Vitamin B12 and ALA: Nutrition for Nerve Health

Numbness? Tingling and pin prick sensations? Pains and cramps? Are you struggling with these discomforts or you know of someone enduring them? All these symptoms which occur at legs and arms are commonly grouped as the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy refers to the conditions that result when nerves that carry messages to and from the brain and spinal cord from and to the rest of the body are damaged or diseased. Symptoms may be experienced over a period of days, weeks or years. Diabetic neuropathy is one of the most common forms of peripheral neuropathy. Pain and numbness are often felt symmetrically in both feet followed by a gradual progression up both legs. After some times, the fingers, hands and arms may be affected as well.

What is Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 is critical for the function of nervous system, and a lack of it can cause significant peripheral neuropathy. There are two forms of Vitamin B12, which are methycobalamin and cyanocobalamin. Methylcobalamin is the most potent form and the only active form of Vitamin B12. We need methylcobalamin for healthy development and sustenance of our circulatory, immune and nervous systems.

On the other hand, cyanocobalamin is a by-product of Vitamin B12 charcoal extraction. The liver must convert cyanocobalamin to methylcobalamin in order for Vitamin B12 to do its biochemical work in the brain. Thus, methylcobalamin is the biologically active form of Vitamin B12 that can be readily absorbed into the bloodstream. The food sources of Vitamin B12 are organ meat like liver, fish and meat.

Benefits of Vitamin B12

• Promotes healthy nerves
• Reduces nerve pain & neuropathy symptoms caused by diabetes
• Improve numbness, reflexes, sensitivity to vibration, pin-prick stimulation and pain

What is Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)?

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is widely known as a strong antioxidant that protect against damage to the body’s cells. ALA is used for diabetes and nerve-related symptoms of diabetes including burning, pain and numbness in the legs and arms. High doses of ALA are approved in Germany for the treatment of these symptoms. There are food sources of ALA such as organ meat (heart, kidneys and liver) and vegetables such as broccoli and spinach.

Benefits of ALA

• Reduces symptoms of nerve damage that caused by diabetes such as pain, numbness and etc.
• Acts as a strong antioxidant to help prevent cell and nerve damage in the body and restores vitamin levels such as Vitamin E and Vitamin C.

The combination of Vitamin B12 in methylcobalamin form with ALA is indeed a unique formulation and effective way to reduce the symptoms of nerve damage and promote nerve health. This combination is now being marketed by Vitamode Sdn Bhd and is available in selected pharmacies nationwide. It is recommended for elderly or diabetes patient who are suffering from nerve pain or numbness. Last but not least, an alternative way to keep your nerve healthy is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Walk with ease and enjoy every step forward, start from today!