Vitamins For Neuropathy

Many people living with neuropathy constantly struggle to manage the pain associated with this condition. Luckily, there are many ways to manage symptoms, including unobtrusive ones, such as taking vitamins for neuropathy pain.

Ready to learn more about vitamin supplementation to see if it's right for your treatment plan? Are you curious to know what are the best vitamins for neuropathy? We've created a quick guide to some vitamins that may help with neuropathy pain.

What is the best vitamin for neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is one of the most common complications of diabetes. It can cause a wide variety of painful or uncomfortable symptoms, such as:

Low circulation and reduced blood flow in the feet and lower legs
Tingling, burning, or painful sensations in the extremities
Numbness or inability to feel pain or temperature
Increased sensitivity, especially to pressure
Related conditions such as infections, ulcers, sores, and more

If you're wondering which vitamins are good for neuropathy and would help alleviate these symptoms, the answer is quite a few! Some of the most common vitamins for neuropathy are listed below.

B vitamins

Vitamins B1, B12, and B6 could all be useful in helping to treat neuropathic pain. Why? Peripheral neuropathy impacts your nervous system; all B vitamins help keep your nervous system healthy and functioning. In fact, peripheral neuropathy may be caused by vitamin B deficiencies, especially vitamin B12.

They may also help mitigate neuropathy symptoms by protecting the nerves, promoting nerve repair, and decreasing pain caused by inflammation, making them one of the best vitamins for neuropathy.

Vitamin B can be found in various sources, including whole foods. Here's the list of foods rich in different B vitamins:

B1 (Thiamine): Whole grains, brown rice, liver, eggs, nuts, and seeds.
B2 (Riboflavin): Almonds, wild rice, milk, yogurt, eggs, Brussels sprouts, spinach, and soybeans.
B3 (Niacin): Chicken breast, tuna, turkey, salmon, lentils, peanuts, and fortified cereals.
B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Avocado, yogurt, eggs, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and chicken liver.
B6 (Pyridoxine): Chickpeas, lamb, salmon, chicken breast, fortified cereals, bananas, and potatoes with the skin.
B7 (Biotin): Eggs (especially the yolk), legumes, almonds, spinach, cheese, sweet potatoes, mushrooms and salmon.
B9 (Folate/Folic Acid): Leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale), beans, peas, lentils, avocado, and fortified grains.
B12 (Cobalamin): Animal products are the primary source, including beef, lamb, liver, chicken, fish, shellfish, milk, cheese, and eggs. For vegetarians or vegans, fortified foods or supplements are recommended.

Including a variety of these foods in your diet can help ensure you get enough of each type of B vitamin. Vegetarians and vegans must be aware of vitamin B12 sources, as B12 is primarily found in animal products. Fortified foods or supplements can be valuable B12 and other B vitamin sources for those who do not consume animal products.

Omega-3 fatty acids

These anti-inflammatory healthy fats help to control some symptoms of neuropathy pain. They also help slow the progression of neuropathy and allow for neuron renewal and healing.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. Thus, they must be obtained through diet. They are crucial for brain function and normal growth and development. There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids: ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). ALA is primarily found in plants, while EPA and DHA are primarily found in marine sources. Here's an expanded and medically accurate list of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids based on research:

Fish and Seafood:

Salmon: A popular source of EPA and DHA, particularly wild-caught salmon.
Mackerel: Small, fatty fish rich in EPA and DHA.
Sardines: Small, oily fish, which are among the most nutritious sources of EPA and DHA.
Anchovies: Tiny, oily fish often found in jars or cans, rich in EPA and DHA.
Oysters: They are a source of omega-3s and contain more zinc per serving than any other food.
Herring: A fish eaten around the world, known for its high EPA and DHA content.
Trout: Rainbow trout, particularly, are a good source of EPA and DHA.

Nuts and Seeds:

Walnuts: One of the richest plant sources of ALA.
Flaxseeds: Ground flaxseeds or flaxseed oil provides ALA, which the body can partially convert to EPA and DHA.
Chia Seeds: Like flaxseeds, chia seeds are a good plant-based source of ALA omega-3.
Hemp Seeds: Contains a good amount of ALA.

Plant Oils:

Flaxseed Oil: A leading source of ALA among oils.
Perilla Oil: Derived from the seeds of the Perilla frutescens plant, perilla oil is an excellent source of ALA omega-3 fatty acids. It's often used in Korean cuisine and can be a beneficial addition to a diet for those seeking plant-based sources of omega-3s.

Soybeans and Soy Products:

Soybeans: Both roasted soybeans and products made from soybeans, like tofu and tempeh, contain ALA.

Algae and Algae Oil:

A vegetarian source of EPA and DHA. Algae oil supplements are a good option for those who do not eat fish.

Other Foods:

Eggs: Some eggs are enriched with omega-3s through the chicken's diet (often labeled as omega-3 enriched).
Grass-fed Meat: Animals that eat grass have higher amounts of omega-3 fats in their meat compared to those fed grain-based diets.

Incorporating a variety of these foods into your diet can help ensure adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids. For vegetarians and vegans, or those who do not consume fish, algae oil supplements or foods fortified with EPA and DHA can be valuable sources to consider. It's also beneficial to consult with healthcare providers regarding omega-3 supplementation, especially for specific health conditions or dietary restrictions.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine

Acetyl-L-Carnitine is an amino acid believed to help combat fatigue, repair and protect nerve cells, and help reduce the pain that comes from neuropathy. It is primarily available in supplement form and animal by-products such as meat, fish, poultry, and dairy. While the body can produce L-carnitine, it can also be obtained through diet, especially from foods high in protein.

