Why you should be taking alpha lipoic acid for nerve pain?
Studies also found that alpha-lipoic acid supplements can help with neuropathy -- nerve damage -- caused by diabetes or cancer treatment. They seem to reduce symptoms like pain, tingling, and prickling in the feet and legs. It may also help protect the retina from some of the damage that can occur in people with diabetes.
Why should a man use alpha lipoic acid?
- if you have a thiamine deficiency (vitamin B1), which is associated with liver disease /alcohol abuse
- if you’re taking any medications for diabetes for insulin control, since this can raise the risk for hypoglycemia and low blood sugar
- if you’re recovering from chemotherapy treatment or taking cancer medications
What is the function of alpha lipoic acid?
What Are The Health Benefits of Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
- Improves Memory Loss. Alpha-Lipoic acid reverses memory loss by increasing acetylcholine levels in the hippocampus, improving cognitive function, learning, and memory.
- Relieves Nerve Pain. ...
- Protects Against Inflammation. ...
- Helps To Manage Diabetes. ...
- Promotes Weight Loss. ...
- Fights Signs of Skin Aging. ...
Should a healthy adult take alpha lipoic acid?
In adults, supplementation with alpha lipoic acid seems to positively impact patients with immune deficiency syndromes and serious viruses by restoring blood total glutathione levels and improving functional reactivity of lymphocytes to T-cell mitogens. 5. Might Help Protect Skin from Damage
See more
Can alpha-lipoic acid reverse nerve damage?
Alpha-lipoic acid seems to delay or reverse peripheral diabetic neuropathy through its multiple antioxidant properties. Treatment with alpha-lipoic acid increases reduced glutathione, an important endogenous antioxidant. In clinical trials, 600 mg alpha-lipoic acid has been shown to improve neuropathic deficits.
Can alpha-lipoic acid regenerate nerves?
Alpha-lipoic acid (a-lipoic acid or ALA) is a powerful antioxidant cofactor synthesized in mitochondria that could help stimulate nerves and regenerate nerve fibers, thus preventing disease progression.
How long does it take for alpha-lipoic acid to work for neuropathy?
A review of studies from the Netherlands showed that a daily 600 milligrams intravenous dose of ALA given over three weeks reduced neuropathic pain. 6 Another review found that daily intravenous doses of 300 milligrams to 600 milligrams for two to four weeks were safe and improved neuropathy symptoms.
Can alpha-lipoic acid cured my neuropathy?
Several studies suggest alpha-lipoic acid helps lower blood sugar levels. Its ability to kill free radicals may help people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, who have pain, burning, itching, tingling, and numbness in arms and legs from nerve damage.
What supplements help repair nerve damage?
6 Dietary Supplements That Can Improve NeuropathyAcetyl-L-Carnitine. Acetyl-L-carnitine is an amino acid and antioxidant that creates healthy nerve cells, reduces nerve pain, and raises energy levels. ... Alpha-Lipoic Acid. ... B Vitamins. ... Curcumin. ... Fish Oil. ... N-Acetyl Cysteine.
What is the best vitamin for nerve damage?
B vitamins for neuropathy. B vitamins are useful in treating neuropathy since they support healthy nervous system function. Peripheral neuropathy is sometimes caused by a vitamin B deficiency. Supplementation should include vitamin B1 (thiamine and benfotiamine), B6, and B12.
How do I know if nerve damage is healing?
How do I know the nerve is recovering? As your nerve recovers, the area the nerve supplies may feel quite unpleasant and tingly. This may be accompanied by an electric shock sensation at the level of the growing nerve fibres; the location of this sensation should move as the nerve heals and grows.
What vitamins should not be taken with alpha-lipoic acid?
Avoid using alpha-lipoic acid together with other herbal/health supplements that can also lower your blood sugar. This includes devil's claw, fenugreek, garlic, guar gum, horse chestnut, Panax ginseng, psyllium, and Siberian ginseng.
Can you just stop taking alpha-lipoic acid?
In light of the above, and even if you are not taking other medications, it may be best to taper off alpha-lipoic acid, such as cutting to a half-dose for a week before stopping completely — although we are not aware of studies looking at this or other procedures for discontinuing alpha-lipoic acid treatment.
