What Is Parkinsons Disease
Parkinsons disease is a chronic, degenerative neurological disorder that affects older people most often, and men more often than women. Its believed to be caused by a combination of both genetic and environmental factors.
Characteristics of Parkinsons include tremors, muscle stiffness, poor balance and difficulty walking. Although symptoms vary from person to person, with time simple tasks like getting dressed in the morning or going to work can often become a chore.
Because Parkinsons disease is a chronic condition, symptoms usually persist over a long period of time and also progress with age. Each Parkinsons patient is different, so its common to experience varying levels of different symptoms. For this reason, some patients respond better to certain natural treatments than others.
Tips For Getting Started
Changing your diet can be difficult. Try making one change at a time, like eating a handful of nuts a few times a week or avoiding white bread. Small changes can add up to big benefits.
- Consult with a registered dietician, who can help you plan menus and make shopping lists for preparing nutritious meals that you like and that account for your individual needs and the timing of your medications.
- An occupational therapist can help you explore assistive devicesto make eating and drinking easier.
- If you experience anxiety or depression, talk to your doctor. These symptoms can suppress appetite.
- If swallowing issues are causing problems eating, a speech-language pathologist may be able to help.
I believe that exercise and weight training remain the most essential self-help one can practice, in addition to diet.
Combine Exercise With Diet
Dr. Gostkowski says if you want to feel your best, combine a healthy diet with exercise. Research has shown that regular exercise can improve PD symptoms.
Do exercise that raises your heart rate, Dr. Gostkowski says. Aim for about 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Dont worry about specific exercises. Do an activity you enjoy, as long as it gets your heart rate up. Try brisk walking or biking or more advanced exercise for veteran athletes. I recommend seeing an occupational therapist. They can tailor an exercise program to your needs.
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Using Alternative Medicine For Parkinsons Disease
As with conventional medicine, no type of alternative therapy has been found to stop the progression of Parkinsons disease. If youre interested in using alternative medicine as part of your Parkinsons disease treatment program, talk to your doctor about which alternative therapies might be helpful for you. Self-treating and avoiding or delaying standard care can have serious consequences.
Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. It is not meant to cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstance or adverse effects. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.
Foods That Are Hard To Chew
Another Parkinsons symptom is difficulty chewing and swallowing. In fact, its estimated that 80% of people with this condition experience difficulty swallowing as the disease progresses .
Choosing foods that are easy to chew and swallow may be important, as may working with a speech language therapist.
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A Completely New Way To Replace Lost Cells
Parkinson’s UK Deputy Director of Research David Dexter said:
“Replacing the cells that are lost in Parkinson’s is a possible way to reverse its symptoms, and could one day be a cure for the condition.
“This research is hugely promising, as it offers a completely new way to replace cells that are lost in Parkinson’s.
“However, the location of the new cells created through this process could make it difficult to control the delivery of dopamine to the brain.
“Further development of this technique is now needed, so it encourages dopamine to be produced and released in a controlled manner, like the original brain cells.
“If successful, it would turn this approach into a viable therapy that could improve the lives of people with Parkinson’s and, ultimately, lead to the cure that millions are waiting for.”
New Discovery May Lead To Effective Natural Treatment For Parkinsons Disease
Researchers working in Dr. Kwang-Soo Kims lab. Credit: McLean Hospital
Certain hormone-like compounds boost dopamine levels in the brain.
- The Nurr1 protein maintains the health of neurons that produce dopamine and die off during the progression of Parkinsons disease.
- Hormone-like compounds called prostaglandin A1 and E1 bind to and activate Nurr1.
- Prostaglandin A1 or E1 treatment lessened symptoms in a mouse model of Parkinsons disease.
Investigators have identified two molecules naturally produced by the body that stimulate the production of dopamine, the molecule that is in short supply in the brains of patients with Parkinsons disease. Stimulating dopamine production may help reverse the progression of the disease. The research was led by scientists at McLean Hospital in collaboration with scientists at Nanyang Technical University, Singapore, and published in the journal Nature Chemical Biology.
The team designed the study based on the knowledge that a protein called Nurr1 is key for maintaining the health of neurons that produce dopamine, which helps control a persons movements and emotions. It is thought that decreased Nurr1 effectiveness may lead to a decrease in dopamine levels, which then results in the development of Parkinsons disease.
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Parkinsons Disease Perspectives Are Bleak
Thats because Parkinsons disease is progressive. This means that the symptoms increase in severity over time.
, as well as the difficulty in walking.)
And while there are many medications that treat Parkinsons, none actually cure it or even reverse the effects of the disease.
Loss of independence
Parkinsons disease sufferers are actually expected to not be able to walk independently any more after about 8 to 15 years.
