Summary: This week on Beating Neuropathy and Chronic Pain, we're talking about some of the nutritional components in treating neuropathy, particularly diabetic neuropathy. The first nutrient we'll talk about is Alpha-Lipoic Acid. ALA is one nutrient that is essential to health, and can speed the healing process in patients with diabetic neuropathy. ALA, like any other supplement, should not be taken alone. Often, low doses of supplements in combination with others work best. Most importantly, especially with ALA, blood sugar should be monitored closely. Stimulating metabolism with supplements may require a reduction in medications needed to manage blood sugar. Diabetics can especially benefit from vitamin D supplementation. One study in particular shows the reversal of diabetic neuropathy in a patient with Type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes by bringing vitamin D levels up. Vitamin D is important for everyone, especially for those of us living in temperate or cold climates and don't get a lot of sun exposure throughout the year. Keep your vitamin D levels closely monitored and maintained by working with your physician. Another study shows that Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) may be able to prevent neuropathy in those with Type 2 diabetes. CoQ10 helps to serve as a protector of cell membranes. Deficiencies can come from aging, taking statin medications, and poor diet. CoQ10 and ALA are sometimes used in combination because of their additive effects. Patients taking anticoagulants such as Coumadin should exercise caution when taking CoQ10 or glucosamine. The last study we'll look at today shows that a vegetarian diet can improve insulin resistance in those with Type 2 diabetes. A plant-based diet is high in antioxidants, which maintain cell health. Because we are all different biologically (bioindividuality), not every regimen will work the same for everyone. Please be clearly aware of all drug-nutrient reactions. When buying supplements, make sure they are of the highest grade (sometimes called "nutraceutical") available. Keep in touch with us through email or on Facebook! Thank you for listening (or reading)!
