Molecular Aspects in the Potential of Vitamins and Supplements for Treating Diabetic Neuropathy

Abstract

Purpose of Review To discuss and provide evidence-based data on dietary supplements as part of treating diabetic neuropathy Recent Findings Few randomized controlled trials are available, but some have shown beneficial efficacy of various dietary supplements on objective primary endpoints including nerve conduction velocities and axon potentials as well as subjective patient-reported outcomes. Summary No medical cure for diabetic neuropathy exists, and prevention is therefore crucial. Tight glucose control slows the progression of nerve damage in diabetes, but an unmet clinical need for effective interventions is warranted. Consequently, a growing number of patients turn to dietary supplements proposed to possess neuroprotective properties. However, the postulated effects are often not evidence-based as they have not been tested scientifically. Taken together, this review will focus on dietary supplements investigated in clinical trials for their potential capabilities in targeting the molecular mechanisms involved in the underlying pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy.

Exploring the effectiveness of vitamin B12 complex and alpha-lipoic acid as a treatment for diabetes mellitus/neuropathy: a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

“…8 9 Furthermore, ALA has been shown to increase the uptake of glucose to control glucose metabolism. [7][8][9] Moreover, another study showed an improvement in glucose level and insulin sensitivity following the use of ALA treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. 10 In metabolic syndromes, a previous meta-analysis demonstrated that treatment of ALA improves the marker of inflammation.…”

“…It has been estimated that at least 50% of patients with DM will develop DN in their life, with approximately 20% experiencing neuropathic-related pains 1 2. Nerves are susceptible to changes in glucose concentrations, and insulin treatment makes it impossible for neurons to continue regulating glucose uptake 3 4…”

“…Most importantly, ALA is a potent antioxidant agent that can neutralise ROS and nerve blood flow, resulting in improved distal nerve conductions1. Additionally, ALA acts as a scavenger for free radicals intracellularly and extracellularly to repair oxidative damage 8 9. Furthermore, ALA has been shown to increase the uptake of glucose to control glucose metabolism 7–9.…”

“…Additionally, ALA acts as a scavenger for free radicals intracellularly and extracellularly to repair oxidative damage 8 9. Furthermore, ALA has been shown to increase the uptake of glucose to control glucose metabolism 7–9. Moreover, another study showed an improvement in glucose level and insulin sensitivity following the use of ALA treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus 10.…”