Theyre supposed to be bedridden and highly dependent on caregivers after that period of time.
And thats even WITH medication.
Parkinsons disease is a degenerative illness of the nervous system that results in loss of intentional movement and impaired motor functioning. Parkinsons disease symptoms affects smooth, natural movements of the body, and can make it hard to perform everyday tasks like speaking properly, walking, swallowing and sleeping.
With Parkinsons, the area of the brain that controls muscular movements receives less dopamine than usual. Dopamine is an important chemical necessary for not only coordinating proper body movements, but also things like learning, increasing motivation and regulating moods. This is one reason why depression and other mood changes often affect those with Parkinsons.
The Latest Research About Mucuna Pruriens As A Treatment For Parkinsons
In 2004, a study was conducted comparing the efficacy of MP with the standard medication used in PD, carbidopa/levodopa . Eight patients were given one dose of a MP preparation or C/L in a blinded fashion and then tested four hours after ingestion. MP acted more quickly and lasted longer than C/L without worsening of dyskinesias. A 2017 study also compared various single dose preparations of MP vs. C/L given blindly and determined that MP had a quicker onset of action, lasted longer and caused fewer dyskinesias.
However, when MP was given for longer periods of time as opposed to in single doses, the results were not as positive. In 2018, a study was conducted in which 14 patients were given MP powder for eight weeks and then carbidopa/levodopa for eight weeks. Seven of the patients discontinued MP, four for gastro-intestinal side effects and three for worsening of motor symptoms.
For the seven who remained on treatment, efficacy of MP was the same as C/L. Nobody discontinued during the C/L phase. Although the study showed that MP can be effective in reducing PD symptoms, it drew attention to the need for additional research into the optimal MP formulation and dose to allow for greater tolerability when taken continually.
H3: The difference between mucuna pruriens and cabidopa levodopa
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Seek Support From Others
Friends and family can be a great source of help when youâre dealing with Parkinsonâs. But sometimes, itâs a relief to be able to relate to someone who knows what itâs like to deal with the disease. In-person or online support groups can offer comfort and practical advice. They can also help you feel less alone. Ask your doctor, nurse, or social worker to suggest local or online groups you can join.
Sometimes people have problems that are better addressed in a one-on-one atmosphere. By taking part in individual counseling, you may be more able to express sensitive or private feelings you have about your condition and its impact on your lifestyle and relationships.
Itâs common to feel depressed and anxious, too. Check in with a mental health professional if you’re having a hard time enjoying life the way you used to, or if you are often angry, sad, or unlike your usual self.
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How Do Doctors Diagnose Corticobasal Syndrome
A doctor can only confirm CBD after death during an autopsy. However, a doctor may diagnose CBS based on its typical clinical features.
Even so, diagnosis of CBS is difficult. Doctors might confuse it with similar disorders, such as Alzheimers disease or progressive supranuclear palsy.
There are no specific tests to diagnose CBS. Still, your doctor may order CT or MRI scans to rule out other conditions. Researchers are currently studying whether positron emission tomography or single-photon emission computerized tomography can help identify features of CBD.
No treatment can slow down or reverse the progression of CBS. However, certain drugs can help manage the symptoms.
- Levodopa and baclofen can help control muscle rigidity.
- Clonazepam can help with muscle spasms.
- Botox injections can alleviate pain.
- Cholinesterase inhibitors can help manage memory problems.
The following therapies may also help manage CBS symptoms:
Navigating neurodegenerative diseases such as CBS is a very challenging task. It can take years to arrive at a correct diagnosis. When doctors do diagnose CBS, many people experience a range of emotions related to grief.
Heres what you can do to help a loved one with CBS:
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How Is Diet And Parkinson Interrelated
Parkinsons and diet are interrelated. The diet in Parkinsons plays an essential role in treating Parkinsons symptoms as there are many dopamine foods for Parkinsons disease to get the nourishing diet for the same.
It is recommended that the people with Parkinsons illness should keep up a healthy diet regime, including the variety of whole grains, vegetables, milk, and dairy items, fresh vegetables, and protein-rich nourishments, for example, meat and beans. Additionally, consider including nuts, olive oil, fish, and eggs to your eating regime.
Thus, the right nourishments will likewise optimize your Parkinsons medication, which helps in keeping your bones healthy and helps to fight against constipation and maintain your overall general wellbeing.
Eating an assortment of nourishments will assist you with getting the vitality, protein, nutrients, minerals, and fiber you require in Parkinsons.
