B vitamins play an important role in supporting nerve health - a common concern among people who have diabetes. This week, I want to tell you about two additional supplements that have been demonstrated to have the same effect.
Lipoic acid. Called alpha lipoic acid or ALA, it is a vitamin-like antioxidant, referred to as the "universal antioxidant" because it is both fat- and water-soluble. This allows it to enter all parts of the cell to neutralize free radicals. Research has shown that when taken in high doses, lipoic acid helps to support peripheral nerve health. Depending on the amount of support you need, I recommend between 200-400 mg per day.
Evening primrose oil. Also called EPO, this is the second supplement I recommend for nerve health. Evening primrose is a wildflower native to North America. EPO, which contains the essential fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA), has been shown to help support optimal nerve function. In one double-blind study carried out in seven medical centers, 480 mg of evening primrose oil taken daily for one year proved beneficial to patients’ nerve health. Other studies have used doses of up to 6,000 mg per day with good results. I suggest supplementing with evening primrose oil at a starting dose of 500-1,500 mg per day.
Both of these supplements can be purchased in health food stores. If you're suffering from neuropathy (a painful and common complication of diabetes), give them a try - and take control of your diabetes.
Yours in good health,
Dr. Whitaker
Want to learn more about diabetes control? Visit DrWhitaker.com.
Nerves are very important to our body. It's important to take good care of them by taking
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