Top 15 Supplements, Minerals & Vitamins for Peripheral Neuropathy
Do you have nerve damage? Chronic nerve pain or peripheral neuropathy? We review the top 15 supplements for peripheral neuropathy!
Table of Contents
What Is Peripheral Neuropathy:
- Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord, particularly those in the hands and feet.
- It can cause a wide range of symptoms, including tingling, numbness, burning, pain, and weakness in the affected areas. The symptoms can be mild or severe, and can impact a person’s ability to perform everyday activities.
- Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by a variety of factors, including diabetes, alcoholism, chemotherapy, autoimmune diseases, infections, and certain medications. In some cases, the cause of the condition is unknown.
Diagnosis:
- The diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy typically involves a physical examination, nerve conduction studies, and blood tests. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of the condition and may include medications to relieve symptoms, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes such as exercise and a healthy diet.
- It is important for people with peripheral neuropathy to work closely with their healthcare provider to manage the condition and prevent complications.
Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment:
Top 15 Supplements:
These are my top 15 list for peripheral neuropathy.
15) Resveratrol:
Resveratrol is a compound found in grapes and other plants that has been shown to improve nerve function and reduce pain in people with peripheral neuropathy.
- Resveratrol is a natural compound found in several plants, including grapes, berries, and peanuts. It is a type of polyphenol, which is a class of antioxidants that are known for their potential health benefits.
- Resveratrol is most associated with red wine, as it is found in the skins of red grapes and is released during the fermentation process. However, it is also available in supplement form and can be found in some foods and beverages.
- Studies have suggested that resveratrol may have a range of potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving blood sugar control, and protecting against certain types of cancer. It has also been studied for its potential effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy, with some research indicating that it may help improve nerve function and reduce pain in people with this condition. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of resveratrol and how it works in the body.
Best Resveratrol Supplements:
14) L-carnosine:
L-carnosine is an amino acid that has been shown to improve nerve function and reduce pain in people with diabetic neuropathy.
- L-carnosine is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects, as well as potential benefits for brain function, skin health, and age-related diseases.
- One area where L-carnosine has been studied is in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy, which is a type of peripheral neuropathy that can occur in people with diabetes. Studies have suggested that L-carnosine supplementation may help to reduce pain and improve nerve function in people with diabetic neuropathy, although more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action.
- In addition to its potential effects on peripheral neuropathy, L-carnosine has also been studied for its potential effects on a range of other health conditions, including autism, Alzheimer’s disease, and cataracts. However, more research is needed to determine the efficacy and safety of L-carnosine supplementation for these and other health conditions.
- L-carnosine is available in supplement form and is generally considered safe when taken as directed. However, as with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting L-carnosine supplementation, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
Best L-Carnosine Supplements:
13) Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA):
GLA is an omega-6 fatty acid that has been shown to improve nerve function and reduce pain in people with diabetic neuropathy.
- Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid that is found in certain plant-based oils, including evening primrose oil, borage oil, and blackcurrant seed oil. GLA is converted in the body into a hormone-like substance called prostaglandin E1, which has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to regulate many bodily functions.
- GLA has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that GLA supplementation may help to improve nerve function, reduce pain, and improve other symptoms in people with diabetic neuropathy or other forms of peripheral neuropathy. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of GLA in these conditions.
- GLA has also been studied for its potential effects on other health conditions, including eczema, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Some studies have suggested that GLA supplementation may help to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in these conditions, although more research is needed to determine the efficacy and safety of GLA supplementation for these and other health conditions.
- GLA is available in supplement form, typically as evening primrose oil, borage oil, or blackcurrant seed oil supplements. It is generally considered safe when taken as directed, although some people may experience mild side effects such as stomach upset or headaches. As with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting GLA supplementation, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
Best Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) Supplements:
12) Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10):
CoQ10 is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and has been shown to improve nerve function in people with peripheral neuropathy.
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a naturally occurring antioxidant that is found in almost every cell in the human body. It plays an important role in the production of energy within cells, particularly in the mitochondria, which are the energy-producing organelles within cells.
- In addition to its role in energy production, CoQ10 is also known for its potential health benefits, including its effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that CoQ10 supplementation may help to improve nerve function, reduce pain, and improve other symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy. It is believed that CoQ10 may help to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- CoQ10 has also been studied for its potential effects on other health conditions, including heart disease, migraine headaches, and Parkinson’s disease. Some studies have suggested that CoQ10 supplementation may help to improve symptoms and reduce the risk of these and other health conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of CoQ10.
