Do you suffer from neuropathy? If so, you may be looking for natural ways to relieve the painful symptoms of this condition alongside your in-office therapies. The good news: several natural supplements for neuropathy may help ease nerve pain, tingling, and numbness.
In this guide, we’ll cover seven supplements that may provide relief from neuropathy-related pain and discomfort. At our office, we often suggest supplementation in conjunction with our functional medicine approach to neuropathy.
Disclaimer It is important to discuss these supplements with your doctor before you begin taking any of them, as some can interfere with medications you may be currently prescribed. These supplements are not meant to replace any therapies recommended by your doctor.
Curcumin is a naturally occurring compound extracted from turmeric. It has been used for centuries in traditional Asian medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including pain, inflammation, and neurological conditions — and it has recently grown popular for its remarkable therapeutic properties. Research suggests curcumin helps reduce inflammation and boost antioxidant levels, which helps protect nerves from damage and reduces neuropathic pain.
NAC is a form of cysteine that is both an amino acid and an antioxidant. These properties help improve nerve damage and prevent nerve cell death (apoptosis). NAC is also known to reduce neuropathic pain and can help improve motor coordination.
NAC is not found in foods, which is why it’s recommended as a supplement — though cysteine itself is often found in high-protein foods.
Acetyl-L-carnitine is another amino acid and antioxidant known to boost energy, support healthy nerve cells, and reduce neuropathic pain. It has been widely studied for successfully helping those with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.
Foods containing Acetyl-L-carnitine
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that may benefit those suffering from neuropathy — specifically diabetic and chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. It can help lower blood sugar levels, boost nerve function, and relieve tingling, numbness, burning, itching, and pain in the extremities.
Foods containing Alpha-lipoic acid
B vitamins support healthy nervous system function and promote nerve repair. In fact, a deficiency in B vitamins can cause peripheral neuropathy. The easiest way to get your B vitamins is by taking a B-Complex supplement — but you can also incorporate them through food.
Foods containing B Vitamins
Fish oil has anti-inflammatory effects and the ability to repair damaged nerves. It can also help relieve muscle stiffness, soreness, and pain. Its beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids can also be found in several foods.
Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids
Magnesium has been studied in people undergoing chemotherapy to reduce the chance of developing neuropathy. Research found that patients with higher magnesium levels were less likely to develop chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.
Foods containing Magnesium
Nutrition and supplementation play a critical role in reducing inflammation, improving nerve function, and providing pain relief to those suffering from neuropathy. It is best to eat a variety of foods rich in necessary nutrients and vitamins — but supplementation may be necessary depending on your specific needs.
Including these supplements in your daily routine can improve nerve health and reduce the pain associated with neuropathy. Just be sure to discuss them with your doctor before you begin.
Visit Texas Nerve and Spine to learn more about how we can help you manage your neuropathy naturally. Our team is dedicated to helping you find a solution that reduces pain and improves nerve health — so you can get back to enjoying life.
Discover more articles on nerve, spine, and chronic pain care from the specialists at Texas Nerve and Spine.