PARKINSON’S DISEASE AND YOUR DIET

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder.

The first signs are often problems with movement, although many individuals notice that their handwriting may be getting smaller or voice softer many years before their diagnosis. Swallowing is also a key issue for many individuals as well as constipation.

In Parkinson’s Disease, brain cells in the substantia nigra start to die. The substantia nigra is a critical brain region for the production of dopamine, a neurochemical which affects many systems of the central nervous system ranging from movement control, cognitive executive functions, and emotional limbic activity. When the levels of dopamine are significantly reduced, symptoms start to appear.

No one knows exactly why you develop Parkinson’s Disease, although it is normally a combination of the following factors: genetics, environmental factors (such as physical trauma and toxin exposure), compromised detoxification, inflammation and cellular stress.

CAN NUTRITION HELP PARKINSON’S DISEASE?

Absolutely – and this is because nutrition can help support the cellular and physiological pathways that are involved in Parkinson’s Disease.

For example, dopamine is made from the protein building block – tyrosine- which is an amino acid. The same pathway is also involved in making thyroid hormones. Hence, it is important to ensure you are obtaining sufficient protein in your diet, and to assess thyroid function, when you have Parkinson’s Disease.

Nutrient co-factors (vitamins and minerals) are required for every stage of dopamine production. Dopamine is also converted into adrenaline in the body, which helps you manage stress. This conversion is also dependent on certain vitamin and mineral coenzymes, copper and vitamin C as well as the enzyme dopamine β hydroxylase.

NUTRITION GUIDELINES

Your diet should be tailored to your specific requirements, as there are certain dietary changes that are important to implement step by step, as well as to take into account your specific symptoms, such as constipation or swallowing issues.

Three general and helpful nutrition guidelines include:

As dopamine is made from protein, it is essential to obtain adequate protein from the following foods: fish, eggs, chicken, nuts, seeds and legumes.

Increasing vegetable intake, as they are good sources of fibre and water (especially, to keep your bowel movements regular) and vitamins and minerals essential for enzymes to work in your body.

Eating as much organic food as possible (as this lowers exposure to pesticides and herbicides)

What foods should Parkinson’s patients avoid?

Some individuals benefit greatly from cutting out dairy and gluten, especially where constipation is an issue. As foods containing sugars (e.g. cakes, pastries and white refined carbohydrates such as white bread) can contribute to inflammation in the body and compete for intracellular Vitamin C absorption, they should also be avoided.

There are many supplements that support someone with Parkinson’s Disease, such as B vitamins, magnesium and vitamin C. It is always best to test and not guess.

HOW CAN BIOMED HELP?

Establishing your individual requirements for key nutrients is an essential part of optimising your health and neurological function. Many individuals are deficient in vital nutrients for cellular health, such as B vitamins required for energy production and neurological functioning.

This is where BioMed can help. We offer  Bioresonance Screening service which analyses all your body’s different systems, creating a report which highlights any deficiencies or imbalances. This is especially important if you have concerns regarding the possibility of developing Parkinson’s Disease.

Following the screening an individualised Health Plan can then be created. This may include recommending vitamins and/or supplements, Bioregulatory remedies or various other treatments.

BioMed works with you every step of the way, monitoring your progress to optimise the benefits of any treatments and lifestyle changes you make.

BOOK a consultation NOW with Claudia, your Health Care Professional at BioMed, to discuss your health matters.