Nervous System Support

Nutrients connected to Nervous System Support

A link means the body needs the nutrient for this, or that low intake is linked to it. It does not mean extra supplements help if your intake is already adequate; each link shows how strong the evidence is.

• Vitamin B1 (thiamin)Established role

  Thiamin supports normal nerve function and signalling.

• Vitamin B6Established role

  B6 helps maintain normal nerve function and the making of neurotransmitters. Supplements matter mainly when intake is low.

• Vitamin B12Established role

  B12 helps maintain nerves. Supplements prevent or treat deficiency-related nerve problems.

• Vitamin EDeficiency link

  Adequate vitamin E is needed to avoid nerve damage; supplements help in deficiency states, not as a booster for people with normal levels.

• Vitamin B2Established role

  The NHS says riboflavin helps keep the nervous system healthy.

• Vitamin B3 (niacin)Established role

  Niacin helps keep the nervous system healthy.

• MagnesiumEstablished role

  Magnesium is needed for normal nerve function; supplements help mainly where intake or blood levels are low.

• PotassiumEstablished role

  Potassium supports nerve function as part of normal body chemistry.

• PhosphorusEstablished role

  Phosphorus supports nerve signalling as part of its normal role.

• TyrosineEstablished role

  Tyrosine is the raw material for dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine. The body makes enough in most people, so extra is not shown to add benefit.

• Alpha-lipoic acidPreliminary or mixed

  Symptom scores improved in several diabetic neuropathy trials, not in others; long-term nerve protection is unknown.

• Mucuna pruriens (velvet bean)Preliminary or mixed

  Used as a levodopa source in Parkinson's; support is limited to small trials and needs a neurologist.

• CalciumEstablished role

  Calcium is part of normal nerve signalling; this does not show that supplements add benefit.

• Fish oilEstablished role

  Omega-3 supports a baby's nervous system development (NHS). Supplements are not shown to add benefit beyond adequate intake.

• California poppyLab or animal research only

  Extract acts on benzodiazepine receptors in mice; animal evidence only.

• Oat straw (milky oats)Preliminary or mixed

  Traditional use for stress and sleep; limited trial evidence.

• Black horehoundPreliminary or mixed

  ESCOP lists a nervous-tension and sleep indication; human evidence is one uncontrolled study.

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