Can diabetic neuropathy be reversed?

Diabetic neuropathy is a complication of diabetes that causes nerve damage, most likely in the limbs. This occurs when the body does not use hormone insulin properly. Unfortunately, the condition cannot be reversed but can be managed with simple lifestyle changes. Some changes help manage the pain, while others address the root cause. So, while diabetic neuropathy reversal is not possible, here are a few remedies that you can try.

Exercising

While this may seem counterintuitive, regular exercise can be highly effective for those seeking relief from diabetic nerve pain. It can help you in relieving this pain in two ways. Firstly, it promotes a healthy blood flow in your arms and legs. This eventually helps in relieving the pain in the limbs. Secondly, exercising improves insulin sensitivity, which helps lower blood sugar levels. And that will then reduce the nerve damage. You can start your routine of diabetic neuropathy exercises with simple workouts like jogging, walking, or swimming for 30 to 60 minutes every day. However, before starting with an exercise routine, it is better to consult a doctor and seek their advice about which exercises you can do.

Getting adequate sleep

The benefits of a good night’s sleep can not be overstated. While we sleep, our body performs crucial functions like fighting diseases and infections, performing metabolism, and managing blood sugar levels. Insufficient sleep can increase insulin resistance in the body, which can then worsen diabetes symptoms, including neuropathy pains. To avoid this, it is recommended to aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night.

Stress management

Stress can affect our health in many ways. Firstly, it can worsen the symptoms of type 2 diabetes. When we feel stressed, our body releases glucose into the bloodstream, causing a significant increase in blood sugar. Secondly, stress can worsen existing inflammations and pains, including the pain associated with diabetic neuropathy. Therefore, managing stress is crucial for managing the condition. There are various techniques to manage stress, such as exercising, getting sufficient sleep, practicing relaxation methods like meditation, and spending time with family and friends. Indulging in hobbies can also be an effective stress-buster.

Managing blood sugar level

It’s important for people with diabetic neuropathy to manage their blood sugar levels. There are several ways to do this, two of which we already discussed: exercising and adequate sleep. Apart from this, those suffering from the condition should avoid certain foods that can cause a spike in blood sugar levels. These include foods with added sugar and foods made from refined grains (like white bread and pasta).

Maintaining a healthy meal plan

The most important lifestyle change to make for managing diabetic neuropathy is to switch to a healthier meal plan. Besides avoiding certain foods, it is also necessary to add some healthy foods to your meal plan that can help you manage your blood sugar levels. Here are some foods that you can include in your diabetic neuropathy diet

Foods high in fiber

Fiber helps slow down the absorption of sugar and carbohydrates, which is why it is essential to add it to your nutritional regime. Some fiber-rich foods include fruits and vegetables like pears, apples, broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts, etc. Other than these, beans and legumes are also a great source of fiber.

Protein also helps slow down the absorption of carbohydrates and sugar. Therefore, it is crucial to add some lean protein to your meal plan. Some foods rich in lean protein include beans, lentils, eggs, tofu, and Greek yogurt.

Antioxidants can help reduce and manage the pain caused by diabetic neuropathy. Some easily available antioxidant-rich foods include berries, olive oil, nuts, and seeds. Nuts are also a good source of fiber and protein, which makes them a powerhouse for managing this condition.

Try alternative therapies

Along with the lifestyle changes and natural treatments mentioned above, you can also try some alternative therapies to manage diabetic neuropathy. Physical therapy, acupuncture therapy, and guided meditation are some of the options that you can explore. However, before beginning any therapy, consult your doctor about it.

Even though reversing diabetic neuropathy is not possible, incorporating these lifestyle changes will prove to be effective in managing the condition. Moreover, regular exercise, healthy eating, and managing stress have a lot of other health benefits than just managing diabetic neuropathy. So, consult your doctor before adopting these lifestyle changes so that they can help you develop a well-suited exercise and meal plan, considering your specific needs.

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