A 2025 systematic review published in the journal Nutrients analyzed the role of folate supplementation in managing peripheral neuropathy (PN). The review synthesized data from 12 studies, which included a total of 3015 patients. The findings demonstrated "promising symptomatic benefits". This included pain reductions reaching 3 points , symptom resolution rates as high as 87.5% , and improvements in Neuropathy Total Symptom Score (NTSS-6) scores ranging from 0.9 to 1.5 points.
Beyond symptoms, the review also highlighted objective structural improvements, such as increases in epidermal nerve fiber density (ENFD) that reached 97% in one case. Furthermore, folate supplementation was found to significantly decrease levels of homocysteine and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). The review concluded that folate has an "excellent safety profile," reporting only one adverse event among 1367 individuals.
• "This information is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice."
• "The study discussed is a systematic review, which synthesizes data from 12 other studies (including observational studies and randomized controlled trials). The included studies used various folate forms and dosages, often in combination with other B-vitamins."
• "Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, supplement regimen, or treatment plan, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications."
#Folate #PeripheralNeuropathy #DiabeticPeripheralNeuropathy #SystematicReview #Homocysteine
Alves Maues, A.C.; Moren Abat, M.G.; Benlloch, M.; Mariscal, G. Folate Supplementation for Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2025, 17, 3299. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17203299
Folate, folic acid, peripheral neuropathy, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, systematic review, L-methylfolate, NTSS-6, epidermal nerve fiber density, ENFD, pain scores, homocysteine, hs-CRP, nerve regeneration, nerve health, Metanx, methylcobalamin, pyridoxal-5'-phosphate, PN, DPN, neuroprotection, vitamin B, myelin maintenance, symptom resolution, UMP, B12