Can Doctor's Best Benfotiamine + Alpha-Lipoic Acid Help with Diabetes?
Infographics
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 19 Researches
7.2
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 36 Reviews
8.2
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Veggie Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Alpha-Lipoic acid
300 mg
†
Benfotiamine
150 mg
†
Top Medical Research Studies
7
Benfotiamine showed no significant benefits
BOND study: a randomised double-blind, placebo-controlled trial over 12 months to assess the effects of benfotiamine on morphometric, neurophysiological and clinical measures in patients with type 2 diabetes with symptomatic polyneuropathy.
We conducted a comprehensive study to explore the effects of benfotiamine on diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy (DSPN) in type 2 diabetes patients. In a randomized double-blind trial involving 60 participants, we compared benfotiamine treatment to a placebo over 12 months.
The main focus was on changes in corneal nerve fiber length, along with various other clinical measures. Unfortunately, the results did not show significant benefits from benfotiamine treatment in improving the condition compared to the placebo.
Read More
2
Benfotiamine showed no significant benefit
Effect of benfotiamine on advanced glycation endproducts and markers of endothelial dysfunction and inflammation in diabetic nephropathy.
We explored how benfotiamine affects the formation of advanced glycation endproducts and markers of endothelial dysfunction and inflammation in patients with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy.
Through a rigorous trial design, participants were divided into two groups—one receiving benfotiamine and the other a placebo.
After 12 weeks, the results showed no significant differences in the targeted health markers between the two groups.
This suggests that benfotiamine may not have a meaningful impact on these diabetes-related complications.
Read More
0
No significant benefits observed
The effects of long-term oral benfotiamine supplementation on peripheral nerve function and inflammatory markers in patients with type 1 diabetes: a 24-month, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
We investigated the long-term effects of benfotiamine supplementation on patients with type 1 diabetes. In a double-blind study, 67 participants were split between a benfotiamine group and a placebo group for 24 months.
While we noticed a significant rise in thiamine levels in those taking benfotiamine, there were no meaningful improvements in peripheral nerve function or inflammatory markers.
Overall, our findings indicate that high-dose benfotiamine supplementation does not benefit peripheral nerve function or inflammation in type 1 diabetes patients.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Improved memory function
34 people found this helpful
As I aged, I noticed my memory declining. Checking my thiamine levels showed they were low, especially on strict diets. Since taking Benfotiamine, I’ve experienced improvements in memory, sleep, and reduced irritability, making it easier to manage my diabetes. I suggest taking this complex as it also protects skin health.
Read More
9
Better blood glucose
11 people found this helpful
After just one week of taking the Benfotiamine and alpha-lipoic acid, my blood glucose levels improved drastically. I also noticed that my cold feet sensation diminished, indicating better vascular function. I will continue using this product.
Read More
9
Reduced sugar spikes
5 people found this helpful
Diagnosed with pre-diabetes, I stopped Metformin due to stomach issues. These supplements have alleviated the burning sensation in my feet and helped maintain balanced sugar levels even with higher carbohydrate intake. I’m thankful for this product.
We investigated the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a common complication affecting many diabetes patients. Standard approaches focus on lifestyle changes and diabetes control, but symptomatic pain relief is often insufficient. Fortunately, recent studies highlight promising options like benfotiamine, which has shown effectiveness in reducing symptoms over time. The NATHAN 1 trial pointed to notable improvements in nerve function after four years. These findings suggest that additional, well-researched therapies could enhance DPN management and improve patient outcomes. Long-term studies are still needed to confirm their full potential.
Read More
9
Benfotiamine may aid TRMA management
Neonatal diabetes mellitus: remission induced by novel therapy.
We explored a case involving a female child diagnosed with neonatal diabetes mellitus and Thiamine Responsive Megaloblastic Anaemia (TRMA). After being treated with benfotiamine, we saw a remarkable improvement in her blood parameters and a significant reduction in insulin requirements.
