I have seen alot about L-arg supplements improving nitric oxide levels improving endothelial vasodilation of arteries therefore improving circulation. In your patients with longstanding diabetes and peripheral vascular disease, are there any nutritional or prescription supplements to improve peripheral circulation? I would like to know everyones experience.

There are some studies that have measured topical skin temperatures pre and post application of L-arginine topicals. They demonstrated approximately 2-3 degrees F increase in cutaneous temperatures concluding that this application improves cutaneous circulation. I wonder if the nutritionist can provide us guidance with nutritional supplements or regiments for circulatory health in general.

Hello George: Like you, I've heard about this, but have never advised a patient to try p.o. argenine. If I had more scientific backing for this I guess I would try it in those "marginally-perfused" patients we all see from time to time. Vincent