Nerve Health
About 20 million Americans suffer from peripheral nerve damage that affects the arms, legs, hands and feet. This includes tingling, numbness, burning and a sensitivity to touch. Our nervous system is a complex network, made up of three types of nerves that all function differently, motor nerves, sensory nerves, and autonomic nerves. Understanding the symptoms of nerve damage and the root causes behind it is important for overall health and wellness.
Nerves and Their Functions
Motor nerves - These nerves are controlled by the body’s voluntary, conscious movements.
Sensory nerves - Sensory nerves help control all sensations including, pressure, heat, cold, pain, tickling and itching.
Autonomic nerves - Nerves in this category are involuntary and control blood pressure, heart activity and all gastrointestinal functions.
Nutrient Deficiencies and Nerve Damage
Vitamin deficiencies may account for some forms of nerve damage, (especially a lack of vitamin B6 and vitaminB12). High blood sugar, associated with diabetes is also a common cause of neuropathy. This can lead to peripheral nerve damage from high levels of free radicals that go beyond the body’s ability to deal with them.
Supplementing with Antioxidants
Some antioxidants are naturally produced in the body and can help with exposure to environmental toxins that burden the system. In addition, alpha-lipoic acid and acetyl-L-carnitine may decrease the body’s free-radical burden, as well as deeply colored fruits and vegetables, and the exclusion of fried foods and processed sugary foods.
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