Neuropathy involves a group of medical conditions occurring when peripheral nerves are damaged, and symptoms include pain, numbness and altered sensations in the feet or hands. The most common cause of neuropathy is diabetes, which affects approximately 10 million Americans, according to Peter Crosta from "Medical News Today." Vitamin D is an essential vitamin produced by the skin when it is exposed to sunlight. This vitamin, also available as an over-the-counter supplement, has been studied for its possible benefits in improving diabetic neuropathy. If you have this condition and are considering taking vitamin D supplements, talk to your doctor first.
Research
Vitamin D deficiency may significantly contribute to neuropathic pain in type 2 diabetes, and supplementation with this vitamin may effectively relieve neuropathic pain, according to a study published in April 2008 issue of "Archives of Internal Medicine." The study involved 51 patients with type 2 diabetes who were also suffering from neuropathy. The authors indicate that previous research studies found that diabetics tend to have low blood levels of vitamin D. However, this study is the first that links nerve pain with vitamin D deficiency. They also note that vitamin D may help possibly because it promotes nerve growths and modulates the function of the nerves and muscles.
Dosage
Dietary sources of vitamin D are found in small quantities in fish, beef liver and fortified milk and juices.
Supplements are available in tablet, capsule or liquid forms. For general health, adults need between 800-1000 IU daily. To improve diabetic neuropathy, alternative health care providers recommend up to 5000 UI, depending on the severity of your symptoms and whether or not you are deficient in this vitamin.
Warnings
While you cannot get overdose of vitamin D from sun exposure, taking large quantities of vitamin D supplements may cause health problems. Vitamin D may become toxic if you consume for an extended period doses higher that 10,000 UI daily, according to National Institute of Health. Side effects can include weight loss, lack of appetite, heart problems and increased risk of developing kidney stones. Steroids, cholesterol lowering agents and weight loss drugs interfere with the absorption of vitamin D in the body.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care provider to find the optimal dosage of vitamin D for your condition, and other natural supplements that may help. Keep in mind that vitamin D does not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs you are currently taking. Vitamin D is not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat diabetic neuropathy or any medical condition.
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