A common habit after 65 that can affect the health of your nerves.
From the age of 65, many people begin to notice subtle changes in their sensitivity: a tingling sensation that appears at the end of the day, a burning sensation on the soles of the feet, small night cramps or the impression that walking has become less stable than before.
These symptoms are usually simply attributed to “age”, but according to Dr. Luis Luna, a large part of these problems do not have their origin in natural aging, but in the onset of neuropathy, a disorder that appears when nerves begin to be damaged and stop transmitting signals correctly to the body.
Neuropathy is silent: it starts painlessly, progresses slowly, and becomes apparent only when the damage has already progressed. This deterioration directly affects the protective layer of nerves called myelin, which is responsible for fast, accurate, and stable signals.
For this reason, Dr. Luna identifies four very common factors after the age of 65 that gradually deteriorate the nerves. They are presented below, ordered from least harmful to most dangerous.
1. Vitamin B12 deficiency
After age 65, the body absorbs vitamin B12 poorly, especially in people who use antacids or have chronic gastritis. Its lack weakens the myelin and causes tingling, clumsiness when walking, and numbness.
Recommendation: check B12 levels and keep them in the optimal range.
2. Chronic dehydration
With age, the feeling of thirst decreases, leading to insufficient water intake. This affects nerve conduction and can cause cramping, tiredness, and electrical sensation in the feet.
Recommendation: drink small amounts of water throughout the day.
3. Hidden sugar in processed foods
Dr. Luis Luna points out that much of the harmful sugar comes from products such as packaged breads, cereals, dressings, flavored yogurts and whole-grain crackers. This added sugar generates internal inflammation that deteriorates nerve fibers.
Recommendation: check labels and avoid ultra-processed foods.
4. Ultra-refined carbohydrates (the most dangerous)
White bread, refined pasta, industrial biscuits and other products made with white flour cause sudden spikes in glucose.
These spikes inflame the nerves, damage fine circulation, and reduce their ability to repair themselves.
Over time they generate tingling, burning, numbness and loss of sensitivity, being the most aggressive factor for nerve health according to Dr. Luis Luna.
Recommendation: replace white flours with real whole grains and balance meals with fiber, protein, and vegetables.
Tips and recommendations
- Maintain constant hydration.
- Check vitamin B12 levels every year.
- Reduce processed products and hidden sugar.
- Choose whole grain carbohydrates and natural foods.
- Consult a professional if you have persistent symptoms.
Dr. Luis Luna points out that nerve damage does not appear from one day to the next: it is the consequence of repeated habits. However, small daily choices — such as hydrating better, keeping an eye on B12, and cutting back on refined flours — can help restore sensitivity, balance, and nerve stability.
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