Should we abstain from alcohol?
 

Hi:
I've had idiopathic PN for about a year. My neurologist said it is good to have only one drink per day. I was averaging about 7 drinks per week, but would typically have 2-3 drinks on Fri. and Sat.
Would it be best to abstain completely from alcohol since it is a toxic? What are your experiences?
-Stuart

Some people may have to abstain and others not.

Go one month without any alcohol at all, and see if you notice a difference. If you do, then that is your answer.

People vary genetically in how they metabolize alcohols. The enzymes that do this are made from vitamin B1, Thiamine.
Some have very low levels of these enzymes (common in Asian people) and cannot metabolize alcohol at all. These people flush uncomfortably when drinking, and may vomit often and after only a little alcohol.

Taking thiamine extra has always been recommended for people who drink. The newer better form of thiamine is called benfotiamine. This is not commonly found in stores, and most of us buy it online. I use the Doctor's Best brand.
Drinkers who have PN symptoms, should be taking this supplement, IMO. 300mg a day is a typical dose.

more here:
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/post653193-4.html

Hi Stuart!:)
I agree this is a very individual decision.
We are always making some trade-offs in order to do some things in life.
We may want to learn just how much we are trading off in each case and then make a fully informed decision about what we want to do in each case!
Enjoy the day! :D
~DejaVu