What’s Good For Parkinson’s Disease

The One Best Exercise For Parkinsons Disease

What is the one exercise that is best? As an Exercise Scientist with a background in strength and conditioning I hear this A LOT. And what is typically meant by this question is, ‘what is the ONE exercise I can do in the shortest amount of time that will fix all that ails me and will make me look good?’ While we all want a magic exercise pill we know there is no such thing. And there is also no one exercise that will address the functional changes associated with having Parkinson’s disease. Decades of data consistently show that an all-inclusive exercise regimen that focuses on muscular strength, cardiovascular fitness, balance and flexibility is key for overall health and fitness, particularly for those with a progressive disease like Parkinson’s.

Importantly, it is not just aerobic activity and cardiovascular fitness that we need to be mindful of. As one ages, muscular strength and muscular flexibility decline resulting in decreased range of motion and less ability to perform common tasks like carrying groceries, walking long distances or up stairs. Due to this, the evidence based guidelines recommend doing muscle strengthening on the major muscle groups 2 or more times per week.

Eat Fermented Foods For Probiotics

Our lack of gut health or any digestive disorders are usually starts from having a severely imbalanced gut flora.

Many people underestimate the importance of gut health and often disregard the care of a healthy gut, and eating foods that undermine gut health.

Fermented foods are some of the best foods for replenishing your gut with beneficial bacteria to strengthen gut health and the immune system.

Some of the fermented foods you could add to your diet include kefir, kombucha tea, sauerkraut, kimchi and tempeh .

What Is The Outlook For Persons With Parkinsons Disease

Although there is no cure or absolute evidence of ways to prevent Parkinsons disease, scientists are working hard to learn more about the disease and find innovative ways to better manage it, prevent it from progressing and ultimately curing it.

Currently, you and your healthcare teams efforts are focused on medical management of your symptoms along with general health and lifestyle improvement recommendations . By identifying individual symptoms and adjusting the course of action based on changes in symptoms, most people with Parkinsons disease can live fulfilling lives.

The future is hopeful. Some of the research underway includes:

• Using stem cells to produce new neurons, which would produce dopamine.
• Producing a dopamine-producing enzyme that is delivered to a gene in the brain that controls movement.
• Using a naturally occurring human protein glial cell-line derived neurotrophic factor, GDNF to protect dopamine-releasing nerve cells.

Many other investigations are underway too. Much has been learned, much progress has been made and additional discoveries are likely to come.

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Naturaltreatment For Parkinsons #6 Magnesium & Iodine:

Magnesium is vital for the health of the entire nervoussystem, especially the protective layer that surrounds the nerves . Magnesiumis also essential for the production of dopamine and helps protect dopaminergicneurons in the substantia nigra from degeneration. In addition to this, new evidence is showing that low levels of magnesium in the brain causes a build-up ofheavy metals a major factor in the development of Parkinsons, Alzheimers,epilepsy and MS. In a recent trial, 30 epileptics were given 450 mg ofmagnesium daily and this successfully controlled their seizures. Ifmagnesium can help epilepsy patients, it can certainly help Parkinsons sufferers. Worldrenowned magnesium expert and author, Dr Carolyn Dean, has both Parkinsons andAlzheimers disease in her top 55 health conditions caused by amagnesium deficiency list and says that magnesium is 100% essential for the preventionand treatment of both of these diseases Dr Carolyn Dean Interview

In regards to iodine, well-known researcher and author,Dr James Howenstein, says

Iodineis found in large quantities in the brain and the ciliary body of the eye. A lackof iodine may be involved in the production of Parkinson’s disease andglaucoma.

Inthe brain, iodine concentrates in the substantia nigra, an area of the brainthat has been associated with Parkinson’s disease.

David Brownstein M.D. 9

Best Sources of Magnesium and Iodine

-What Youll Need

1 cup of Magnesium Chloride Flakes

1 cup of Distilled Water

Helpful Food For Parkinson’s

Here are some guidelines on which foods help best manage Parkinsons disease.

• Vary your food. Eating different types of food will ensure that you consume the essential vitamins and minerals that you need to manage Parkinsons disease.
• Increase your fiber intake. Consuming high-fiber vegetables and other food aids digestion, eases constipation, and helps you feel full longer.
• Eat more whole grain foods such as brown rice, pasta, whole wheat bread, oatmeal, or crackers.

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So What Does Nutrition Have To Do With Parkinsons

1. The neurotransmitter dopamine is made in the body from amino acids which are the building blocks of protein. Every time we eat a protein rich food we take in protein, which the body breaks down into its component amino acids. Two amino acids are converted in the body into L-Dopa, which is then converted into dopamine in the brain.