She has been in remission for two years, highlighting benfotiamine as a valuable treatment option for managing TRMA. This case suggests that benfotiamine could be a beneficial alternative when traditional thiamine treatments are unavailable.
Read More
9
Benfotiamine protects endothelial cells
PP2A contributes to endothelial death in high glucose: inhibition by benfotiamine.
We examined how benfotiamine affects endothelial cell survival in high glucose conditions, particularly looking at a key enzyme called PP2A. In our research, we found that elevated glucose levels lead to increased activity of PP2A, contributing to cell death. However, when we introduced benfotiamine, it effectively inhibited this enzyme's activation, and consequently, reduced cell death. This suggests that benfotiamine could be beneficial for managing diabetic complications by protecting these cells from damage caused by high blood sugar.
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8
d-ribose contributes to HbA1c
d-Ribose as a Contributor to Glycated Haemoglobin.
We investigated how d-ribose influences HbA1c, a key marker for diabetes management. Our research showed that d-ribose reacts with hemoglobin, contributing to elevated HbA1c levels. We observed that administering benfotiamine, which activates an important enzyme, led to a significant decrease in both d-ribose and HbA1c. Notably, T2DM patients with high HbA1c also had increased urinary d-ribose, suggesting a possible connection between the two.
These findings indicate that d-ribose plays a role in HbA1c formation, highlighting the need for further studies to explore its impact on type 2 diabetes.
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8
Benfotiamine reduces apoptosis in diabetes
Annexin V imaging detects diabetes-accelerated apoptosis and monitors the efficacy of benfotiamine treatment in ischemic limbs of mice.
We investigated how benfotiamine affects diabetes-related cell death in mice with ischemic limbs. By using a special imaging technique, we could see how well this treatment worked.
Our findings showed that benfotiamine improved blood flow in these limbs and reduced the markers of cell death. The imaging results matched well with biological indicators of apoptosis.
While promising, this research suggests more studies are needed to fully understand benfotiamine's potential in treating diabetes-related complications.
As I aged, I noticed my memory declining. Checking my thiamine levels showed they were low, especially on strict diets. Since taking Benfotiamine, I’ve experienced improvements in memory, sleep, and reduced irritability, making it easier to manage my diabetes. I suggest taking this complex as it also protects skin health.
Read More
9
Better blood glucose
11 people found this helpful
After just one week of taking the Benfotiamine and alpha-lipoic acid, my blood glucose levels improved drastically. I also noticed that my cold feet sensation diminished, indicating better vascular function. I will continue using this product.
Read More
9
Reduced sugar spikes
5 people found this helpful
Diagnosed with pre-diabetes, I stopped Metformin due to stomach issues. These supplements have alleviated the burning sensation in my feet and helped maintain balanced sugar levels even with higher carbohydrate intake. I’m thankful for this product.
Read More
7.5
Enhanced effects on diabetes
5 people found this helpful
I’m pre-diabetic and understand that alpha-lipoic acid is vital for glucose metabolism. This combined product of Benfotiamine and alpha-lipoic acid seems to double the benefits. I plan to keep taking it for better diabetes management.
Read More
10
Normalised blood sugar
4 people found this helpful
Struggling with high blood sugar, I started this product after a friend's recommendation. I'm thrilled that my levels returned to normal after two months. The quality is commendable, and it's easy to swallow.
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that helps glucose from food enter the cells, providing them with energy. When diabetes is present, it leads to elevated levels of glucose in the blood, which can cause serious health complications if left unmanaged. There are primarily two types: Type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, and Type 2 diabetes, which is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of physical activity, leading to insulin resistance.
Managing diabetes typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, along with monitoring blood sugar levels and, in many cases, medication or insulin therapy. Education is crucial for those with diabetes to understand how their condition works and how to manage it effectively. The goal of diabetes management is to keep blood sugar levels within a target range, helping to prevent complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney failure. Regular check-ups and consultations with healthcare professionals are essential to ensure optimal care.
