Neuropathy
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Acetyl-L-Carnitine | 500 to 1,000 mg three times daily |  [3 stars] Taking acetyl-L-carnitine can reduce pain in people with diabetic neuropathy, but does not appear to consistently benefit cases of chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. |
Magnesium | 200 to 600 mg daily | [3 stars] Supplementing with magnesium may reverse poor magnesium status and improve diabetic peripheral neuropathy, but does not appear to be helpful for preventing or treating chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. |
Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, and Folic Acid | 2,000 mcg methylcobalamin (B12); 3,000 mcg methylfolate (B9); and 35 mg pyridoxal 5-phosphate once to twice daily | [3 stars] B vitamins, and vitamin B12 in particular, may be helpful in treating various types of neuropathies. People with type 2 diabetes taking metformin should be monitored for B12 deficiency. |
Vitamin D | 7,100 IU daily or 50,000 IU weekly of vitamin D3 for eight to twelve weeks, followed by 2,000 to 4,000 IU daily long term | [3 stars] Supplementing with vitamin D3 daily or weekly can help reduce symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. |
Alpha-Lipoic Acid | 600 to 1,200 mg daily |  [2 stars] Alpha-lipoic acid may reduce symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy and may work best in combination with medical treatment for neuropathy. Its possible benefit in chemotherapy-induced neuropathy needs further investigation. |
Coenzyme Q10 | 400 mg daily | [2 stars] There is little evidence that coenzyme Q10 improves nerve function and eases symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. |
Vitamin E | 300 to 600 mg (450 to 900 IU) daily | [2 stars] Vitamin E supplementation may protect against diabetes- and chemotherapy-related neuropathy. |
Biotin | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] There is anecdotal evidence that high-dose biotin may reduce pain from diabetic nerve damage. |
N-Acetyl Cysteine | 1,200 mg daily | [1 star] A small body of evidence suggests N-acetyl cysteine may help prevent neuropathy. |
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1,200 to 1,800 mg daily of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil | [1 star] Preliminary evidence suggests omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil may help to prevent diabetes- and chemotherapy-related neuropathy. |
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.