Nerve tissue is connective tissue in the body that is made up of nerve cells. The tissue carries the nerves messages throughout the body, responding to heat, cold and pain induction, among other physical stimuli. Good nerve tissue health is important to maintain nerves that aren't inflamed or over-reactive. Because nutrients make up the cells of nerve tissue, certain vitamins may help nerve tissue if you are experiencing a deficiency. Work with your doctor to determine if this is the case before you begin supplementing on your own.
Vitamin B
One group of vitamins essential for nerve tissue is vitamin B-complex, according to Nutritionist John D. Kirschmann in his book, "Nutrition Almanac." Nerve issues such as sciatica, low back pain and neuritis may be helped with vitamin B-complex supplementation, adds Kirschmann, since the B vitamins are needed for the general health of nerve tissue. Even when there is not a deficiency of these vitamins in the body, supplementation may help nerve tissues. Check with your doctor before taking supplemental B-complex for nerve damage.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that may help with protecting nerve tissue. It's the antioxidant aspect of vitamin E that is important for nerves, notes the Reader's Digest Association in their book, "The Healing Power of Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs." That's because antioxidants fight off the free radicals that can damage nerves, as well as the eyes and heart. It is recommended to take 200 IU of vitamin E daily in supplement form for nerve protection, but only after checking with your doctor.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is another vitamin that may help heal nerve tissue. According to the book, "Smart Medicine for Healthier Living" by Janet Zand, ND and Allan N. Spreen, MD, vitamin C is required for the formation of connective nerve tissue. The book also notes that vitamin C is an anti-inflammatory, and can help ease overactive nerves. On top of this, vitamin C fights free radicals that can be damaging to nerve tissues. Citrus fruits and berries are good sources of vitamin C, and supplements are found in health food stores. Check with your doctor before supplementing with vitamin C.
Fish Oil
Fish oil is another supplement that is purported to help with nerve tissue. Fish oils are a rich source of omega-3 essential fatty acids. These good fats calm the inflammatory response of nerves and provide nutrients to improve nerve tissue. Zand and Spreen recommend taking 1,000 mg twice daily, but check with your doctor before adding fish oil to your regimen, especially if currently on a blood thinner.
References
- "Nutrition Almanac"; John D. Kirschmann; 2006
- "The Healing Power of Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs"; Reader's Digest Association; 1999
- "Smart Medicine for Healthier Living"; Janet Zand, ND and Allan N. Spreen, MD; 1999
