Mailbag! Neuropathy Pain? Ease Tingling in Hands and Feet
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted April 9, 2024
“I’m diabetic and have burning, tingling pain in my feet. My doctor says it is peripheral neuropathy, and there aren’t any cures. But do you have any tips to help me deal with it?”
—Hank
Hi Hank,
Uncontrolled blood sugar can trigger nerve pain called peripheral neuropathy.
This condition causes pain and numbness, usually in the nerves of your hands and feet, that sufferers typically describe as burning, tingling, or electrical shock sensations.
Around 20 million Americans are living with peripheral neuropathy—most are diabetic with compromised blood flow.
Poor blood circulation robs nerves of vital oxygen and nutrients, causing them to “misfire,” which is likely why you’re battling chronic numbness, tingling, and pain.
As I often explain to my patients, the best way to relieve symptoms is to tackle the root cause of a problem.
This is why I advised my diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy to work on improving their blood sugar control. Natural nutrients like berberine and the mineral chromium support healthier blood sugar.
This nourishes the nerves by providing them the nutrients they need. But it’s not the only step that can help.
- Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA): This master super-antioxidant supports and protects healthy nerves. It works so well because it helps regenerate other antioxidants, including vitamins C, E, glutathione, and CoQ10. I typically advise taking 300–1,200 milligrams daily.
- CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10): This antioxidant is found throughout our bodies and is used for energy production and antioxidant protection. CoQ10 lowers inflammation and powers mitochondria—the energy source for all your cells.
- Fish oil: The docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) found in fish oil have anti-inflammatory effects. Studies show each can help with peripheral neuropathy. I recommend between 1,000 and 3,000 milligrams a day.
- B vitamins: Everything your nerves do requires B vitamins. I suggest people take a B-complex to get all of them.
- Exercise: There’s no need to try being an Olympian, but get out and move your body daily.
P.S. This ONE change costs you nothing, is easy to master, and could DRAMATICALLY improve your blood sugar control.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
Study Reveals We’re Breathing in Dangerous Chemicals
Think about the last time you stepped outside or even sat in your home with the windows open. Well, what if I told you that you’re likely breathing in toxic chemicals that could harm your health, no matter where you are? A recent study out of California warns that airborne toxins, called plasticizers, are everywhere....
Mailbag: Battling Joint Pain? Natural Solutions Could Help
“I have bone-on-bone knees. I refuse to see doctors about it anymore because their meds keep me sick or make me unable to function. So, I quit. I’ve ordered several things online to help with pain. Some are pretty good. I need help deciding what to take.” -Fed Up and Aching Dear Fed Up, I...
Your Washed Fruits and Veggies Might STILL Be Toxic
We’ve all been there. Standing at the kitchen sink, dutifully washing our fruits and vegetables to remove the pesticides, feeling good about our healthy choices. But there’s a chance that all that scrubbing might be giving you a false sense of security… Unfortunately, the latest research on pesticides in our produce is downright alarming. And...
Peace, Joy, and... Pressure? How to Relieve Holiday Stress
The holiday season is upon us, bringing twinkling lights, good cheer, and… stress? If you’re feeling more frazzled than festive, you’re not alone. A recent American Psychological Association (APA) poll reveals a startling reality about our collective holiday experience. We often paint the holidays as a picture-perfect time of joy and togetherness. But for many,...
The Longevity Secret Hiding in Your Produce Drawer
Scientists recently uncovered a remarkable anti-aging compound that not only extends life… it could help protect your brain from age-related decline at the same time. And the best part? This secret to living longer (and better) might ALREADY be hiding in plain sight in your refrigerator… New animal research published in the journal Antioxidants has...
Playlist Hack SPEEDS UP Surgery Recovery
When you have surgery scheduled, you don’t just worry about the day of the operation. There’s the anxiety leading up to the surgery. And then, even worse, there’s the painful recovery afterward. But now scientists say there’s a drug-free way to bounce back FASTER with less pain and anxiety. And the trick is as simple...
Is Wine Good for Heart Health? The Truth REVEALED
For years, many of us have savored an evening glass of red wine, comforted by the notion that this amount of alcohol might benefit our heart health. Well, unfortunately, I have to be the bearer of bad news… Recent research is challenging this long-held belief. In fact, there’s growing evidence that even light to moderate...
The Surprising Reason to Embrace Holiday Break
When the holiday season arrives, you often hear warnings about managing the stress of family gatherings, social commitments, and overindulgent meals. However, some upbeat new research reveals that the holidays can also be a secret weapon for better health. The study found that regardless of whether you’re still working a 9 to 5, or are...
Mailbag: Your Green Light Guide to Healthy Eating
“As everyone is so quick to inform us what not to eat, would you kindly inform us of what we can eat? It seems like everything has been condemned at this point.” —Hungry Hi Hungry, I understand why you’re frustrated. With all the warnings, it can feel like EVERY food in the grocery store is...
“Jack Frost” Method Supercharges Your Workouts
As the mercury drops, we instinctively want to huddle inside under a warm blanket. But before you resign yourself to a season of hibernation and comfort foods, consider this… Braving the cold could be your secret weapon for better health. While safety should always come first, of course (never venture out on icy streets), there...