Foods particularly rich in L-carnitine, from which the body can also produce Acetyl-L-carnitine, include:

Red Meat: Beef and lamb are among the richest sources of L-carnitine. The redder the meat, the higher its L-carnitine content.
Poultry: Chicken and turkey also provide L-carnitine in smaller amounts than red meat.
Fish and Seafood: Especially cod and other fatty fish, which are good sources of L-carnitine.
Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and other dairy products contain L-carnitine. The content can vary, with whole milk being a good source.
Tempeh and Other Fermented Soy Products: While generally lower in L-carnitine than animal products, these can be good plant-based sources.

Although these foods contain L-carnitine, the amount of acetyl-L-carnitine produced from eating them may not be significant. Most dietary L-carnitine is absorbed in the form it is ingested, and only a small fraction is converted to acetyl-L-carnitine within the body. Therefore, supplements are often used to achieve specific therapeutic doses of acetyl-L-carnitine.

It's also important to note that the absorption rate of L-carnitine from food can be much higher than from supplements, with up to 54 - 87% of L-carnitine from food being absorbed compared to 14-18% from oral supplements. Nonetheless, direct supplementation might be considered in consultation with a healthcare provider for those specifically seeking the benefits associated with Acetyl-L-Carnitine, such as potential improvements in brain function and energy production.

Alpha-lipoic acid

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring antioxidant. It plays a critical role in the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, helping to convert glucose into energy. Beyond its fundamental role in energy metabolism, ALA has attracted attention for its potential therapeutic effects on various conditions, particularly those involving oxidative stress and inflammation, such as neuropathy and other chronic diseases.

Research has suggested that alpha-lipoic acid may help mitigate some of these symptoms. It's thought to improve neuropathic symptoms by promoting nerve repair and reducing oxidative stress, which is believed to contribute to nerve damage. Patients with diabetic neuropathy, in particular, may find ALA supplements beneficial, as several studies have shown improvements in symptoms like itching, numbness, and the painful burning sensations that are often associated with this condition.

However, despite promising findings, the scientific community agrees that more comprehensive studies are needed to fully understand the extent of ALA's benefits, its optimal dosing, and its long-term safety profile. While research continues, ALA remains a supplement of interest for its potential to support nerve health and manage chronic disease symptoms.

Alpha-lipoic acid is available in supplement form, which can provide a concentrated dose of ALA, often used for therapeutic purposes. For those looking to increase their intake through diet, ALA is found in various foods, although typically in lower amounts than what is available in supplements. Foods rich in alpha-lipoic acid include:

Dark Green Leafy Vegetables: Spinach, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are among the vegetables that contain alpha-lipoic acid, contributing to their antioxidant properties.
Red Meat: Beef and organ meats, particularly liver, are significant dietary sources of ALA, reflecting higher concentrations in animal tissues.
Brewer's Yeast: This supplement, often used in brewing beer and baking, is another source of alpha-lipoic acid.
Root Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, and beets contain alpha-lipoic acid, though in smaller amounts than dark leafy greens and meats.
Tomatoes and Peas: These vegetables also provide alpha-lipoic acid, adding to the variety of sources available through a balanced diet.

Incorporating these foods into your diet can contribute to your overall intake of antioxidants, including alpha-lipoic acid, supporting your body's defense against oxidative stress and inflammation. However, for individuals seeking the therapeutic benefits of ALA for conditions like neuropathy, supplements may offer a more effective approach. As always, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, particularly for managing health conditions.

Curcumin

One of the most common supplements for neuropathy pain is curcumin, a compound found in turmeric. Curcumin is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties and pain-relief effects.

It's available as an isolated powder or in powdered or fresh turmeric, making it easy to incorporate into your diet and lifestyle. For example, you can easily add dried or fresh turmeric to savory foods, smoothies, or drinks.

Before taking vitamins for neuropathy, we recommend consulting your doctor or healthcare provider. Certain supplements may interfere or interact with medications or other supplements, so always seek approval from a healthcare professional before adding new vitamins.

Supplement vitamins for neuropathy with other treatments and solutions

Taking vitamins for neuropathy can be a potent part of your treatment plan as some studies show that a deficiency can make the nerves susceptible to damage, but it shouldn't be the only way to help with treatment. Effective pain management for diabetes should include a wide range of options that fit your lifestyle, needs, and goals.

Other treatments for neuropathy include therapy, pain medications, lifestyle changes, and mechanical aids. Because diabetes and neuropathy can cause painful foot conditions, one must-have element in your treatment plan is a good pair of diabetic socks.

Much like vitamins for neuropathy pain, our diabetic socks are designed to help relieve some symptoms associated with diabetes and other conditions that cause pain and discomfort in the lower body. Not only can they help protect against foot injuries and problems, but they will also improve blood flow, decrease numbness, and help reduce swelling.

Viasox — high-quality diabetic socks to help manage pain

Here at Viasox, we're proud to be the world's first fancy online diabetic socks provider. We offer a complete range of compression socks — designed to apply pressure to your lower legs and feet — and incredibly stretchy diabetic socks specially created with comfort and support in mind.

Whether you're looking for a fun and funky new pattern to show off your style or something more traditional, you'll find it in our online collection. Shop the Viasox range online today to discover the affordable, effective, and fun diabetic socks your closet has been waiting for.