Neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction to one or more nerves. It typically causes symptoms like tingling, burning, muscle weakness and pain. Neuropathies normally start in the hands or feet, but other parts of your body can be affected as well. While neuropathy is most common in individuals with diabetes, it can also be caused by trauma, autoimmune disorders and other medical conditions.
Treatment for neuropathy is aimed at identifying and treating the underlying medical problem, such as diabetes or an infection. Sometimes, neuropathy can be treated and cured, but other times it cannot. In cases where neuropathy cannot be cured, the goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and prevent further nerve damage.
While there are many medications used to treat nerve pain, one of the best might be in your medicine cabinet already – B vitamins.
B Vitamins for Treating Neuropathy
B vitamins are useful for treating neuropathy since they support healthy nerve function. As a matter of fact, sometimes the cause of neuropathic pain is caused by a Vitamin B deficiency. Let’s look closer at the B vitamins that play the biggest role in supporting nerve health, and the best ways to get these vitamins.
Vitamin B1
Also known as thiamine, Vitamin B1 is a water soluble vitamin found naturally in some foods, added to foods or available in a supplement. B1 is essential for nerve health.
Nerves use a lot of energy, but they’re unable to store it. Therefore, they need a constant supply of energy, which is why B1 is so important. Vitamin B1 converts carbohydrates into the energy your nerve cells need to function properly and stay healthy.
The best way to get Vitamin B1 is by eating fortified foods like pork, fish, beans, lentils and yogurt. Your doctor may also recommend a supplement.
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 is also known as riboflavin, and it’s considered a vital part of mitochondrial energy. Vitamin B2 is known for maintaining proper brain, nerve, digestive and hormone function. It may even reduce symptoms of stress and boost the immune system.
You can find Vitamin B2 in eggs, organ meats, fortified foods and some vegetables. You can also take a supplement to increase the amount of B2 in the body.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, makes it possible for your nerve fibers to transmit nerve signals effectively. It helps the body make several neurotransmitters that are required for normal brain development and function.
Vitamin B6 is found in a variety of animal and plant foods such as tuna, salmon, poultry, chickpeas and fortified cereals. Dark leafy greens, bananas, papayas and oranges are also good sources of B6. Supplements are also available.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is another vitamin that’s crucial for nerve health. It’s responsible for regenerating nerve fibers and repairing nerve damage. Perhaps its most important job is to make myelin, an insulating layer that forms around the nerve fibers and protects them from damage.
You can get Vitamin B12 through foods like beef, liver, chicken, fish, shellfish, low-fat dairy products and eggs. B12 supplements will also raise B12 levels.
Neuropathy Support Formula – The Best Way to Get B Vitamins
Instead of taking a bunch of vitamins, most people who suffer from neuropathy say it’s best to eat a balanced diet and take a B complex vitamin that includes multiple B vitamins. Neuro Health offers a proprietary formula for nerve pain. It includes B vitamins, along with Vitamin D3, Vitamin C, folate and others. To learn more about our product or to place an order, contact our customer service team today.