabetic Neuropathy.
Recent research has found that Vitamin D supplementation can slow down progression of the condition and significantly decreases the amount of neuropathic pain felt. Vitamin D is usually accompanied by Vitamin A.
R-Alpha Lipoic Acid
R-Alpha Lipoic Acid is an antioxidant produced by the body and found in all cells.
Studies have shown that its effectiveness at killing free radicals proves beneficial to patients suffering from Peripheral Neuropathy.
Patients who have received this in IV form report decreased burning, tingling, itching, and numbness associated with nerve damage. It has also decreased symptoms associated with autonomic Neuropathy when taken orally.
Natural Herbs
There are also numerous herbs available that have proven to be beneficial in the reduction of Neuropathy symptoms.
Feverfew Extract has been found to help control the symptoms of Neuropathy, specifically nerve pain. Oat Straw Extract acts to decrease general pain, nerve pain, and helps sooth the itchy skin that some patients develop with Neuropathy.
Skullcap Extract works to cause a tranquilizing effect on the nervous system.
It has a tremendous impact on decreasing Neuropathy symptoms including pain and tingling.
Finally, Flower Passion is an herb that has been found to eliminate symptoms especially nerve pain. Many patients take more than one supplement for maximum relief.
Before beginning any supplements it is essential to speak with your physician to find out if there may be any possible interactions with your current medicine regimen and to determine what dosages are appropriate for you.
Be aware that most patients report it takes approximately three weeks to begin seeing the benefits associated with taking these supplements.
In the end my philopshy on neuropathy is you cannot sit and do nothing! We know that the neuropathy will continue to get worse no matter what. So why not take a chance.
God Bless
Dr. Thai