Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Dear Terry, “I am a 58 year old woman that has had tingling and numbness in my left hand for over a year. I was recently diagnosed with 2 bulging cervical discs and nerve impingement. Do you know of any dietary supplements that could help me with this? Thank you.” — Cheryl Z., Centerville, OH

A. Dear Cheryl, I am sorry to hear of your struggles. Whenever you have damage to the discs and vertebrae of the spine, whether in the neck or back area, it can put pressure on nerves, which can then cause symptoms such as tingling and numbness. This nerve damage is often referred to as neuropathy. While most people are familiar with the problems it causes in the feet and lower legs, it can occur in other parts of the body. Fortunately, there are clinically-tested, safe, and effective nutrients that can make a big difference.

I believe you would benefit greatly by taking a blend of nutrients including B vitamins, biotin, alpha lipoic acid, chromium, zinc, among others. B vitamins (B1-B3, B6, B12, Folate, and Pantothenic Acid) help nerves function better, delay damage to nerves, and reduce the frequency and intensity of the pain symptoms. Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) can boost levels of glutathione, one of the body’s natural antioxidants, which helps protect delicate nerves from oxidative damage. Current research also shows that ALA can help to reduce the pain and tingling symptoms. Extremely effective as an antioxidant, zinc helps to promote tissue and wound healing. When looking for a formula, choose one that features B vitamins in their “active” forms, as well as minerals in the form of amino acid chelates. This allows the B vitamins and the minerals to be transported directly into the cells of the body, so they can get to work right away. I recommend taking 1 capsule of this formula three times daily.

I would also recommend adding a stand-alone vitamin B6 formula. Look for a formula that features the bioactive form of vitamin B6, called pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P). P-5-P is called the “active” form of vitamin B6 because it does not have to be converted by the body into a usable form—it is ready to go to work immediately. P-5-P can make a big difference in nerve irritation and nerve pain. I prefer to use a formula that features P-5-P blended with high quality magnesium, which helps to activate many of P-5-P’s enzymatic activities in the body. Make sure the magnesium is in the glycinate form, because it is much less likely to cause loose stools, and delivers a good dose of magnesium to help with muscle relaxation and resistance to nerve excitability. I recommend taking one or two capsules of this P-5-P/Magnesium formula twice daily.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally