Neuropathy: Causes, Symptoms, and Management Options
Causes and Symptoms of Neuropathy
Neuropathy is a debilitating type of pain caused by injury or damage to nerves. Although many factors contribute to neuropathy, the imbalance between damaging free radicals and protective antioxidants (oxidative stress) is a significant contributor.
Supplements for Neuropathy
Some supplements may help manage neuropathic pain. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant supplements may reduce nerve damage and improve symptoms of neuropathy. However, whether research supports the use of these supplements for neuropathy is not well established.
1. Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Acetyl-L-carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid that reduces the number of pro-inflammatory molecules in the body and helps produce proteins that protect neurons.
Benefits include:
2. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an omega-3 fatty acid and antioxidant. Benefits include:
What Else Can You Do for Neuropathy?
Besides supplements, lifestyle modifications focusing on diet, stress, and movement can alleviate neuropathic pain.
Exercise
Exercise has the potential to reduce neuropathic pain. Certain forms of exercise are more effective than others at alleviating symptoms of different neuropathies.
Mindfulness
Participating in mindfulness therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) has reduced pain and improved the quality of life for people with different kinds of pain.
Summary
Supplements such as ALA and acetyl-L-carnitine may provide some relief from neuropathic pain. Limited data exists to support the use of other supplements, such as B vitamins, capsaicin, magnesium, GLA, and cannabidiol, for neuropathy. Maintaining adequate levels of B vitamins and magnesium may prevent the development of neuropathy due to nutrient deficiencies.
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