Benfotiamine is a synthetic derivative of thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, that allows for better absorption and bioavailability in the body. It is often used as a dietary supplement for its potential benefits in supporting nerve health and managing diabetic complications. Unlike regular thiamine, benfotiamine is fat-soluble, which enhances its effectiveness in crossing cell membranes and targeting areas where thiamine deficiency may manifest.
Research suggests that benfotiamine may help to decrease oxidative stress and support healthy blood sugar levels by influencing certain metabolic pathways. As such, it is commonly recommended for individuals dealing with peripheral neuropathy, particularly diabetes-related nerve damage. However, it's essential to note that while some studies showcase its therapeutic potential, more extensive clinical trials are necessary to fully understand its effects and establish definitive dosages. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it aligns with your health needs.
Benfotiamine, a synthetic derivative of thiamine (Vitamin B1), has garnered attention for its potential benefits in managing diabetes and its complications. Research suggests that it may help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, making it a compelling option for those struggling with diabetes. Additionally, benfotiamine is believed to mitigate some of the harmful effects of high blood sugar by counteracting oxidative stress and protecting against nerve damage, which is particularly beneficial for those experiencing diabetic neuropathy.
While the preliminary findings are promising, it’s essential to approach benfotiamine as a complementary treatment rather than a standalone solution. Anyone considering this supplement should consult with a healthcare professional to discuss its appropriateness in their individual diabetes management plan. As with any supplement, user experiences can vary, and it’s crucial to monitor blood sugar levels closely when incorporating new elements into a diabetes care routine.
Based on user reviews, those taking the combination of Benfotiamine and alpha-lipoic acid for diabetes generally report seeing improvements in their blood sugar levels and related symptoms within a relatively short timeframe. Several users indicate noticeable results after just one week of use, with marked improvements in blood glucose levels and reduced sensations of discomfort like cold feet, which suggests enhanced vascular function Read Review. Others mention that longer use, around two months, led to normalizing of blood sugar levels, indicating sustained benefits over time Read Review.
In terms of addressing specific symptoms like nerve pain or numbness, many users report significant relief after three months of consistent use Read Review. This suggests that while some immediate improvements are possible, particularly for blood sugar levels, longer-term use may be necessary for those dealing with chronic nerve-related issues due to diabetes.
Benfotiamine has shown some support from scientific research regarding its potential benefits for diabetes management, particularly in relation to complications such as diabetic neuropathy. A study investigating diabetic peripheral neuropathy indicated that benfotiamine could improve symptoms over time by enhancing nerve function, solidifying its role in alleviating pain associated with this condition [1]. However, a randomized controlled trial revealed that benfotiamine did not show significant benefits when compared to a placebo in improving corneal nerve fiber length among type 2 diabetes patients with diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy [2]. While some studies highlight the potential for benfotiamine to tackle diabetic complications, the evidence remains mixed and suggests that more comprehensive research is necessary to draw definitive conclusions.
Further insights into benfotiamine's role show its effectiveness in reducing glycation levels in diabetic conditions, which is crucial for managing complications like nerve and kidney damage. For instance, a study indicated that benfotiamine effectively reduced advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in metabolic conditions associated with diabetes symptoms [16]. However, other research has reported limited impact on health markers related to diabetes complications after benfotiamine treatment, suggesting that while it may offer some benefits, there is still a significant need for ongoing exploration into its efficacy and mechanisms [9]. Overall, while benfotiamine holds some promise, further robust clinical trials are necessary to clarify its efficacy and ideal application in diabetes management.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported notable improvements in various symptoms related to diabetes and nerve health after taking Benfotiamine and alpha-lipoic acid. Users have mentioned substantial enhancements in memory, sleep quality, and reduced irritability associated with their diabetes management, along with improved vascular health, evidenced by diminished cold sensations in their feet within just a week of use Read ReviewRead Review. Others have indicated relief from burning sensations and numbness in their extremities, particularly after prolonged usage—some reporting significant comfort from nerve pain after about three months Read ReviewRead Review.