2. Nutrient co-factors are required for each stage of this conversion process, so deficiencies of these may reduce dopamine production.

3. L-dopa medication competes for absorption with dietary amino acids, therefore the timing of taking L-dopa and the eating of protein needs to be managed for optimal absorption and effectiveness of the drug and the reduction of side-effects.

Therefore, the nutritional therapy approach to Parkinsons includes:

1. Supporting dopamine production by ensuring adequate precursors and co-factors

2. Considering drug-nutrient interactions to enhance effectiveness and reduce side-effects

3. Optimising nutritional status and addressing co-morbidities . These co-morbidities include constipation, depression, fatigue, and insomnia.

The Symptoms Of Parkinsons Disease

Some symptoms of PD are difficult to detect even by the specialists, while others are obvious to even untrained eyes. Parkinsons symptoms are different for every patient. Like any other chronic diseases, the degree that the disease worsen differs in every individual depending on their genes, diet, lifestyle and their exposure to environmental toxins.

Some of the common symptoms of Parkinsons:

• Constipation
• Trouble sleeping
• Low blood pressure, feeling dizzy or fainting

As a result of this disease that is a deterioration of brain health and the central nervous system, if left untreated, some sufferers may also experience other brain issues such as Alzheimers Disease, dementia, severe depression and anxieties that may result in suicidal thoughts.

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Choosing The Right Exercise Class For Parkinsons

When trying to find an exercise class to join, it can be hard to know which ones to try because there are many different types of classes that are marketed to people with PD. When you are evaluating a class, it is important to remember the following:

• It is the components of the exercise class that are important . You do not need to specifically do boxing or dance if you can achieve these elements of exercise in other ways.
• The instructor should have expertise in PD. APDA offers a training for fitness professionals which helps them better understand how to create exercise programs best suited for people with PD.
• The ratio of class members to instructors should be low enough to maintain safety.
• The class should be adaptable for people of different abilities and mobility. Many classes will offer seated options or other modifications.

It may take a few tries to find the types of exercise that suits you best so dont give up! Feel free to try different classes in your area to see what types of exercise appeal to you. It can also be motivating to take classes together with a friend or family member. You can hold each other accountable, and also have some fun together. As you find classes you enjoy, you can incorporate those modalities into your exercise schedule. For help in finding classes in your area, you can contact one of our Chapters or Information & Referral Centers. There are also many virtual classes that you can join from home.

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What Is Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinsons disease is the deterioration of brain nerves that control movement. The symptoms of Parkinsons disease have a slow onset and get worse over time. You may experience a gradual onset of symptoms, or notice several changes all at once.

Perhaps the most well-known symptom of Parkinsons disease is the development of a tremor. You may notice that your fingers, hands, or chin shake uncontrollably. Other symptoms include:

• Change in handwriting specifically smaller handwriting
• Changes in your tone of voice specifically speaking more quietly
• Lack of facial expressions
• Dizziness and fainting
• Beginning to walk with a hunched back

It is important to keep in mind that medications and other medical conditions can cause symptoms similar to those listed above. But, if you are experiencing a combination of these symptoms, it may be a sign of Parkinsons disease.

While there is not currently a cure for Parkinsons disease, many treatment options are available that can help ease your symptoms. Treatments may include medicine, therapy, and even surgery. Each case of Parkinsons disease is unique, and your treatment plan should be, too.

How Do You Know You Have Parkinsons Disease

There is no definitive way to diagnose Parkinsons disease. Your doctor will ask questions about the onset of your symptoms and assess your movement to make referrals to specialists who can make a formal diagnosis.

You can expect to see a neurologist who can complete a neurologic examination. This may include brain imaging, an MRI, or a PET scan to see activity in the area of the brain typically affected by Parkinsons disease.

Your doctor may also refer you to a movement disorder specialist. Seeing subspecialists is very important to avoid being misdiagnosed. Highly trained specialists can provide their expertise in specific areas of medicine where a precise diagnosis isnt possible from blood work or another definitive test.

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How About Using Supplements In Parkinsons Disease

Some patients prefer using food supplements. Nutrition supplements like coenzyme Q10, fish oil, and vitamin D have been linked to reducing disease progression and some studies suggest that taking these supplements may benefit the patients. However, research in this direction is still limited and we cant advise you to take any supplements at this stage. We recommend you discuss it with your healthcare provider first before considering any supplements.

