The results of benfotiamine studies from around the globe have been pouring in over the last decade with remarkable results. They have offered a new hope in the prevention and even reversal in some cases of the devastating damage in the body that is the result of the glycation, particularly to the nervous system.

A More Bioavailable Version of Thiamine

A number of in vitro studies showed that when Thiamine (B1) was applied directly to cells in culture that had been exposed to high glucose levels, it significantly reduced total AGE formation, increased cell survival and restored reproductive activity to normal levels.¹

But B1 is not fat soluble so has poor bioavailability when taken orally. Above a low threshold, additional consumed B1 is simply excreted in urine.² Benfotiamine is Thiamin’s fat-soluble cousin, and is much more able to penetrate the fatty-acid-rich cell membranes. One study showed it has a 420% better overall bioavilability (420% more of the supplement was recovered in cell plasma) than Thiamine³ as a result. Also, another study showed a 120-fold increase in TDP levels (thiamine diphosphate - the conjugated form that both B1 and BFT become in the body), when compared with Thiamine.⁴

An Inhibitor of Glycation and Supporter of Nerve Health

Because of this improved bioavailability, benfotiamine has been shown to inhibit intracellular AGE formation in real human subjects in a way that is markedly superior to Thiamine.⁵ In one study in particular, the levels of two key AGE molecules(CML and Methlyglyoxal-derived AGEs) in red blood cells dropped an amazing 40% and 69% respectively after only 4 weeks of treatment.⁶

More exciting than the direct measurements of glycation is that we are also seeing these glycation reduction numbers borne out in the real experiences of human subjects of in vivo studies. Benfotiamine supplementation has greatly reduced neuropathy pain in humans (8.2 to 2.5 on a subjective assessment scale) with increased vibration perception dramatically increased nerve conduction velocity, restored normal blood vessel relaxation and accelerated pressure sore healing, improved kidney function, heart cell function and more.

Conclusion

Of all the supplements we offer to combat glycation, brought on by both elevated glucose levels and regular aging over time benfotiamine is the most promising. It is the centerpiece of our Glycation Guard product and today represents the most exciting potential in the supplement industry for glycation prevention and treatment.

Benfotiamine Supplement Facts