Furthermore, users have noted that this supplement appears to aid in stabilizing blood sugar levels, even with higher carbohydrate intakes, and has helped individuals with pre-diabetes return to normal readings over a couple of months Read ReviewRead Review. Overall, while many users speak to the effectiveness of Benfotiamine and alpha-lipoic acid combinations in addressing their specific symptoms and improving overall well-being, it's important to remember that individual results can vary and should be discussed with healthcare providers when needed.
Based on user reviews, many individuals combining Benfotiamine and alpha-lipoic acid with other supplements for diabetes management report positive outcomes. Users affirm that this combination appears to enhance overall effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels, reducing symptoms like burning and tingling sensations in extremities associated with diabetic neuropathy. One user noted that after introducing this supplement alongside a low-carb, sugar-free diet and exercise, they experienced stabilized blood sugar levels and reduced discomfort in their feet Read Review.
Moreover, several participants highlighted that they saw improvements in their diabetes symptoms while taking it with other diabetes medications, such as Metformin. For instance, one reviewer pointed out that their morning sugar readings improved after adding this supplement to their regimen, potentially addressing vitamin B1 depletion often caused by diabetes medications Read Review. Overall, while anecdotal evidence suggests that combining this formulation with other medications can be beneficial, users still recommend consulting healthcare professionals for personalized advice regarding supplementation strategy Read Review.
According to user reviews, many individuals have reported positive experiences with Benfotiamine for managing diabetes, noting varying doses that seem to work effectively for them. Some users suggest that lower doses are more beneficial, stating that taking two capsules daily helped stabilize their blood sugar levels without causing fluctuations, which higher doses previously did Read Review. Another user echoed this sentiment by mentioning that adding Benfotiamine improved their overall management of diabetes, while monitoring dietary inputs Read Review.
Others noted immediate benefits from their dosages, indicating improvements in blood glucose levels and symptoms like neuropathy. Several users taking this supplement alongside alpha-lipoic acid reported significant reductions in discomfort from burning sensations in their feet Read Review, while another claimed that the combination was crucial for achieving better metabolic control Read Review. Overall, while users emphasize the importance of individualized dosing tailored to their unique health circumstances, a consensus seems to suggest that lower and consistent doses might yield better outcomes.
9
Better blood glucose
11 people found this helpful
After just one week of taking the Benfotiamine and alpha-lipoic acid, my blood glucose levels improved drastically. I also noticed that my cold feet sensation diminished, indicating better vascular function. I will continue using this product.
10
Normalised blood sugar
4 people found this helpful
Struggling with high blood sugar, I started this product after a friend's recommendation. I'm thrilled that my levels returned to normal after two months. The quality is commendable, and it's easy to swallow.
9
Nerve pain relief
3 people found this helpful
This combination is excellent for alleviating numbness and nerve pain in feet and hands due to diabetes. After three months of use, I experienced significant relief and comfort.
9
Improved memory function
34 people found this helpful
As I aged, I noticed my memory declining. Checking my thiamine levels showed they were low, especially on strict diets. Since taking Benfotiamine, I’ve experienced improvements in memory, sleep, and reduced irritability, making it easier to manage my diabetes. I suggest taking this complex as it also protects skin health.
9
Helps nighttime symptoms
2 people found this helpful
This supplement greatly alleviated the tingling sensations in my feet at night, which I experience due to diabetes and another nerve issue. After using it for some time, the symptoms have diminished.
9
Reduced sugar spikes
5 people found this helpful
Diagnosed with pre-diabetes, I stopped Metformin due to stomach issues. These supplements have alleviated the burning sensation in my feet and helped maintain balanced sugar levels even with higher carbohydrate intake. I’m thankful for this product.
7.5
Stabilised sugar levels
36 people found this helpful
I have been using this blend of Benfotiamine and alpha-lipoic acid for peripheral neuropathy, along with my mother, who has diabetes. We found that taking two capsules daily helped stabilise our blood sugar levels and reduced the burning sensations in our feet. Lower doses seemed more beneficial than high doses, which had previously caused fluctuations in my sugar levels. A low-carb, sugar-free diet combined with exercise has further aided our progress.
