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10/11/09 10:34 AM

"I saw a 2005 study about how Acetyl-L-Carnitine helped diabetic patients with neuropathy pain and progression. Any more info on this or side effects?"
Asked By: uptrees  
Category: Neuropathy

Background Info Hide
I am a type 2 diabetic with neuropthy in my feet which started slowly in 2000. The pain in my feet continues to slowly get worse. My A1C readings have mostly been under 7.0 and I take 5 mg of Glucophage daily and try to eat well and exercise. My glucose levels have been ok - ocassionally in the low 130s fasting but most times less. Will the use of ALC help or is there any other supplements or foods that will help nerve health?

Expert Answers (1)

10/17/09 03:55 PM

Hello UpTrees: Acetyl-L-carnitine is an acetylated, (metabolic reaction of the addition of a component), as to compose a derivative of L-carnitine. L-Carnitine is derived from the amino acids lysine and methionine. Methionine and lysine, both, essential amino acids are derived from your diet. Methionine can be found in sesame seeds, Brazil nuts, fish, meats and some other plant seeds, most cereal grains, and especially plentiful in legumes-beans. Foods that contain significant amounts of lysine include :
  • foods rich in protein including meat (specifically red meat, lamb, pork, and poultry), cheese (particularly Parmesan), certain fish (such as cod and sardines), and eggs, some soy products, and greens, especially spinach.

    Regarding the relationship of nutrient deficiency and diabetic neuropathy, conclusive recommendation are not available at this time.

    Acetyl-L-Carnitine studies have investigated the relationship of potential deficiency of folate, with some speculation on the relationship between the deficiency,(or error in metabolism, most specifically at the gene C677T), which result in a of metabolic error resulting in the development of diabetic neuropathy. For further discussion see the study discussion by Zintzaras et al, 2007. Further study has been suggested to assure relationship before scientific proof. Focusing on the importance of eating a variey of foods!

    The development of neuropathies are very distressing, I'm certain you are taking all the proper precautions. Studies suggest an A1C<6.5-7%, and if you have a fasting level >130mg/dl then the excursions from a meal, (carbs are reflected the 1st 2 hours, and peak around the post 2 hour mark, "best that this number not to exceed 140mg/dl)."

    The other precautions for living with neuropathy:

  • watch for the insensate foot,
  • Blood pressures<130/80
  • not too much alcohol
  • Lipids normal. Thanks for asking dLife, be your best. Regards Sue
    • Answered By: Susan Throop
    Accreditations: RD, CDE, MA
    Sources Show

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