How long can I take alpha-lipoic acid?
When taken by mouth: Alpha-lipoic acid is possibly safe for most adults when taken for up to 4 years. It is usually well-tolerated.
Can I take alpha-lipoic acid every day?
Alpha-lipoic acid is generally considered safe with little to no side effects. In some cases, people may experience mild symptoms like nausea, rashes, or itching. However, research shows that adults can take up to 2,400 mg without harmful side effects (38).
How do you regenerate nerves naturally?
Green and leafy vegetables. Broccoli, spinach and asparagus all contain vitamin B, a nutrient important for nerve regeneration and nerve function. Spinach, broccoli and kale also contain a micronutrient called alpha-lipoic acid that prevents nerve damage and improves nerve function.
Can you take too much alpha-lipoic acid?
Introduction: Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a potent antioxidant used to treat a variety of disorders. Although ALA is considered a very safe supplement and intoxication is very rare, acute high-dose ingestions can cause mortality.
How much alpha-lipoic acid should you take daily?
Alpha-lipoic supplements are best taken on an empty stomach, as certain foods can lower the acid's bioavailability (40). Though there is no set dosage, most evidence suggests that 300–600 mg is sufficient and safe.
Is alpha-lipoic acid good for blood pressure?
Moreover, a statistically significant reduction in BP was detected in elevated BP and hypertensive patients as compared with the normotensive subjects. Conclusion: ALA supplementation could be considered as a BP-lowering agent, especially in subjects with higher blood pressure.
What does acetyl L carnitine alpha-lipoic acid do?
α‐Lipoic acid and acetyl‐L‐carnitine reduce oxidative stress and improve mitochondrial function.
What is the compound that is used to treat neuropathic pain?
The natural compound alpha-lipoic acid has antioxidant properties. It has also been used successfully to treat neuropathic pain.
Can vitamin E help with neuropathy?
A review of medical research found that nutraceuticals including vitamin B complex, alpha-lipoic acid, L-acetylcarnitine, vitamin E and Coenzyme Q may alleviate the pain of neuropathy ( Current Drug Metabolism, 2018 ). The supplements should be taken half an hour before meals to ensure good absorption. Rate this article.
Where did Terry teach?
Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies. Read Terry 's Full Bio.
Who is Terry Graedon?
Terry Graedon, PhD, is a medical anthropologist and co-host of The People’s Pharmacy radio show, co-author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper columns and numerous books, and co-founder of The People’s Pharmacy website. Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies. Read Terry 's Full Bio.
What is the most popular supplement for nerve renewal?
One that is proving to be particularly popular is Stabalized Alpha Lipoic Acid in the supplement Nerve Renew. While not yet common in this country, it has been used in various European countries for many years, particularly in Germany.
What is 100% stabilized R-ALA?
100% stabilized R-ALA (R-Alpha Lipoic Acid) is believed to provide significant relief from the pain caused by peripheral neuropathy. It is a very strong antioxidant that is water soluble and very fast acting. What researchers know about it is that it helps to improve the way cell 'transporters' operate in the body.
What is peripheral neuropathy?
People who suffer from peripheral neuropathy, which is a form of nerve damage to their extremities (hands and feet), often look for alternative treatment options to relieve their symptoms. This is because conventional medication often comes with significant side effects.
Is alpha lipoic acid intravenously available?
In Germany, alpha lipoic acid has already been used for many years in patients who have been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy. In most cases, however, the substance is provided intravenously. Very few studies have been performed into the efficiency of ALA if taken orally in Nerve Renew.
Is alpha lipoic acid good for neuropathy?
Significant pieces of research have taken place into the role of alpha lipoic acid. It has been found to be beneficial in the treatment of neuropathy, and may even prevent it. Studies have also shown that the antioxidant helps to lower levels of blood sugar.
Does ALA help with neuropathy?
Additionally, there is a suggestion that ALA helps to treat autonomic neuropathy, which is also very common in diabet ics. This condition means that the internal organs' nerves become affected.
Is vitamin B deficiency a cause of neuropathy?
