Diabetic Neuropathy and Cholesterol: What's the Link?

When you think of high cholesterol, you probably think of heart disease or clogged arteries. But did you know that your cholesterol levels can also play a role in the progression of diabetic neuropathy? The link between high cholesterol and nerve damage may not be obvious, but it’s one that every diabetic should understand.

So how does high cholesterol impact your nerve health? Continue reading to find out.
 

What is Diabetic Neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that occurs as a result of persistent high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.¹ It often starts in the feet and legs, but can also affect the hands, arms, and other areas of the body.

Neuropathic pain typically feels like a burning, electric shock, or stabbing sensation.² It's often accompanied by hypersensitivity to touch or pain, meaning things that wouldn’t normally hurt might cause discomfort. This type of pain is usually felt at rest and tends to get worse at night.²
 

Cholesterol: A Silent Nerve Killer

High cholesterol levels are linked to multiple types of nerve damage including issues with motor nerves, vision, hearing, and the autonomic nervous system.³

But how do elevated cholesterol levels specifically raise your risk of diabetic neuropathy? Here’s how:

What Can You Do to Help Protect Your Nerves?

The good news is that both diabetic neuropathy and high cholesterol are manageable conditions. With the right strategies, you can help slow down the progression of neuropathy.

Here are some proactive steps you can take:

1. Monitor and Manage Your Blood Sugar Levels

   Keeping your blood sugar under control is crucial in preventing or slowing the progression of diabetic neuropathy.⁸ Here’s how to check your blood sugar levels:⁹

   First, make sure your blood sugar device is charged and ready. Wash your hands, dry them thoroughly, and gently massage or shake your hands to get blood into your finger. Use a lancet (a small, sterile needle) to prick your finger, then place a small drop of blood on the test strip and insert it into the meter. After a few seconds, your reading will appear. Dispose of the lancet and test strip properly, and never share your equipment with others.

   Discuss with your doctor your blood sugar levels in order to manage and control it well.

2. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

   Try the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet! Swap refined grains for whole grains like brown rice or whole-wheat bread. Choose lean proteins like fish and beans. Lastly, avoid high cholesterol and sugary foods by keeping healthier options like fruits or yogurt on hand.¹⁰

3. Incorporate Exercise into Your Routine

   Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity (like a brisk walk) or 75 minutes of intense exercise (like running) weekly. Don’t skip muscle-strengthening exercises—aim for two or more days a week. Also, try to refrain from sitting; small amounts of movement can help reduce the risks of inactivity.¹¹
    

Support Your Treatment Plan

While managing diabetic neuropathy and high cholesterol requires lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication, there’s also another layer of support you can consider—supplements. Your doctor might advise you to take B Vitamins for the nerves. Consider Vitamin B-Complex (Vaneular^®)!

Vitamin B-Complex (Vaneular^®) contains a superior 5 B Vitamin formulation which are known to have the following functions/effects:¹²

• Thiamine (Vitamin B1) is involved in the production and release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter required in conveying signals between nerve cells.
• Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) is needed in the formation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, gamma amino butyric acid (GABA), dopamine, and epinephrine to facilitate normal nervous system function.
• Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) helps with the synthesis of myelin, the white sheath that surrounds nerve fibers.
• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) is essential for the formation of flavoproteins involved in energy release from carbohydrate, fat, and protein.
• Nicotinic Acid (Vitamin B3) is an important requirement for DNA repair and calcium metabolism.
   

Suggested Usage:

Vitamin B-Complex (Vaneular^®) is designed for oral consumption, with a suggested dosage of one tablet daily. However, to ensure a tailored approach, individualized usage instructions should be followed as directed by a doctor.

For more information on the benefits of Vitamin B-Complex (Vaneular^®), kindly click this link.

If symptoms persist, consult with your doctor.