Supplements for Peripheral neuropathy: Vitamins and More
There are many different supplements that people with peripheral neuropathy may find helpful. Some of the most popular supplements include omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, vitamin B12, and alpha lipoic acid.
Some people with neuropathy find that supplements help improve their symptoms. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, as they may not be safe for everyone.
Omega-3
One treatment option for peripheral neuropathy is omega-3 fatty supplements. Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids that have been shown to be beneficial for the treatment of neuropathic pain. They are thought to help improve nerve function and reduce inflammation. One study found that omega-3 supplements were effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Magnesium
It is a mineral essential for human health. It plays a role in many important bodily functions, including nerve function. Research has shown that magnesium supplementation can help improve symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy.
One study found that supplementing with magnesium improved pain, tingling, and numbness in people with diabetes-related neuropathy. Another study found that magnesium supplements were helpful in reducing pain and improving quality of life in people with peripheral neuropathy caused by chemotherapy.
B vitamins
B vitamins are essential nutrients that play important roles in the body. There are several different B vitamins, including vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), and vitamin B12 (cobalamin). These vitamins help your body convert food into energy and support various functions in the body.
More specifically, vitamin B12 is essential for healthy nerves and has been shown to improve symptoms in some people with neuropathy. Studies have shown that B12 supplements can improve nerve function in people with peripheral neuropathy.
If you are experiencing symptoms of neuropathy, talk to your doctor about whether vitamin B12 supplementation might be right for you.
Alpha lipoic acid
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant that is made in the body and helps protect nerve cells from damage. It is also available as a dietary supplement. ALA supplements are used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including peripheral neuropathy.
There is some evidence that ALA may be helpful for treating peripheral neuropathy in some people. One study found that ALA improved pain and nerve function in people with diabetic neuropathy. Another study found that ALA reduced symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
However, more research and studies are needed to determine whether ALA is effective for treating peripheral neuropathy. Talk to your doctor before taking an ALA supplement if you have this condition.
Acetyl-L-carnitine
A recent study published in the journal “Ploss One” suggests that acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) may be a useful supplement for treating peripheral neuropathy. The study found that ALC supplementation was able to improve nerve function and reduce pain in patients with peripheral neuropathy. ALC is a natural compound that helps to transport fatty acids into the cells of the body. It is available as a dietary supplement and can be found at most health food stores.
Curcumin
Curcumin is a compound found in turmeric that has been shown to help improve nerve function and reduce inflammation. A study found that participants who took a curcumin supplement for 12 weeks had improved nerve function and less pain than those who did not take the supplement. Curcumin supplements are available over the counter and are well tolerated. If you are experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, talk to your doctor about whether a curcumin supplement may be right for you.