Benfotiamine is a lipid-soluble thiamine (Vitamin B1) derivative. It is perhaps the most effective of the allithiamine group of naturally occurring, thiamine-derived compounds, found in trace quantities in roasted crushed garlic and other vegetables from the Allium genus (such as onions, shallots, garlic, and leeks). As a treatment for diabetic neuropathy, Benfotiamine is more effective at increasing thiamine levels in blood and tissues than water-soluble salts like the previous Vitamin B1. Although Benfotiamine is lipid-soluble, it metabolizes quickly, producing high levels of thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP, the active form of thiamine), which then continues to metabolize in the body as usual. It itself does not accumulate in the body.
Benfotiamine can help prevent nerve and blood-vessel damage caused by diabetes. Clinical trials demonstrate that Benfotiamine effectively relieves diabetic polyneuropathy. It relieves the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy and may reduce the risk of diabetic complications. Two of the main impacts of diabetes are circulatory difficulties and vision problems. Now researchers have reported that Benfotiamine halts much of that sugar accumulation. This could result in a vastly improved quality of life for those with the disease and those suffering the age-related symptoms. Benfotiamine has become a critical nutrient for those seeking to ward off the potentially lethal impact of sustained high blood sugar levels. It has shown therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy in human beings.
References:
International Antiaging Systems. http://www.antiaging-systems.com/a2z/benfotiamine.htm
http://www.benfotiamine.org/FAQ.htm