A vitamin B deficiency is a very common cause of peripheral neuropathy. There have now been quite a significant amount of studies that have shown that alpha lipoic acid works, and that R-ALA is particularly potent.
Why do people take ALA?
People have been taking ALA supplements for quite some time in this country, mainly because they have been made aware of their benefits from Europeans, where the supplement has long been used as a treatment of neuropathic pain.
What are the brands of vitamin supplements?
They include, Bronson Laboratories, Country Life, Jarrow Formulas, NOW, Solgar, Vitacost and Nerve Renew.
What was used to determine regeneration distance and area?
Quantitative immunohistochemistry was used to determine regeneration distance and area. It showed that providing people with ALCAR treatment resulted in a statistically relevant increase of immunostaining for Schwann cells, which saw a 111% increase in total area and 229% increase in percentage area; and in nerve fibers, which saw a 264% increase in total area and 229% increase in percentage area as compared to those who received no treatment at all.
Why do they disintegrate and dissolve ingredients?
They also disintegrate and dissolve all the ingredients so that they are more bioavailable and easy to absorb by the body.
How many neurons have died from trauma?
This study took an enhanced look at morbidity caused by trauma to the peripheral nerve. This morbidity is believed to be caused by the fact that around 40% of the innervating sensory neurons have died and, once repaired, their regeneration is very slow.
What are the side effects of a sulfate based sulfate based s?
While this compound seems to have tremendous benefits, it is important to understand that it has also some side effects in higher dosages, which include: 1 Anxiety 2 Headaches 3 Low blood sugar 4 Weakness 5 Hunger 6 Confusion 7 Sweating 8 Dizziness 9 Irritability 10 Feeling jittery 11 Increased heart rate 12 Feeling light-headed 13 Skin rashes 14 Nausea
Does alpha lipoic acid help with sciatic nerve injury?
Possible role of alpha-lipoic acid in the treatment of peripheral nerve injuries [6] This study used laboratory rats that had a crush injury on their sciatic nerve. Scientists found that if they pre-treated the area with alpha-lipoic acid, its antioxidant effects were clearly noticeable.
What is alpha-lipoic acid?
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant also known as Acetate Replacing Factor, ALA, Biletan, Lipoicin, Thioctan, and many other names.
What should I avoid while taking alpha-lipoic acid?
Avoid using alpha-lipoic acid together with other herbal/health supplements that can also lower your blood sugar. This includes devil's claw, fenugreek, garlic, guar gum, horse chestnut, Panax ginseng, psyllium, and Siberian ginseng.
Can you use alpha lipoic acid in place of medication?
Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Alpha-lipoic acid should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor. Alpha-lipoic acid is often sold as an herbal supplement.
Can you use alpha lipoic acid in herbal supplements?
You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements. If you choose to use alpha-lipoic acid, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.
Can alpha lipoic acid cause low blood sugar?
if you drink large amounts of alcohol. It is not known whether alpha-lipoic acid will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant.
Is alpha lipoic acid good for diabetics?
Alpha-lipoic acid has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in weight loss, treating diabetic nerve pain , healing wounds, lowering blood sugar, improving skin discoloration caused by vitiligo, and decreasing complications of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Alpha-lipoic acid may have been combined with other plants or extracts in a specific preparation to treat these conditions.
Can you take alpha lipoic acid without medical advice?
Do not take alpha-lipoic acid without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:
What does nerve damage feel like?
For some, it is a constant prickling or burning sensation all throughout the day. For others, it is numbness and loss of balance.
What vitamins help with nerve pain?
Vitamin B6 and B12. B vitamins, such as B6 (pyridoxine) and B12 , improve nerve function, expedite nerve tissue regeneration, and relieve pain and inflammation. Some findings have also shown that B6 lowers the ratio of a key amino acid in the blood while B12 on the other hand, is a critical aid to serotonin levels.
What foods have B6?
Some foods rich in B6 are pork, fish, bread, eggs and soya beans while foods rich in B12 are clams, sardines, beef, and tuna. 3. Acetyl-L-carnitine. Acetyl-L-carnitine is an antioxidant and amino acid responsible for raising energy levels, creating healthy nerve cells and reducing pain in people with nerve damage.