7.5
Improved sugar readings
1 people found this helpful
I've been using this for type 2 diabetes alongside Metformin. My research indicates that diabetes medications may deplete vitamin B1, and since I added this to my regimen, my morning sugar readings have generally improved.
7.5
Thiamine deficiency support
4 people found this helpful
Although it's vital to consult healthcare professionals about supplements, especially when on medication, I've found that holistic doctors may be more supportive. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and learned that many diabetics face thiamine deficiency. This product seems effective, but lab tests are needed for verification. If you have insulin resistance or diabetes, consider this supplement, as recommended by experts.
7.5
Enhanced effects on diabetes
5 people found this helpful
I’m pre-diabetic and understand that alpha-lipoic acid is vital for glucose metabolism. This combined product of Benfotiamine and alpha-lipoic acid seems to double the benefits. I plan to keep taking it for better diabetes management.
9
Benfotiamine shows promise for DPN
Pathogenetic treatments for diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
We investigated the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a common complication affecting many diabetes patients. Standard approaches focus on lifestyle changes and diabetes control, but symptomatic pain relief is often insufficient. Fortunately, recent studies highlight promising options like benfotiamine, which has shown effectiveness in reducing symptoms over time. The NATHAN 1 trial pointed to notable improvements in nerve function after four years. These findings suggest that additional, well-researched therapies could enhance DPN management and improve patient outcomes. Long-term studies are still needed to confirm their full potential.
7
Benfotiamine showed no significant benefits
BOND study: a randomised double-blind, placebo-controlled trial over 12 months to assess the effects of benfotiamine on morphometric, neurophysiological and clinical measures in patients with type 2 diabetes with symptomatic polyneuropathy.
We conducted a comprehensive study to explore the effects of benfotiamine on diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy (DSPN) in type 2 diabetes patients. In a randomized double-blind trial involving 60 participants, we compared benfotiamine treatment to a placebo over 12 months.
The main focus was on changes in corneal nerve fiber length, along with various other clinical measures. Unfortunately, the results did not show significant benefits from benfotiamine treatment in improving the condition compared to the placebo.
8
Benfotiamine shows promise in diabetes
The multifaceted therapeutic potential of benfotiamine.
We explored how benfotiamine, a special form of vitamin B1, can impact diabetes treatment. This compound helps reduce harmful substances called advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which are linked to complications like nerve and kidney damage in diabetes. By boosting thiamine levels in the body, benfotiamine may lower the accumulation of AGEs, thereby alleviating inflammation and stress that worsen diabetes. However, while it shows promise for certain diabetes-related complications, we found mixed results regarding its overall effectiveness.
2
Benfotiamine showed no significant benefit
Effect of benfotiamine on advanced glycation endproducts and markers of endothelial dysfunction and inflammation in diabetic nephropathy.
We explored how benfotiamine affects the formation of advanced glycation endproducts and markers of endothelial dysfunction and inflammation in patients with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy.
Through a rigorous trial design, participants were divided into two groups—one receiving benfotiamine and the other a placebo.
After 12 weeks, the results showed no significant differences in the targeted health markers between the two groups.
This suggests that benfotiamine may not have a meaningful impact on these diabetes-related complications.
References
Ziegler D. Pathogenetic treatments for diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2023;206 Suppl 1:110764. doi:10.1016/j.diabres.2023.110764
Bönhof GJ, Sipola G, Strom A, Herder C, Strassburger K, et al. BOND study: a randomised double-blind, placebo-controlled trial over 12 months to assess the effects of benfotiamine on morphometric, neurophysiological and clinical measures in patients with type 2 diabetes with symptomatic polyneuropathy. BMJ Open. 2022;12:e057142. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057142
Chen X, Su T, Chen Y, He Y, Liu Y, et al. d-Ribose as a Contributor to Glycated Haemoglobin. EBioMedicine. 2017;25:143. doi:10.1016/j.ebiom.2017.10.001
Jung KH, Lee JH, Park JW, Paik JY, Quach CH, et al. Annexin V imaging detects diabetes-accelerated apoptosis and monitors the efficacy of benfotiamine treatment in ischemic limbs of mice. Mol Imaging. 2014;13:1.
