By News18
Diabetic neuropathy, a common complication of uncontrolled diabetes can cause burning, tingling, numbness, and sharp pain, especially in the feet and hands. While medications are available, many people turn to natural remedies to manage this discomfort, often with encouraging results.
1. Nutritional Supplements That Support Nerve Health
Certain supplements have shown promise in easing diabetic nerve pain. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), a powerful antioxidant, may improve nerve function and reduce symptoms like burning and numbness when taken in doses of 600鈥800 mg daily.
Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC), another nutrient found in the body, has been studied for its ability to regenerate nerve fibers and relieve pain. B vitamins, especially B12 and benfotiamine (a form of B1), are crucial for nerve repair, and deficiencies are common in people with diabetes.
Dr. Vijay Viswanathan, Chief Diabetologist, M.V. Hospital for Diabetes, Chennai, emphasizes, 鈥淧roper nutrition, especially supplementation of B vitamins and antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid, plays an essential role in both preventing and managing diabetic neuropathy.鈥
Low levels of vitamin D and magnesium have also been linked to increased pain perception in diabetics, and correcting these deficiencies may help reduce nerve sensitivity.
2. Exercise & Blood Flow
Gentle daily activity like walking, yoga, or swimming can help improve blood flow to nerves and reduce symptoms over time. Regular movement also helps manage blood sugar, a key factor in preventing neuropathy from progressing.
Dr. A. Lee Dellon, a renowned peripheral nerve surgeon, Johns Hopkins, notes, 鈥淚mproving circulation through light exercise and foot care is essential. Many patients report less pain simply by staying active and protecting their feet.鈥
3. Topical Relief and Soaks
Warm water foot baths with Epsom salts can soothe aching nerves, while creams containing capsaicin (derived from chili peppers) help reduce pain by numbing overactive nerve endings.
4. Mind-Body Approaches
Practices like meditation, acupuncture, and deep breathing can reduce stress鈥攚hich worsens pain鈥攁nd improve overall pain tolerance.
Natural remedies won鈥檛 cure diabetic nerve damage, but when used alongside blood sugar control and medical care, they can significantly ease symptoms. Always consult your doctor before starting any new supplement or therapy to ensure it鈥檚 safe for your condition.