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Lipoic Acid Battles Diabetes Side Effect

Posted On : Sep-06-2011 | seen (440) times | Article Word Count : 519 |

In the second part of my look at lipoic acid, we'll check out the evidence about its abilities to help treat diabetic neuropathy. This just might be one of the best natural supplements for this condition.
In the second part of my look at lipoic acid, we'll check out
the evidence about its abilities to help treat diabetic
neuropathy. This just might be one of the best natural
supplements for this condition.

About one in five patients with diabetes suffers from
diabetic neuropathy -- so it is very common. It's the result
of nerve damage by compromised small blood vessels
surrounding the nerve. It occurs most frequently in diabetic
patients with prolonged high blood sugar levels.

Patients with diabetic neuropathy may experience these
symptoms: stabbing pains; burning sensation, especially in
the evening; muscle twitching; impaired speech; difficulty
swallowing; muscle weakness; dizziness; blurred vision;
drooping eyelid; impotence or erectile dysfunction; chronic
diarrhea; reduced sensation anywhere in the body; and,
most commonly, numbness and tingling sensation in the
extremities.

In general, diabetic neuropathy is divided into three
categories: sensorimotor; autonomic; and cranial.
Sensorimotor neuropathy involves primarily the long
nerves, especially in the foot and lower legs, with
numbness or a tingling sensation. Autonomic nerves
control the functions of the heart, gastrointestinal tract, and
urinary system. When affected by diabetes, heart rate,
breathing patterns, and gastrointestinal and urinary
functions may change.

Here is some evidence as to how lipoic acid could help
treat diabetic neuropathy:

1995: A study with 328 patients used 100, 600, or 1,200
milligrams (mg) of lipoic acid. The first dose lowered
symptoms by 38%, the second by 64% and the third by
60%. Note: lipoic acid was administered by IV.

1997: A study tested 800 mg of lipoic acid over four
months. It found that the treatment improved neuropathy.

1997: Another study tested the same as above and
concluded that lipoic acid slightly improved neuropathy.

1999: Both 600 mg and 1,200 mg used over four months
improved the flow of nerves.

1999: Over three weeks, patients took 1,800 mg of lipoic
acid. The supplement was safe and lowered symptoms by
47%.

2003: 600 mg of lipoic acid through an IV improved pain
and other neuropathic symptoms.

2006: A study found that 600, 1,200 and 1,800 mg over
five weeks improved stabbing and burning pain. The
smaller dose had the best risk-to-benefit ratio.

Overall, three conclusions have been drawn from the past
studies. One: short-term treatment for three weeks with 600
mg intravenously reduced many of the neuropathic
symptoms. Two: taking lipoic acid orally for four to seven
months reduced both peripheral and cardiac neuropathic
symptoms. Three: lipoic acid appears to be quite safe.

Lipoic acid supplements are considered safe in doses of up
to 1,800 mg a day for six months. The most commonly
reported side effects after oral use include allergic
reactions, such as skin rashes, hives and itching, and
gastrointestinal complaints, such as vomiting, diarrhea,
nausea, and abdominal pain.

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Keywords : lipoic acid, diabetic neuropathy, natural supplements, diabetes,

Category : Health and Fitness : Health and Fitness

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