B12 acts as an incredibly important nutrient in our diets. With its depletion and malabsorption several issues arise, however it is very rarely used as a singular form of therapy for any disorder. Recently research has shown that B12 may have an incredible effect on the treatment progress of Bell’s Palsy – a form of paralysis that affects the facial nerve.
Bell’s palsy affects one in four thousand people and generally clears up in a number of weeks although for 10% of individuals it is a recurring situation, and a few suffer it for an indefinite period. The risk factors for developing Bell’s Palsy are tick and mite bites, diabetics with high blood pressure, as well as pregnant women who are more likely to be affected by the disorder than the general population.
Traditionally, Bell’s Palsy has and is beening treated with steroid drugs. They are used for their influence in reducing the inflammation of the nerve and help the muscles of the face regain their strength. Some suggest an anti-viral medication as it is believed that the nerve inflammation is actually caused by a viral infection. B12 vitamin however is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties and as a way to reduce nerve irritants whihch can be toxic. When utilized in treatment of Bell’s palsy seemed to show a better effect on the individual than typical steroidal treatment. In fact some studies found the steroid treatment of palsy completely ineffective.
A study showed that in comparison of B12 therapy to steroidal therapy, the B12 patients recovered in about 2 weeks whereas the typically treated palsy required a minimum of 10 weeks of threatment