You should pick an eating regime with a lot of grains, vegetables, and organic products, which gives nutrients, minerals, fiber, and complex starches and can assist, you in bringing down your intake of fats in the body. In addition to this, reduce your sugar, salt and sodium intake, which helps in maintaining your BP levels.
Parkinsons Disease Natural Treatment & Remedies In 5 Steps
Parkinsons disease is a degenerative illness of the nervous system that results in loss of intentional movement and impaired motor functioning. Parkinsons disease symptoms affects smooth, natural movements of the body, and can make it hard to perform everyday tasks like speaking properly, walking, swallowing and sleeping.
With Parkinsons, the area of the brain that controls muscular movements receives less dopamine than usual. Dopamine is an important chemical necessary for not only coordinating proper body movements, but also things like learning, increasing motivation and regulating moods. This is one reason why depression and other mood changes often affect those with Parkinsons.
What causes Parkinsons, and is it curable? There is no specific known cause, but some aggravating factors include exposure to certain chemicals and toxic water, plus inflammation of the brain. While there is no cure for Parkinsons , there are medications available to boost dopamine in the brain and help manage symptoms.
A 2016 study by researchers at the University of Saskatchewan also found a possible way to stop the progression of Parkinsons. Researchers created caffeine-based chemical compounds which also contained nicotine, metformin and aminoindan that prevented the misfolding of alpha-synuclein, a protein necessary for dopamine regulation.
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What Causes Parkinsons Disease
It is unknown what exactly causes Parkinsons disease. Experts speculate that genetic predisposition may be the causative factor in some cases.
Parkinsons disease could be a result of the following factors:
- Changes in the substantia nigra, a movement controlling region of the brain.
- Gradual breakdown, impairment, or death of certain nerve cells that produce a chemical messenger in the brain called dopamine, making it hard for the brain to coordinate muscle movements.
- Absence of dopamine that impairs communication between the nerve cells in the brain and the rest of the body. Dopamine plays a key role in many body functions, including memory, movement, motivation, mood, and attention. Low dopamine contributes to mood and cognitive problems.
- Early-onset Parkinsons disease is often inherited and is the result of certain gene defects.
Although not clear, some researchers have speculated that Parkinsons disease could be a result of other factors, including:
- Presence of Lewy bodies: Substances within the brain cells that seem to be microscopic markers of Parkinson’s disease.
- Presence of Alpha-synuclein: Protein found within Lewy bodies in a clumped form that cells cannot break down.
Stretching To Loosen Stiff Muscles Of Parkinson’s
The following stretching and flexibility exercises can help to relieve stiff muscles, improve flexibility, and make everyday tasks easier:
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Summary Of The Literature Cited
There are over 140 studies published in the last 10 years associated with the beneficial effects of plant- derived natural products and PD. This review included electronic searches of the PubMed, Medline, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL, AMED, PsycInfo, CNKI, 7 Korean Medical Databases, J-East and Web of Science with the search terms as follows: Parkinsons disease therapy, natural products parkinsons disease, phytochemicals, antioxidants and plant extracts in various combinations. The Dopamine and PD section is provided since the etiology of PD is thought to be due to an imbalance in brain dopamine levels. This review presents a summary of literature on the relationship between dopamine levels and motor function in PD, and the beneficial effects of natural products which demonstrate potential anti-PD properties. This also review summarizes recent progress in determining the potential mechanism of action on PD.
What Causes Corticobasal Syndrome
In CBS, like other neurodegenerative diseases, your brain deteriorates over time because of a buildup of a misfolded protein. Researchers believe that the protein thats involved in CBS tau normally works to stabilize the cellular skeleton of your neurons. However, they dont yet know its exact function.
In people with CBS, tau is misfolded , which causes it to build up, eventually damaging and killing your neurons. Why tau is misfolded in some people isnt clear. It might be linked to environmental changes and aging.
CBS typically occurs randomly and thus isnt inherited. In very rare cases, CBS can run in families. This points to a potential genetic link.
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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 .
Eat Wisely And Choose Whole Foods
A diet based on whole, nutrient-dense foods is an excellent first step for reducing your risk of Parkinsons disease. A high intake of fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds, fish, olive oil, coconut oil, fresh herbs, and spices is associated with a reduced risk of PD development and slower disease progression. Eating plenty of vegetables and fiber boosts levels of an anti-inflammatory group of gut bacteria that are inversely associated with Parkinsons disease and may play a protective role against neurodegenerative processes in the brain.
Choose organic foods over conventionally grown foods as much as possible. Eating organic reduces your exposure to neurotoxic pesticides and herbicides. If you cant buy all organic food, refer to the Environmental Working Groups Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists to determine which types of conventional produce are lowest in pesticide residues and are safe to buy non-organic.
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