Parkinson's Disease

Estimates on the prevalence of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) in the U.S. are approximately 0.3%.¹ It primarily affects older adults, and in about 25% of the cases, it may involve dementia. Other symptoms may be part of PD, including:

• Slow physical movement
• Poor balance
• Physical rigidity/stiffness
• Difficulty walking
• Resting tremor
• Slow thinking
• Fatigue
• Disturbed sleep
• Decrease in dexterity
• Depression
• Constipation

The exact cause of PD is unknown. Genetics may play a small role, but environmental factors seem to play a stronger role. Many factors have been associated with an increased risk, such as heavy metal and chemical exposures, especially pesticides.² Also, studies have shown a correlation with PD risk and being sedentary, overweight, having high cholesterol, eating fewer vegetables and fruits and too many animal products, and eating excessive amounts of iron (such as from red meat). One theory for why eating more animal products leads to a higher risk is that there is more exposure to chemicals or heavy metals, as these are more concentrated in animal products, but the risk of more oxidative stress to the brain from low intake of protective nutrients found primarily in vegetables and fruits may also contribute to this risk.

Diet

• Increased dietary intake of phytonutrients, such as with a Nutritarian eating style, may be protective and lower the risk of developing Parkinson’s Disease (PD),^1,2 and may even help slow the progression of PD in those already with the disease.
• Phytochemical-rich foods, such as greens, berries, and nuts are linked to better brain health, largely because carotenoids, flavonoids, cruciferous-derived isothiocyanates, and other phytochemicals have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other effects that protect the brain. Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are thought to contribute to neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease.^3-8
• Eating foods that are organically grown as part of an effort to reduce pesticide and other chemical exposures may be an important strategy.
• Reducing animal products as part of the Nutritarian eating style is also an important strategy, as this further reduces pollutant and heavy metal exposure, as well as lowers oxidative stress and inflammation.

Supplements

• Dr. Fuhrman’s general supplement protocol for adults (see Vitamin Advisor for details) includes:
  • Multivitamin (without beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin E, folic acid, copper), such as Women’s Daily Formula, Men’s Daily Formula, or Gentle Care Formula.
    Omega-3 DHA and EPA, such as DHA+EPA Purity.
  • Optional: Consider adding a mixed mushroom immune supplement, such as Immune Biotect, because of the potential immune system benefits throughout life from assorted mushroom phytochemicals not normally consumed in the diet.
• Additional notes:
  • Sufficient intake of omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) is important for maintaining brain health with aging.^9,10 Taking in sufficient amounts of omega-3 fats regularly may be particularly important in reducing the risk of PD, as an omega-3 deficiency reduces the ability of the brain to tolerate oxidation, leading to worse brain cell damage.^2,11 Taking algae-derived supplemental omega-3 DHA and EPA allows for a reduction in contaminated fish in the diet in order to reduce pollutant exposures.

Exercise

• Regular exercise is recommended and has been shown to help mobility, balance, and overall quality of life, and also cognition in those with PD.^12,13

Other Considerations

• Avoid household pesticide or herbicide chemicals.
• Use filtered water, especially if drinking well water.

Read

• Eat For Life
• Position Paper: Parkinson’s Disease