Get In Some Cardio Every Day

Exercise is good for anyone regardless of if they have a degenerative disorder, Williamson says. It helps with blood flow, brain function, strength, and ROM. A repetitive cardio workout, like biking or walking, is also a good time to throw in some extra mental challenges if its safe, Williamson says. For example, naming different countries while youre walking, or focusing on the route youre tracking on a bike . Other great forms of cardio include dancing, boxing, and running. It all just depends on a persons physical fitness and ability to do activities safely.

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How Is Parkinsons Disease Treated

There is no cure for Parkinsons disease. However, medications and other treatments can help relieve some of your symptoms. Exercise can help your Parkinsons symptoms significantly. In addition, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech-language therapy can help with walking and balance problems, eating and swallowing challenges and speech problems. Surgery is an option for some patients.

Forget Fava Beans For Parkinsons

Fava beans contain an amino acid known as levodopa. Levodopa is an active ingredient in some Parkinsons medications. Seems like a good reason to eat a lot of fava beans, right?

Nope. Dr. Gostkowski explains that the amount in the beans is tiny compared to whats in your medication. You cant eat enough fava beans to have any effect on your symptoms, he says.

Bananas also have levodopa in them, Dr. Gostkowski says. But, like fava beans, its not possible to eat enough bananas to affect PD symptoms. Of course, if you like fava beans or bananas, enjoy! But dont go overboard or expect them to work like medication. Eat a variety of fruits, veggies, legumes and whole grains for balance.

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Natural Remedies And Treatments For Parkinsons Disease That Get Powerful Results

To successfully treat the symptoms of Parkinsons, andeven reverse this disorder, there are 4 things you must do

a) Increase your natural dopamine levels

b) Detox your body of all heavy metals andpollutants

c) Reduce all inflammation in the body,especially the brain

d) Repair the neuro pathways

These 10 natural treatments and remedies do all four. Solets not waste any more time then. Here they are in order of importance

Icipating In Clinical Trials

Clinical trials and their participants have revolutionized Parkinsons treatment, and have changed the lives dramatically of those affected. They have helped make available many new treatments in addition to improving the delivery methods of medications and new deep brain stimulation techniques.

Clinical trials are essential to the future of Parkinsons research, and APDA is committed to this vital effort.

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Visit Your Doctor More Often

The last and the most important advice we could give is to see your doctor often. Talk to your doctor about your conditions and figure out whether you need to make some changes in your diet to improve your symptoms.

Disclaimer: The information shared here should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions presented here are not intended to treat any health conditions. For your specific medical problem, consult with your health care provider.

Foods To Avoid In A Parkinsons Disease Diet

If your goal is to maintain overall health with Parkinsons disease and it should be you should avoid or reduce your intake of some of the same potentially harmful foods as people without the condition.

For example, a diet with lots of sugar can add too many calories and provide your body with too few nutrients. It can also contribute to tooth decay and increase your risk of diabetes.

In addition, foods high in salt and sodium content can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. According to the American Heart Association, some of the saltiest foods in typical diets include:

• Breads and rolls
• Cold cuts and cured meats
• Soup
• Burritos and tacos

Most of our patients have problems with low blood pressure, due to issues with autonomic nervous system function in Parkinsons disease, Subramanian adds. So in some cases, we recommend a little extra salt in the diet, or even energy drinks, to boost blood pressure.

Either way, you should check with your doctor about taking appropriate dietary steps to manage blood pressure along with Parkinsons disease.

Also limit foods high in calories and fat, particularly saturated and trans fat, which can increase your risk of heart problems as well as certain types of cancer and make it more difficult for you maintain a healthy weight.

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Medicines For Parkinson’s Disease

Medicines prescribed for Parkinson’s include:

• Drugs that increase the level of dopamine in the brain
• Drugs that affect other brain chemicals in the body
• Drugs that help control nonmotor symptoms

The main therapy for Parkinson’s is levodopa, also called L-dopa. Nerve cells use levodopa to make dopamine to replenish the brain’s dwindling supply. Usually, people take levodopa along with another medication called carbidopa. Carbidopa prevents or reduces some of the side effects of levodopa therapysuch as nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, and restlessnessand reduces the amount of levodopa needed to improve symptoms.

People with Parkinson’s should never stop taking levodopa without telling their doctor. Suddenly stopping the drug may have serious side effects, such as being unable to move or having difficulty breathing.

Other medicines used to treat Parkinsons symptoms include:

• Dopamine agonists to mimic the role of dopamine in the brain
• MAO-B inhibitors to slow down an enzyme that breaks down dopamine in the brain
• COMT inhibitors to help break down dopamine
• Amantadine, an old antiviral drug, to reduce involuntary movements
• Anticholinergic drugs to reduce tremors and muscle rigidity