Nerve pain can be as a result of different conditions, from exposure to substances that are toxic to some medical conditions, etc. Certain supplements may help reduce nerve pain and as the market is flooded with different supplements you need to identify the best supplements to help with your nerve pain. Before using any supplements make sure that they will not interfere with your other medication by checking with your doctor first. Below are five tips to help you find the best nerve pain supplements;
Alpha-lipoic acid
Alpha-lipoic acid supplements are powerful antioxidants excellent for treatment of nerve pain mostly caused by cancer or diabetes treatment. It is known for improvement of the nerve function, lowering the blood sugar levels and relieving pain, numbness, burning, itching, and prickling in both the arms and legs. If you are suffering from diabetic neuropathy, then alpha-lipoic acid supplements can help to protect you against oxidative damage.
B Vitamins
By encouraging a healthy nervous system, Vitamin B supplements are important for the treatment of neuropathy. Also, Vitamin B deficiency may lead to peripheral neuropathy. Although you require Vitamin B1, B6, and B12, peripheral neuropathy is mainly caused by a deficiency in Vitamin B12. Vitamin B-6 aids to maintain the nerve ending coverings while Vitamin B1 which is composed of benfotiamine and thiamine helps to reduce pain, cellular damage, and inflammation. They can all be taken as one complex or you can choose to take each vitamin separately.
Omega-3 fatty acids
The omega-3 fatty acids mostly found in fish oil contains anti-inflammatory properties and are important for nerve repair. As portrayed by a study conducted in 2007, fish oil has the ability to treat diabetic neuropathy. The fish oil works by slowing down the progression as well as reversing the condition. Apart from fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids are also found in flaxseed oil, walnuts, green leafy vegetables, hemp seed oil, and sardines etc.
Chromium
Patients suffering from diabetes are advised to take chromium supplements. This is because insulin resistance in the body is associated with the lack of chromium. Also, nerve damage can be caused as a result of high blood-glucose levels. Taking chromium supplements will help your body to effectively use insulin hence protecting your body from any related nerve damage. It is however recommended that before starting any chromium supplement regime, you should consult a physician first.
Acetyl-L-carnitine
This is an amino acid and an excellent antioxidant that is known to reduce neuropathy pain while boosting healthy nerve cells and revving up energy levels. In addition to supplements, other sources of acetyl-L-carnitine include poultry, dairy products, meat, and fish. Results from a study conducted in 2016 showed an improvement in fatigue caused by cancer as well as improved peripheral sensory neuropathy induced through chemotherapy.
Bottom Line
Most of these supplements help to ease discomfort that comes with neuropathy. However, it is wise to consult your doctor first so as to acquire all important information about the efficacy and safety of the supplement.
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