Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a complex, neurodegenerative disease that diminishes the role of dopamine production in the substantia nigra in the brain. To put it into layman's terms: the central part of the brain produces dopamine (a neurotransmitter that controls our nervous system). Without dopamine we lose neurological function that includes muscle control, coordination and cognitive functions of the brain.

A diagnosis of Parkinson's disease can be terrifying. I myself watched my father suffer through the disease for several years but I was determined to find the best route of treatment (other that medication) that could help him to alleviate symptoms and find some peace of mind. With nutritional and herbal support, many of those suffering from Parkinson's find a bit of relief from symptoms and can gain a better quality of life.

Nutritional support begins with a diet that is low in protein (too much of which can hasten the lack of muscle function), void of processed foods, refined sugars, caffeine (which can accelerate imbalance - often found in Parkinson's patients making them prone to falling), and instead incorporate vitamin rich foods such as dark leafy greens, brightly colored vegetables, certain fruits, whole grains, seeds & nuts. The antioxidant support from vegetables and fruits that are rich in vitamin C accelerate cellular function and fight off free radicals - an essential for those with Parkinson's.

Herbal and supplement support for those with Parkinson's disease include the following:

Coenzyme Q10: 1,200 mg taken daily. CoQ10 is an antioxidant that has been shown in one preliminary study to reduce the progression of early-stage Parkinson’s disease

Vitamin C: 750 mg taken four times daily. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that prevents free radical damage

Vitamin E-complex: 800 IU taken four times daily. Vitamin E (tocopherols and tocotrienols) is an important antioxidant that prevents free radical damage

Greens formula: An organic formula taken daily that contains one of more of the super green foods, such as spirulina, chlorella, or wheatgrass. This helps support detoxification

Essential Fatty Acids: A fish oil product that provides at least one gram of DHA and EPA taken daily. Flaxseed oil and evening primrose oil are additional options

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH): 5 mg taken twice daily. Preliminary research has found that this supplement improves brain function and reduces symptoms in those with Parkinson’s disease

N-acetylcysteine (NAC): 500 mg taken three times daily. NAC increases levels of glutathione, an important antioxidant

Massage therapy is another essential form of CAM that should be utilized for those with Parkinson's disease. Massage not only improves circulation but enhances the lymphaticsystem, making muscle function more prevalent. In addition to the physiological aspect, massage therapy can help to alleviate the mental stress which is caused by Parkinson's and can promote mental calmness and wellness.