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08/25/09 02:29 PM

"Morning highs and neuropathy, what can control or reverse both naturally if anything? I have read in this Q&A that ALA and capicium also Extend bars??"
Asked By: gb0949  

Background Info Hide
I seem to have high blood glucose readings in the morning, especially when under a lot of stress for prolonged times, or not enough sleep, anxiety etc.... It seems I can go for long periods where it is within a good range 89-112, but then all of a sudden it jumps to 135-155 for no reason (that I am aware of). However, I do tend to snack (mostly protein) at night or high fiber things. Someone mentioned a bar called Extend, but no info on where or how to get it. The neuropathy could be from a back injury 10 yrs ago when my spine was compressed at L4-L5-S1 vertabrae, but I have also been told I am Glucose intolerant. & diabetic. So I'm not sure what causes the constant numbing in my legs. However, I have sharp stabbing pains sometimes lasting for days from 1 or 2 toes on one foot. Can the ALA help, or is there anything to help regenerate nerves in my legs whether it is from the accident or diabetes? What is Neurogen(R) "also mentioned? Also what is REALLY considered normal range?

Expert Answers (1)

08/25/09 06:09 PM

First of all, you most likely would be helped with a dietician doing some meal planning for you. It could be that your snacks at night are too heavy, or your dinner contains too many carbs which causes your blood sugar to go up. You may also need medications to help control your blood sugar more effectively. Some form of exercise such as walking would also be good. Neuropathy can reverse in some cases when blood sugars get under good control. Natural supplements such as ALA have been studied and touted for neuropathy. Neuragen(R) is a homeopathic topical oil that seems to help some patients get relief without known side effects.
Answered By: susan sloane
Accreditations: B.S.,Rph.,C.D.E.,Nutritionist
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Community Answers (1)

08/27/09 04:44 PM

Hi gb0949, I wanted to weigh in on the ExtendBar part of your question. **I work for ExtendBar**. Dr. Francine Kaufman invented ExtendBar to help with blood sugar management - especially overnight. When used as a bedtime snack, ExtendBar has been proven to reduce high morning blood sugar readings by an average of 28% (when compared to a placebo snack). The study concluded that eating ExtendBar as a nighttime snack may be an effective strategy to lessen the frequency of morning hyperglycemia. Many of our customers use the product to improve the consistency of their morning readings. (Everyone is different, so please do work with your Dr. or CDE to determine what will work best for you!) As far as the neuropathy, I don't have a great answer. My T1 father has neuropathy, and a week ago my puppy was chewing his big toe and he had no clue! He also struggles with the shooting pains you describe - and works closely with his medical team on this issue. One thing he knows now - keeping his blood sugar in healthy ranges as much as possible can help to prevent neuropathy from progressing further. Again, **I work for ExtendBar** and the products are available for purchase here in the dLife store. Click on "diabetic supplies" with the shopping cart at the top right. (You could also find the company website by doing a google search.) Best of luck for you and your D regimen. ~Jonathan Lindberg
Answered By: lindjp2
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*** All information contained on dLife.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our Expert Q&A is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.

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