- CoQ10 is available in supplement form and is also found in small amounts in some foods, such as fatty fish, organ meats, and whole grains. It is generally considered safe when taken as directed, although some people may experience mild side effects such as stomach upset or headaches. As with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting CoQ10 supplementation, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
Best Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) Supplements:
11) Vitamin E:
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to improve nerve function and reduce pain in people with peripheral neuropathy.
- Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant in the body. It is found naturally in a variety of foods, including nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and leafy green vegetables.
- In addition to its role as an antioxidant, vitamin E has been studied for its potential effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that vitamin E supplementation may help to improve nerve function, reduce pain, and improve other symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy. It is believed that vitamin E may help to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- Vitamin E has also been studied for its potential effects on other health conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. Some studies have suggested that vitamin E supplementation may help to reduce the risk of these and other health conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of vitamin E.
- Vitamin E is available in supplement form, and is also found in some foods. It is generally considered safe when taken as directed, although high doses of vitamin E can be toxic and may cause side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, or bleeding. As with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting vitamin E supplementation, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
Best Vitamin E Supplements:
10) Curcumin:
Curcumin is a compound found in turmeric that has anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to improve nerve function and reduce pain in people with peripheral neuropathy.
- Curcumin is a natural compound found in the spice turmeric, which is commonly used in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. It is a type of polyphenol and has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Curcumin has been studied extensively for its potential health benefits, which include its effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that curcumin supplementation may help to improve nerve function, reduce pain, and improve other symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy. It is believed that curcumin may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative damage, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- Curcumin has also been studied for its potential effects on other health conditions, including arthritis, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. Some studies have suggested that curcumin supplementation may help to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in these and other health conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of curcumin.
- Curcumin is available in supplement form, typically as a turmeric or curcumin extract supplement. It is generally considered safe when taken as directed, although high doses of curcumin may cause side effects such as stomach upset or diarrhea. As with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting curcumin supplementation, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
Best Curcumin + Bioperdine Supplements:
9) Omega 3 Fish oil:
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to improve nerve function in people with peripheral neuropathy.
- Omega-3 fish oil is a popular dietary supplement that is derived from the tissues of oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines. It is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are a type of essential fatty acid that the body needs but cannot produce on its own. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for a range of bodily functions, including brain health, heart health, and immune system function.
- Omega-3 fish oil supplements typically contain two types of omega-3 fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids have been studied extensively for their potential health benefits, including their effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy.
- Some studies have suggested that omega-3 fish oil supplementation may help to improve nerve function, reduce pain, and improve other symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy. It is believed that omega-3 fatty acids may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative damage, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- Omega-3 fish oil has also been studied for its potential effects on other health conditions, including heart disease, depression, and rheumatoid arthritis. Some studies have suggested that omega-3 fish oil supplementation may help to reduce the risk of these and other health conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of omega-3 fish oil.
- Omega-3 fish oil supplements are widely available and are generally considered safe when taken as directed. However, high doses of omega-3 fish oil can increase the risk of bleeding, so it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting omega-3 fish oil supplementation, particularly if you are taking blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder.
Best Omega 3 Fatty Acid Oil Supplements:
8) Zinc:
Zinc is important for nerve function and a deficiency can contribute to peripheral neuropathy.
- Zinc is an essential mineral that is required for a wide range of bodily functions, including immune system function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. It is found in a variety of foods, including meat, seafood, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
- Zinc has been studied for its potential effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that zinc supplementation may help to improve nerve function, reduce pain, and improve other symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy. It is believed that zinc may help to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage and inflammation, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- Zinc has also been studied for its potential effects on other health conditions, including the common cold, acne, and age-related macular degeneration. Some studies have suggested that zinc supplementation may help to reduce the risk of these and other health conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of zinc.
- Zinc is available in supplement form, and is also found in some foods. It is generally considered safe when taken as directed, although high doses of zinc can cause side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, or copper deficiency. As with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting zinc supplementation, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
Best Zinc Supplements:
7) Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC):
ALC helps produce energy in the body and has been shown to improve nerve function and reduce pain in people with diabetic neuropathy.
- Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) is a natural compound that is produced in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine. It is involved in the metabolism of fatty acids and the production of energy within cells, particularly in the mitochondria, which are the energy-producing organelles within cells.
- ALCAR has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that ALCAR supplementation may help to improve nerve function, reduce pain, and improve other symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy. It is believed that ALCAR may help to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- ALCAR has also been studied for its potential effects on other health conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and male infertility. Some studies have suggested that ALCAR supplementation may help to improve symptoms and reduce the risk of these and other health conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of ALCAR.
- ALCAR is available in supplement form, and is also found in some foods, particularly meat and dairy products. It is generally considered safe when taken as directed, although some people may experience mild side effects such as stomach upset or headaches. As with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting ALCAR supplementation, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
Best Acetyl-L-carnitine Supplements:
6) Benfotiamine:
Benfotiamine is a form of vitamin B1 that has been shown to improve nerve function and reduce pain in people with diabetic neuropathy.
- Benfotiamine is a synthetic derivative of thiamine, which is a water-soluble vitamin that is also known as vitamin B1. Thiamine is required for the metabolism of carbohydrates and the production of energy within cells.
- Benfotiamine has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that benfotiamine supplementation may help to improve nerve function, reduce pain, and improve other symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy. It is believed that benfotiamine may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative damage, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- Benfotiamine has also been studied for its potential effects on other health conditions, including diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and cataracts. Some studies have suggested that benfotiamine supplementation may help to improve symptoms and reduce the risk of these and other health conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of benfotiamine.
- Benfotiamine is available in supplement form, and is typically taken orally. It is generally considered safe when taken as directed, although some people may experience mild side effects such as stomach upset or allergic reactions. As with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting benfotiamine supplementation, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
Best Benfotiamine & Vitamin B1 Supplements:
5) Vitamin B6:
Vitamin B6 is important for nerve function and a deficiency can contribute to peripheral neuropathy.
- Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for many bodily functions, including metabolism, nerve function, and the production of red blood cells. It is found in a variety of foods, including meat, fish, poultry, whole grains, and nuts.
- Vitamin B6 has been studied for its potential effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that vitamin B6 supplementation may help to improve nerve function, reduce pain, and improve other symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy. It is believed that vitamin B6 may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative damage, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- Vitamin B6 has also been studied for its potential effects on other health conditions, including heart disease, depression, and morning sickness during pregnancy. Some studies have suggested that vitamin B6 supplementation may help to reduce the risk of these and other health conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of vitamin B6.
- Vitamin B6 is available in supplement form, and is also found in some foods. It is generally considered safe when taken as directed, although high doses of vitamin B6 can cause side effects such as nerve damage or skin lesions. As with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting vitamin B6 supplementation, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
Best Vitamin B6 Supplements:
4) Vitamin B12:
Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve cell health, and a deficiency can lead to peripheral neuropathy.
- Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for many bodily functions, including the production of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and nerve function. It is found naturally in animal-based foods, including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
- Vitamin B12 has been studied for its potential effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that vitamin B12 supplementation may help to improve nerve function, reduce pain, and improve other symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy. It is believed that vitamin B12 may help to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- Vitamin B12 has also been studied for its potential effects on other health conditions, including anemia, cognitive decline, and depression. Some studies have suggested that vitamin B12 supplementation may help to reduce the risk of these and other health conditions, particularly in people who are deficient in vitamin B12, although more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of vitamin B12.
- Vitamin B12 is available in supplement form, and is also found in some fortified foods, such as breakfast cereals and plant-based milk alternatives. It is generally considered safe when taken as directed, although high doses of vitamin B12 are unlikely to cause harm as it is a water-soluble vitamin and excess amounts are excreted in urine. As with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting vitamin B12 supplementation, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
Best Vitamin B12 Supplements:
3) Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is important for nerve function and immune system health, and a deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of peripheral neuropathy.
- Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for many bodily functions, including bone health, immune system function, and nerve function. It is found naturally in some foods, including fatty fish and fortified dairy products, and can also be synthesized by the body through exposure to sunlight.
- There is some evidence to suggest that vitamin D may play a role in the development and progression of peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that vitamin D deficiency may be associated with an increased risk of peripheral neuropathy, and that vitamin D supplementation may help to improve nerve function and reduce symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy.
- The exact mechanisms by which vitamin D may affect nerve function and peripheral neuropathy are not fully understood, but it is believed that vitamin D may help to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage and inflammation, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation for peripheral neuropathy, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels through a balanced diet and exposure to sunlight is generally considered important for overall health. Vitamin D supplementation may be recommended for people with vitamin D deficiency or those at risk of deficiency, but it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.
Best Vitamin D3 & Vitamin K2 Supplements:
2.5) Vitamin C:
- Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in numerous bodily functions, such as collagen synthesis, wound healing, and immune system regulation. While vitamin C deficiency is linked to various health problems, it is not specifically known to cause peripheral neuropathy. However, some studies have explored the potential benefits of vitamin C for managing peripheral neuropathy.
- Peripheral neuropathy refers to a group of conditions affecting the peripheral nervous system, which comprises nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. Common symptoms include pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected areas, usually the hands and feet. Many factors can lead to peripheral neuropathy, including diabetes, autoimmune diseases, infections, and nutritional deficiencies.
- There is limited research on the direct effects of vitamin C on peripheral neuropathy. However, some studies suggest that antioxidants, such as vitamin C, could help protect nerves from damage caused by oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is thought to play a role in the development and progression of peripheral neuropathy, particularly in diabetic neuropathy.
- One study published in 2017 by Chugh et al. in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that vitamin C supplementation, in combination with other antioxidants, improved nerve function and reduced neuropathic pain in patients with type 2 diabetes. Another study published in 2011 by Koc et al. in the Journal of Nutritional Neuroscience indicated that vitamin C, along with vitamin E, could help prevent neuropathy induced by the chemotherapy drug cisplatin in rats.
- While these studies suggest that vitamin C may have some benefits in managing peripheral neuropathy, it’s important to note that the evidence is limited and more research is needed to establish a direct link between vitamin C and improved outcomes for peripheral neuropathy patients.
- It’s also crucial to remember that peripheral neuropathy can result from various causes, and addressing the underlying cause is typically the most effective treatment strategy. If you suspect you may have peripheral neuropathy, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Best Vitamin C Supplements:
2) Magnesium:
Magnesium plays a role in nerve function and muscle relaxation, and a deficiency can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- Magnesium is an essential mineral that is involved in many bodily functions, including nerve function, muscle function, and bone health. It is found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
- There is some evidence to suggest that magnesium may play a role in the development and progression of peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that magnesium deficiency may be associated with an increased risk of peripheral neuropathy, and that magnesium supplementation may help to improve nerve function and reduce symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy.
- The exact mechanisms by which magnesium may affect nerve function and peripheral neuropathy are not fully understood, but it is believed that magnesium may help to regulate nerve function and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of magnesium supplementation for peripheral neuropathy, maintaining adequate magnesium levels through a balanced diet is generally considered important for overall health. Magnesium supplementation may be recommended for people with magnesium deficiency or those at risk of deficiency, but it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.
Best Magnesium Supplements:
Best Magnesium Powders:
Best Magnesium Pills:
Best Magnesium Topicals:
1) Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA):
ALA is a potent antioxidant that has been shown to help reduce pain and improve nerve function in people with diabetic neuropathy.
- Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a natural compound that is found in some foods, including red meat and organ meats. It is also available in supplement form and is known for its antioxidant properties.
- ALA has been studied for its potential effects on nerve function and peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that ALA supplementation may help to improve nerve function, reduce pain, and improve other symptoms in people with peripheral neuropathy. It is believed that ALA may help to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage, which can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- ALA has also been studied for its potential effects on other health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and liver disease. Some studies have suggested that ALA supplementation may help to improve symptoms and reduce the risk of these and other health conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of ALA.
- ALA is available in supplement form and is generally considered safe when taken as directed, although some people may experience mild side effects such as stomach upset or allergic reactions. As with any supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting ALA supplementation, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
It’s important to note that while these vitamins, minerals, and supplements have shown potential benefits for peripheral neuropathy, they should always be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Additionally, supplements should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or to self-diagnose a condition.
Best Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplements:
More Links for Treatment:
Here are a few links to additional resources on peripheral neuropathy and its treatment:
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Peripheral-Neuropathy-Information-Page
- American Academy of Neurology: https://www.aan.com/policy-and-guidelines/guidelines/find-guidelines/peripheral-neuropathy/
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352061