It is now known how much nutrition affects every aspect of our lives, playing a decisive role in our health.
But did you know that it can delay or even prevent the onset of Parkinson's disease?
So, on the occasion of today, April 11, which is designated as World Parkinson's Day, I thought it would be a good idea to have a relevant discussion.
Parkinson's is a degenerative disease that slowly and gradually reduces the quality of life of people. It makes balance and limb movement difficult, causes bradykinesia and difficulty walking, while also causing a very intense feeling of tremor. Gradually, the disease makes it impossible to carry out simple and daily activities and the person becomes non-functional and autonomous.
The cause of nerve cell loss is either a dopamine deficiency in the body or damage to some area of the brain. So how can we nutritionally fortify ourselves against this insidious disease?
Initially, adherence to a Mediterranean and balanced diet model has been proven through research to have a protective role against neurodegenerative diseases. Regular consumption of fish, on the one hand due to their content in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that act protectively for the brain and on the other hand due to a protein they contain, parvalbumin, which, as many studies reveal, prevents the formation of complexes in the brain that are due to Parkinson's disease. Directly attacking the disease is not the only way to deal with it. By minimizing bone loss, we contribute to keeping the symptoms caused by Parkinson's under control. Therefore, we make sure to consume foods rich in:
- Calcium (Ca)
- Magnesium (Mg)
- Vitamins D & K
Ingredients that reduce bone loss and are present in high concentrations in:
- Dairy products
- Nuts
- Fruit
People with high oxidative stress seem to have a higher chance of developing Parkinson's. In the office, by measuring free radicals, we can identify the oxidative state of your body and take the necessary measures to address it. Difficulty sleeping is a characteristic of people with this disease. Reduced consumption:
- Sugar
- Carbohydrates with a high glycemic index
- Alcohol,
would help in managing this problem.
Additionally, many studies have linked milk consumption in excess of the recommended amounts to Parkinson's. It has not yet been clarified which component is responsible for this association, but it is good to find out the needs and recommended intake of milk for each person, in order to protect our body against the disease.
Even though I have been in the field of nutrition for so many years, I continue to be amazed every day by its multiple role in our overall health.
I am always by your side, for whatever you need!
Have a good week!