Neuropathy is a family of nerve disorders, with 30 percent "idiopathic," meaning the result of unknown sources, and 30 percent coming from complications of diabetes. Other causes of neuropathy are autoimmune disorders, tumors, infections, malnutrition, alcoholism, toxins and heredity. There is no cure for neuropathy, so treatments focus on managing symptoms and slowing its progression. Nutrition and a healthy diet are important, especially in diabetic neuropathy, because well-controlled blood sugars can prevent and minimize disease symptoms.
Symptoms
Symptoms of neuropathy develop gradually and vary depending on the type. One of the dangers of neuropathy is that symptoms can go unnoticed, and considerable damage can occur before a diagnosis is made. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of neuropathy can include dizziness; difficulty urinating or digesting; weakness, numbness, tingling and pain in the hands and feet; perspiration abnormalities; lack of coordination; sensitivity to touch; muscle weakness and paralysis; and weight loss.
Types
Three of the most common neuropathies are diabetic, peripheral and autonomic. Diabetic neuropathy normally affects the legs and feet and occurs when repeatedly high blood sugar levels cause nerve damage. Peripheral neuropathy affects the extremities and can result from diabetic neuropathy. Autonomic neuropathy impacts involuntary functions like heart rate, blood pressure, digestion and perspiration.
Diabetic Neuropathy
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease reports that 60 percent to 70 percent of diabetics experience neuropathy. According to the Mayo Clinic, well-managed blood sugars can decrease the risk of developing diabetic neuropathy by 60 percent and slow its progression. Blood sugar is an indicator used to monitor diabetes and should be checked multiple times throughout the day with a simple blood test. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends a blood sugar level of 70 to 130 mg/dL before a meal and less than 180 mg/dL within two hours after a meal.
Nutrition Recommendations
The ADA encourages a healthy diet to control blood sugar, maintain a healthy weight and reduce diabetic complications like neuropathy. Diets should include whole grains; a variety of fruits and non-starchy vegetables; lean meats; low-fat dairy products; fish two to three times per week; liquid cooking oils instead of solid fats; water and calorie-free beverages; and snacks and desserts that are low in calories, fat and added sugar. Portion control, daily physical activity and smoking cessation are also extremely important. Alcohol is OK only if blood sugars are within normal limits, and should be limited to one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men.
Neuropathy and Foot Care
Foot care is important for people with diabetic or peripheral neuropathy because foot ulcers and amputations are frequent complications that cause immobility, morbidity, and physical and emotional stress. A 2004 article in "Diabetes Care" recommends wearing shoes and socks for protection; washing and checking feet daily for dry skin, sores, cuts, swelling, blisters and ingrown toenails; and receiving annual foot exams by a physician.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Making Healthy Food Choices
- "Diabetes Care"; Preventative Foot Care in Diabetes; American Diabetes Association; January 2004.
- Mayo Clinic: Diabetic Neuropathy
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: Diabetic Neuropathies: The Nerve Damage of Diabetes
- The Neuropathy Association: About Peripheral Neuropathy: Facts
