Alpha liopic acid and its benefits for individuals with diabetes

DIABETIC NEUROPATHY is a prevalent complication of diabetes that affects the nerves, leading to discomfort and reduced sensation in affected areas. This condition arises due to prolonged exposure to high blood sugar levels, which can damage the nerves over time.

Nerves carry messages between the brain and every part of our bodies so that we can see, hear, feel and move. They also carry signals to parts of the body such as the heart, making it beat at different speeds, and the lungs, so we can breathe.

Damage to the nerves can therefore cause serious problems in various parts of the body for people with type 1, type 2 or other types of diabetes.

The nerves carry chemical messages to and from the brain about what we can feel. When the nerves are damaged these messages cannot be sent properly, which leads to a change in sensation or feeling. This can lead to feelings of numbness, tingling, burning, discomfort or shooting pains.

Sometimes these sensations can be worse at night. Living with any type of long-term pain, whether you can always feel it or you regularly get periods of pain, can be very distressing and have a negative impact on your mental health and general well-being.

According to Dr Janice Simmonds-Fisher, chief executive officer and founder at Bioregeneration Integrated Medical Centre, living with diabetes can be challenging, and one of the most common complications faced by individuals with this condition is diabetic neuropathy.

Hope on the horizon

Characterised by pain, tingling, and numbness, especially in the legs and feet, diabetic neuropathy can significantly impact one’s quality of life. However, Dr Simmonds-Fisher said there is hope on the horizon in the form of alpha lipoic acid (ALA).

“Alpha lipoic acid is a potent antioxidant naturally present in the body and commonly found in foods like spinach, broccoli, and potatoes. This antioxidant plays a crucial role in energy production and has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic benefits in managing diabetic neuropathy,” Dr Simmonds-Fisher said.

ALA infusions offer a direct route for delivering the antioxidant into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This method ensures faster and more efficient absorption, leading to prompt relief from neuropathic symptoms.

“During an ALA infusion session, patients receive the antioxidant via an intravenous drip. The process is straightforward and typically takes around 30-60 minutes. The medical team ensures patient comfort and closely monitors them throughout the session to ensure safety and efficacy,” Dr Simmonds-Fisher said.

ALA is present within mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of the cells and is crucial for digestion, absorption, and the creation of energy. It helps enzymes turn nutrients into energy. It also has antioxidant properties. Since humans can only produce ALA in small amounts, many people turn to supplements to increase their intake.

ALA has been shown to:

• Reduce pain: Infusions of ALA have demonstrated significant reductions in pain and discomfort associated with diabetic neuropathy.

• Improve nerve function: Regular ALA infusions can enhance nerve conduction and overall nerve function.

• Provide rapid absorption: ALA infusions ensure swift and efficient absorption of the antioxidant, leading to quicker relief for individuals experiencing neuropathic symptoms.

• Combat oxidative stress: By protecting nerves from oxidative damage, ALA helps reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of neuropathy.

You can help avoid diabetic neuropathy by keeping your blood sugar levels within your target range, which will help protect the blood vessels that supply your nerves.

You should also check your feet every day and have your feet checked by a healthcare professional once a year. This is particularly important if you think you have lost the feeling in your feet. Speak to your diabetes healthcare team for advice if you think you are developing any signs of neuropathy.

“Long-term results are good, but for diabetes the most significant factor in longevity of the results is how well the glucose is controlled going forward. We have had early success with the infusions, as the results can be seen after three to four sessions. It is a high-dose infusion under physician’s care, so it is more costly than an over-the-counter medicine, but it is reasonably priced and within reach of the average working Jamaican,” Dr Simmonds-Fisher said.

Bioregeneration Integrated Medical Centre specialises in providing personalised care and innovative treatments for managing diabetic neuropathy. Their healthcare professionals offer expert guidance and tailor treatment plans to meet each patient’s unique needs. You can expect:

• Personalised care: Bioregeneration develops tailored treatment plans based on your specific symptoms and requirements.

• Expert guidance: Healthcare professionals provide advice on symptom management and improving your overall quality of life.

• Ongoing support: Bioregeneration offers continuous monitoring and support to ensure optimal treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Bioregeneration is located at 15 Haining Road, Kingston 5. They can be contacted at 876-622-2055 or 876-565-1168. For any questions, email info@drjanicefisher.com or visit www.drjanicefisher.com.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com