Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects the natural movements of the body. In fact, for patients who have Parkinson's, the area of the brain that controls muscular movements receives less dopamine than normal, causing symptoms such as muscle stiffness, tremors, and difficulty walking. (1) Therefore, Parkinson's disease treatment focuses on eating a healthy anti-inflammatory diet, using helpful supplements, and performing exercises to keep the muscles and joints flexible.
Parkinson's Disease Risk Factors
- Being a man, especially during older age
- Whether Parkinson's runs in the family
- Damage to the area of the brain that produces brain cells responsible for making dopamine
- Toxicity and exposure to chemicals, including pesticides present on produce
- Poor diet, nutrient deficiencies, food allergies, and an unhealthy lifestyle
- Hormonal imbalances and other medical conditions that affect cognitive health and increase inflammation
Parkinson's Disease Symptoms
- Trembling
- Stiffness
- Slow movement
- Loss of strength, balance, and problems with moving muscles
- Fatigue
- Urinary problems
- Trouble speaking or eating normally
- Digestive issues, including constipation
- Trouble sleeping
- Skin problems
- Voice changes
- Sexual dysfunction
Parkinson's Disease Treatment
1. Follow a Parkinson's Disease Diet
Parkinson's patients should eat a nutrient-dense diet full of whole foods, including fresh organic fruits and vegetables. For example, foods for Parkinson's disease treatment include:- Raw foods: Raw fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants that help reduce free radical damage and lower inflammation levels.
- High-fiber foods: Parkinson's patients often experience constipation. High-fiber foods can help improve bowel function.
- Healthy fats: Healthy fats play a role in neurological health. Try avocado, coconut oil, nuts and seeds.
- Cold-pressed oils: Olive oil contains Vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant. Coconut oil and palm oil also provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Omega-3 foods: Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and elevate dopamine levels. (2)
- Fresh vegetable juices: Fresh, non-processed vegetable juices can provide the body with essential vitamins and minerals while hydrating the body and helping with constipation.
- Green tea: The antioxidants in green tea help fight free radicals. Green tea also contains theanine, which elevates dopamine levels in the brain.
2. Avoid Problem Foods
In addition to eating higher quality food, part of Parkinson's disease treatment also includes avoiding foods that can worsen symptoms. This includes the following:- Processed foods: Processed foods contain many toxins and additives that can worsen Parkinson's disease symptoms.
- Too much protein: Too much protein can be difficult for Parkinson's disease patients to digest. Consider reducing protein intake to improve symptoms. (3)
- Artificial sweeteners and added sugar: An overabundance of artificial sweeteners and sugar can lead to many health problems and worsen symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
- Alcohol: Alcohol disrupts neurological functioning. It can also contribute to mood changes and other health complications.
- Potential food allergens: Food allergies or sensitivities can worsen symptoms by causing inflammation. Limit common allergens, including gluten, dairy, shellfish and peanuts.
3. Use Helpful Supplements
Although a good diet provides micronutrients, it is also helpful to supplement with key nutrients. In fact, you should include these supplements as part of Parkinson's disease treatment: (4)- Coenzyme Q10: CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that can be used as a Parkinson's disease treatment to help slow the progression of the disease. Studies have shown that Parkinson's patient have very low levels of CoQ10, which plays a key role in preventing damage from free radicals. Take 1,200 milligrams per day as a Parkinson's disease treatment.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and acts as a powerful antioxidant to prevent free radical damage. Take 750 milligrams 4 times per day.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E plays a key role in brain health. Take 400 IU daily as a supplement for Parkinson's disease. Green vegetable powder supplement: Include spirulina, chlorella and wheatgrass to help with detoxification.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an essential role in maintaining bone health. Spend time outdoors or supplement with 800 IU of Vitamin D each day.
- Essential oils: Essential oils for Parkinson's disease include helichrysum and frankincense oil, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the brain, and vetiver oil, which can help reduce tremors. Rub 2 drops of each oil onto the temples and neck twice a day.
4. Exercise
Exercise is good for those with PD, in particular. Studies have shown that exercise is a key part of Parkinson's disease treatment. PD affects the way people are able to move, but studies show that most patients can still participate in many forms of exercise that can help significantly reduce the later risk of dementia and other cognitive impairments. (5) Exercises for Parkinson's disease include these: Stretch to Prevent Stiff Muscles- Stand 8 inches away from a wall and reach your arms upward. Place your hands on the wall for balance and stretch out your arms and back.
- Next, turn around and place your back against the wall for balance. Gently march in place and lift your knees as high as possible.
- While sitting in a chair, reach your arms behind the chair and bring your shoulder back as far as possible. Lift your head toward the ceiling as you stretch.
- From the chair, stomp your feet up and down while pumping your arms back and forth at your sides.
- Try not to move too quickly and consider using a supportive device when needed.
- Try to make sure your heel hits the floor first when walking.
- Look straight ahead as your walk, not down at the ground.
- Try to avoid leaning or reaching; keep your center of gravity over your feet. Tai Chi is a beneficial exercise program to help with these suggestions.
