By Kathleen Robb
There is a misconception that when someone receives a diagnosis of a condition that is viewed as permanent, that this means nothing can be done about it. Unfortunately, this prevents those individuals from seeking options that can support them. This can be the case with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease (PD).
PD is still not entirely understood in terms of causes and underlying physiology. We know there is an interplay between genetics, oxidative stress, toxic iron accumulation, faulty immune regulation, environmental factors and abnormal protein processing (Wei, 2013). More practically, we know that changes in gut bacteria may be involved in the onset of the condition, and that chronic tendency to constipation may be an early symptom, often years before diagnosis (Kwon, 2024).
There is also evidence that the mechanism affected in PD is the function of the mitochondria (energy producing organelles within cells) in dopaminergic neurons of a region of the brain (Henrich, 2023).
This growing understanding is cause for considerable hope in the natural health community. We have many tools for supporting beneficial changes to digestion, the gut microbiome, mitochondria function and even dopamine. While more conclusive scientific studies are still needed, the knowledge of diet, nutrition and herbs as well as IV nutrition and hyperbaric oxygen would suggest potential for addressing a number of suspected contributing factors in PD.
Change can be made immediately within the home also. Research supports that a healthy Mediterranean diet is protective against the development of or worsening of PD (Bisaglia, 2023). This includes focusing on fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains and healthy fats such as olive oil. Processed foods, takeaways, sugars and trans fats are best reduced. Further study into specific dietary advice is ongoing, with recent research indicating frequent consumption of low-fat dairy products are associated with moderate increase in risk of development of PD (Hughes, et al., 2017).
While there are many simple dietary changes that can be made within the home, it is important to note that the introduction of nutritional supplementation and herbs for PD is best done with the guidance of a practitioner, particularly if pharmaceutical medication has begun, as many natural products and pharmaceuticals have complex interactions. If you or someone you know has received a diagnosis or suspects PD, we encourage you to receive this support and discuss with a practitioner how supplements, IV nutrients or hyperbaric oxygen may support your health goals.
Bibliography
Bisaglia, M. (2023). Mediterranean Diet and Parkinson’s Disease. Retrieved from Int J Mol Sci : https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/24/1/42
Henrich, M. O. (2023). Mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease – a key disease hallmark with therapeutic potential. Retrieved from Mol Neurodegeneration: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13024-023-00676-7
Hughes, K., Gao, X., Kim, I., Wang, M., Weisskopf, M., & al, e. (2017). Intake of dairy foods and risk of Parkinson disease. Retrieved from Neurology: https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000004057
Kwon, D. Z. (2024). Diet and the gut microbiome in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Retrieved from npj Parkinsons Dis: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41531-024-00681-7
Wei, N. (2013). Parkinson’s Disease: pathogenesis and clinical findings. Retrieved from The Calgary Guide to Understanding Disease: https://calgaryguide.ucalgary.ca/parkinsons-disease-pathogenesis-and-clinical-findings/
Written By Kathleen Robb
Kathleen Robb is a Clinical Naturopath and previously worked as an Occupational Therapy Coach. With a balance between science, evidence based and traditional approaches, Kathleen considers the whole person and how to fit into their approach to life. To learn more about Kathleen, view her profile here.