Nacitarhan C, Minareci E, Sadan G. The effect of benfotiamine on mu-opioid receptor mediated antinociception in experimental diabetes. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes. 2014;122:173. doi:10.1055/s-0033-1363977
Kousar S, Sheikh MA, Asghar M. Antiglycation activity of thiamin-HCl and benfotiamine in diabetic condition. J Pak Med Assoc. 2012;62:1033.
Katare R, Oikawa A, Cesselli D, Beltrami AP, Avolio E, et al. Boosting the pentose phosphate pathway restores cardiac progenitor cell availability in diabetes. Cardiovasc Res. 2013;97:55. doi:10.1093/cvr/cvs291
Alkhalaf A, Kleefstra N, Groenier KH, Bilo HJ, Gans RO, et al. Effect of benfotiamine on advanced glycation endproducts and markers of endothelial dysfunction and inflammation in diabetic nephropathy. PLoS One. 2012;7:e40427. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0040427
Tarallo S, Beltramo E, Berrone E, Porta M. Human pericyte-endothelial cell interactions in co-culture models mimicking the diabetic retinal microvascular environment. Acta Diabetol. 2012;49 Suppl 1:S141. doi:10.1007/s00592-012-0390-5
Fraser DA, Diep LM, Hovden IA, Nilsen KB, Sveen KA, et al. The effects of long-term oral benfotiamine supplementation on peripheral nerve function and inflammatory markers in patients with type 1 diabetes: a 24-month, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Diabetes Care. 2012;35:1095. doi:10.2337/dc11-1895
Miranda-Massari JR, Gonzalez MJ, Jimenez FJ, Allende-Vigo MZ, Duconge J. Metabolic correction in the management of diabetic peripheral neuropathy: improving clinical results beyond symptom control. Curr Clin Pharmacol. 2011;6:260.
Du Y, Kowluru A, Kern TS. PP2A contributes to endothelial death in high glucose: inhibition by benfotiamine. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2010;299:R1610. doi:10.1152/ajpregu.00676.2009
Winkler G, Kempler P. [Pathomechanism of diabetic neuropathy: background of the pathogenesis-oriented therapy]. Orv Hetil. 2010;151:971. doi:10.1556/OH.2010.28898
Karachalias N, Babaei-Jadidi R, Rabbani N, Thornalley PJ. Increased protein damage in renal glomeruli, retina, nerve, plasma and urine and its prevention by thiamine and benfotiamine therapy in a rat model of diabetes. Diabetologia. 2010;53:1506. doi:10.1007/s00125-010-1722-z
Balakumar P, Rohilla A, Krishan P, Solairaj P, Thangathirupathi A. The multifaceted therapeutic potential of benfotiamine. Pharmacol Res. 2010;61:482. doi:10.1016/j.phrs.2010.02.008
Csiha S, Hernyák M, Molnár Á, Lőrincz H, Katkó M, et al. Alpha-Lipoic Acid Treatment Reduces the Levels of Advanced End Glycation Products in Type 2 Diabetes Patients with Neuropathy. Biomedicines. 2025;13. doi:10.3390/biomedicines13020438
Zoheir KMA, Ali NI, Ashour AE, Kishta MS, Othman SI, et al. Lipoic acid improves wound healing through its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects in a diabetic mouse model. J Diabetes Metab Disord. 2025;24:56. doi:10.1007/s40200-025-01559-y
Lu Q, Tang X, Tao B, Huang K, Li K, et al. Multifunctional hyaluronic acid microneedle patch enhances diabetic wound healing in diabetic infections. Int J Biol Macromol. 2025;296:139685. doi:10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.139685