Benfotiamine: What It Is and How It May Support Nerve Health

5 days ago

2 min read

Updated: 48 minutes ago

If you've been reading about neuropathy or blood sugar, you may have come across benfotiamine. It's getting more attention, and people often ask us what it is and whether it's worth trying. Here's a plain-language guide.

What Is Benfotiamine?

Benfotiamine is a fat-soluble form of vitamin B1 (thiamine). Regular thiamine dissolves in water, so the body absorbs only a limited amount at a time. Benfotiamine was developed so the body can absorb more of it and raise thiamine levels in tissues more effectively.

Thiamine helps your cells turn food into energy. Nerves use a lot of energy, so they depend on steady thiamine levels to work well.

How Benfotiamine May Support Nerve Health

Most research on benfotiamine has focused on people with diabetes. High blood sugar can create harmful byproducts that damage small blood vessels and nerves over time. Benfotiamine may help the body process glucose through healthier pathways.

Some studies suggest benfotiamine may help ease numbness, tingling or burning in people with diabetic neuropathy. Other studies have shown little difference. It isn't a cure, and results vary from person to person.

Who Should Ask Their Doctor First

Anyone with diabetes, since nerve symptoms need a full medical workup and blood sugar management comes first.
People who take several medications or supplements.
Anyone pregnant or breastfeeding.
Anyone with new or worsening numbness, weakness, or balance problems. These need to be checked by a doctor.

Other Ways to Support Your Nerves

Keep blood sugar steady with your doctor's plan.
Ask your doctor to check your B12 level, especially if you take metformin or acid reflux medicine.
Stay active to support circulation in your hands and feet.
Consider acupuncture. Read Acupuncture for Neuropathy: Can It Help Numbness and Tingling?

Get a Personalized Plan

Benfotiamine isn't currently part of our online shop plans. Dr. Jen Jackson, DACM, can talk with you about whether it, or another B vitamin, fits your situation. In the meantime, the Ocean Ki Wellness Shop offers practitioner-picked Thorne plans, including a Stress B-Complex and blood sugar support under "Cravings and crashes."

Visit Ocean Ki Wellness

We accept insurance — check your coverage free before your first visit. Ocean Ki is in-network with Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island.

Call (401) 862-4894 or book your visit at Ocean Ki Warwick. We also see patients at our Middletown office.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Check with your MD to see if this works for you.