Diet and Parkinson’s Disease

Everyone knows that your diet plays a big role in your overall health. A healthy diet helps fight obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even some types of cancer.

 

But current research shows that eating right can also have an impact on things like Parkinson’s disease. For example, a new study shows that people that eat ultra processed foods may see an increase in the early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease.

 

The project out of the American Academy of Neurology looked at individuals who had a higher than normal diet of ultra processed foods, such as hotdogs, store bought cookies, and processed breakfast cereals. They found that the people that consumed above average amounts of these foods were more likely to suffer from early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease than people who tended to avoid these types of foods.

 

Prodromal Parkinson’s disease is the earliest manifestation of this disease. It consists of largely non-motor related symptoms. At this stage, the goal is to prolong the onset of the advanced form of the disease, and this can be done in some cases for as long as 20 years.

 

The researchers pointed out that eating a healthy diet may be a huge benefit in these instances. They found that diets high in ultra processed foods led to increased symptoms across the board for early Parkinson’s, except for increased risk of constipation.

 

 

The team published their findings in the online journal, Neurology, a publication of the American Academy of Neurology. Hopefully, this research helps advance the treatment of those that suffer from Parkinson’s. There’s no cure for the disease at this point, only treatments meant to address symptoms and to help those suffering live a higher quality of life for longer periods of time.

 

Additionally, the researchers pointed out that eating ultra processed food is not necessarily a cause of Parkinson’s disease. They stated that there is a strong correlation present, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that there is a causal effect. Still, for those that are at a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s, this relationship should be noted because it could increase the likelihood that the disease will develop or speed up the presence of full blown symptoms in those that will get the disease in the future.

 

Diet is just one part of life. Lots of other things influence your health and continued wellbeing as you age. Senior care is another part of that overall puzzle. If you have questions about the care process, we’d be happy to talk more with you. Senior care is what we do here at Paradise In-Home Care. We even offer a free consultation session that is designed to answer questions, address concerns, and get you pointed in the right direction. We’re always happy to talk with you, even if Paradise In-Home Care isn’t right for your needs. Getting folks in our community connected to the best services for their unique situations is a huge part of the improved wellbeing of the seniors in our area.

 

We’re here to help. Give us a call today to learn more about how care might be able to help your family.