Find Relief from Nerve Damage

Neuropathy is damage to the peripheral nervous system, which carries information to and from the brain and spinal cord. The damage is distinguished by inability to control muscles, pain, and loss of sensation (most frequently occurring in the feet and legs). Neuropathy is a common occurrence among 50% of individuals who have had diabetes for more than 25 years. This condition is caused by imbalanced blood sugar levels and can damage many parts of the body such as the heart, eyes, kidneys and blood vessels that bring oxygen to the nerves. The damaged nerves may send messages too slow or at wrong times.

The nerves leading to the feet are the longest in our body and the ones most affected by neuropathy. Doctors estimate more than 50% of foot amputations caused by neuropathy and poor circulation could be avoided with proper care.

Other complications caused by neuropathy include:

The good news is that you don't have to succumb to complications associated with imbalanced blood sugar levels. There are many things you can do to prevent such problems. Start by altering your diet. A diet rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber, such as whole grains, legumes, and vegetables, reduces the need for insulin by slowing and controlling the release of glucose into the bloodstream. Avoid simple carbohydrates such as fruit juices, highly processed foods and foods containing refined sugar. These foods raise blood sugar levels rapidly thereby spiking the insulin levels in the body.

There are certain nutrients required by the body for glucose metabolism specifically chromium, Zinc, B-complex vitamins and vitamin C. According to Evan Shute, M.D., co-founder of Canada's Shute Foundation for Medical Research, vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that has a significant anti-clotting effect, which is an important part of preventing vascular complications such as damage to the eyes and kidneys, common among diabetics.

Omega-3 fatty acid has been shown to decrease insulin resistance and vascular complications in diabetics. Linoleic acid, which is a form of omega-6 fatty acid has shown to reduce neuropathy, as long a proper balance between omega-3 and omega-6 is taken.

Studies have indicated magnesium and potassium deficiencies cause glucose intolerance, which contributes to nerve and organ damage. Magnesium reduces the amount of lipid or fat found in the blood and also acts as a vasodilator to prevent retinopathy and atherosclerosis. Herbal medicines such as fenugreek, garlic, and ginseng have proven to have hypoglycemic properties that offer help with managing non-insulin dependent diabetes, according to David L. Hoffman, B.Sc. former President of the American Herbalists Guild.