What foods contain acetyl-L-carnitine?
Foods rich in Acetyl-L-carnitine are meat, fish, poultry and dairy products. 4. N- Acetylcysteine (NAC) N- Acetylcysteine, a form of cysteine, protects nerve health from neurotoxicity and oxidative stress.
What foods contain cysteine?
Some of the food sources of cysteine are red peppers, garlic, onions, sprouted lentils, and oats. 5. Omega- 3 Fatty Acids.
What foods contain alpha lipoic acid?
Some of the foods that contain ALA are spinach, broccoli, tomato, and green peas. 2. Vitamin B6 and B12.
Can you cure nerve damage?
According to Dr. Isha Gupta, a neurologist from New York, nerve damage usually develops gradually, which means it is possible to cure it before it worsens. Over-the-counter or OTC painkillers are on top of the list of most doctors.
Uses
Research
- Numerous studies have shown that there is a clear link between taking ALA as a supplement and reduced levels of nerve pain. Those studies include: In this study, evidence was collected that demonstrated that intravenous injections of 600mg of alpha-lipoic acid ever day for a three week period, lead to a clinically relevant, statistically significan...
Benefits
- Various studies have also shown that there are tremendous benefits offered by ALA in terms of how it supports the regeneration of the nerve system, while fighting new nerve damage at the same time. Nerve Renew offers a number of other benefits as well, one of which is that it lowers stress and anxiety, improves balance and coordination, and supports and strengthens the lining…
History
- People have been taking ALA supplements for quite some time in this country, mainly because they have been made aware of their benefits from Europeans, where the supplement has long been used as a treatment of neuropathic pain.
Society and culture
- People regularly confirm that they have noticed a significant reduction in their pain and tingling sensations, while also increasing their overall levels of well-being. This may be in part due to the fact that living with significant pain has a tremendous impact in peoples overall quality of life.
Reviews
- On WebMD, one reviewer says: On Drugs.com, one reviewer says: On Everyday Health, one reviewer says: One iHerb.com, one reviewer says:
Side effects
- Adverse Side Effects While this compound seems to have tremendous benefits, it is important to understand that it has also some side effects in higher dosages, which include:
Treatment
- If you experience any of these symptoms after taking it, you should stop taking the supplement and seek medical attention. Do bring the bottle with you, so that a physician can investigate what is causing your symptoms.
Results
- What they found was that 600mg of alpha-lipoic acid per day for a three week period led to a significant improvement in the symptoms associated with diabetic neuropathy. It also found that those who had this treatment did not suffer from side effects.
Availability
- In Germany, it is possible to purchase oral formulations. These products are not currently available in the US. Indeed, here, R-ALA is only approved as an OTC (over the counter) dietary supplement.
Risks
- What this means is that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesnt yet know how safe or efficient it is for any other treatment. It is very important, as well, that you speak to a physician about whether or not you can take not just it as a dietary supplement, but any other kind of supplement as well.
Products
- Because there have been so much research on this compound and because it is readily available in European countries, there are now numerous brands of supplements available on the market. They include, Bronson Laboratories, Country Life, Jarrow Formulas, NOW, Solgar, Vitacost and Nerve Renew.
Clinical significance
- The supplement Nerve Renew has a form of R-ALA that has been widely accepted as the best and for good reason. This is a nutritional supplement that has been developed specifically to reduce the symptoms of neuropathy. Click here to read more about it.
Symptoms
- Some people who have used it claim they have been cured completely of the condition, but this is rare given the complexity of the condition. The symptoms that it is able to address include burning sensations, tingling, pain, and numbness in the legs, hands, and feet.
Safety
- The government and the FDA have set a number of standards for each of the ingredients included and the company meets all of those and exceeds them where possible. They also disintegrate and dissolve all the ingredients so that they are more bioavailable and easy to absorb by the body.
Mechanism
- It is clear that the manufacturers are focused on quality and truly offering a solution to customers. They test each bottle individually and, straight after testing, seal it while also marking it with its own expiration date. This means that those who purchase the supplement are guaranteed to have a fresh, potent product that will last them long enough to have a noticeable impact.