As the incidence of Parkinson’s disease
reaches alarming levels, researchers are intensifying their efforts to discover novel drugs that can alleviate symptoms or delay the progression of this debilitating neurodegenerative disorder.
Emerging evidence suggests that certain vitamins and supplements may hold the potential to support individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s or even to reduce the risk of developing the disease altogether.
Vitamin B6 May Cut Parkinson’s Risk
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is an essential nutrient for people with Parkinson’s disease. It plays a crucial role in producing neurotransmitters, including dopamine, which is diminished in Parkinson’s patients.A 2015
review of 10 studies found that a higher dietary intake of vitamin B6 was linked to a significantly reduced risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
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Another study revealed that levodopa, an amino acid and the primary treatment for Parkinson’s symptoms, may reduce B6 levels. Researchers concluded that monitoring patients for B6 deficiency is crucial.
Vitamin E May Prevent Condition
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant in nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables.
In a
case-control study involving 100 Parkinson’s patients and 100 healthy controls, higher dietary intake of vitamin E was associated with reduced disease risk, regardless of age and sex.
Researchers investigated the effects of vitamin E on the substantia nigra, a region of the brain linked to Parkinson’s disease. Their findings suggested that a long-term, high-dose dietary supplementation of vitamin E could potentially prevent or treat the disorder. By providing protective levels of the vitamin, this approach aims to enhance the substantia nigra, which is responsible for controlling movement.
Vitamin D Deficiency Observed in Patients
Vitamin D is essential for maintaining bone health, and emerging studies indicate its potential benefits for people with Parkinson’s disease.Recent
research suggests that vitamin D is crucial for brain development and normal brain function. Moreover, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with various neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s. There is also evidence that low vitamin D levels in Parkinson’s patients are associated with impaired movement.
Research has also found a positive correlation between higher vitamin D levels and improved cognitive abilities, such as attention, working memory, immediate recall, and delayed recall in Parkinson’s patients.
Vitamin-Like Antioxidant Protects Brain Cells From Damage
Recent research indicates that people with Parkinson’s disease exhibit depleted levels of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an antioxidant, in their brains. While a regular diet provides about 5 milligrams of CoQ10 per day, the body itself produces the majority. Although no specific daily requirement has been established, approximately 500 milligrams per day is estimated as necessary.
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Clinical trials have explored CoQ10’s potential as a treatment for Parkinson’s disease. In a
phase 2 clinical trial, CoQ10 was deemed safe and well-tolerated at doses up to 1,200 milligrams per day. Compared with the placebo group, those taking CoQ10 experienced less disability, with the highest dosage showing the most significant benefit. The study concluded that CoQ10 appeared to slow the progressive deterioration from Parkinson’s.
Benefits of Diet and Supplements for Parkinson’s Patients
In addition to supplements, dietary changes have been suggested as beneficial for Parkinson’s patients. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish has been associated with a lower risk of Parkinson’s.
Some foods such as fava beans and Mucuna puriens naturally contain levodopa, but the concentration is too low to have a significant effect, Dr. Guy Schwartz, co-director of the Stony Brook Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders Center, told The Epoch Times.
“It would take a very high volume of these legumes to mimic the effect of levodopa,” he said.
The limited number of studies in this area can be attributed to the significant costs involved, as conducting extensive research on supplements that may not yield any benefits can be financially burdensome, Dr. Schwartz said.
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“But they’re being examined; there are some drugs in clinical trial that are purported to slow progression,” he said. “So we’re waiting for those results.”
One promising new drug is a cough medicine commonly used outside of the United States
called ambroxol.
Dr. Schwartz noted that supplements’ effects remain uncertain until they’re thoroughly studied with a significant number of participants. He recommended a balanced diet and highlighted the importance of scientific evidence before recommending supplements.
“We don’t know what is the therapeutic dose of a drug or supplement,” he said.
Despite these promising studies, vitamins and supplements are not a substitute for medical treatment. People with Parkinson’s should consult their doctors before introducing new supplements or making radical dietary changes.
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