Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Diet for neuropathy: vitamin B12, blood sugar control and what to limit.
Food cannot repair nerve damage by itself, but good nutrition helps treat common causes of neuropathy and protects the nerves.
Vitamin B12
B12 is vital for nerves. Dairy, eggs, fish and meat contain it. Vegetarians and vegans, older adults, and people on metformin or long-term acid-reducing medicines may be low. A blood test shows whether you need supplements or injections.
Other nutrients
Blood sugar control
If you have diabetes, choose whole grains, vegetables and pulses, eat at regular times and limit sugar and refined flour. Steady sugar slows nerve damage.
Limit
Healthy weight and water
Keep a healthy weight and drink enough water unless restricted.
Special cases
Remember
Check B12 and blood sugar instead of guessing, and avoid mega-dose vitamin supplements.
When to get help
See a doctor if you have numbness, tingling, burning pain or weakness that lasts more than a few days, especially with diabetes. Avoid long self-medication and unknown herbal products, and do not use oils, herbs or home remedies on infants or young children without a paediatrician's advice. In an emergency call 112 or 102.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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