Parkinson’s disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years. The symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, which usually develop gradually and are mild at first, primarily affect physical movement. Experts believe by following a certain diet you can help reduce inflammation in the body and in turn reduce your risk of Parkinson’s disease. Those who adopted a more Mediterranean way of eating were less likely to develop early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, found one study.
The Mediterranean diet was shown to be highly effective in lowering Parkinson’s disease risk according to a study led by researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
In the study, researchers looked at health data from 47,679 participants in the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study.
They compared participants’ diets to a Mediterranean-style diet and also scored what they ate using the Alternate Healthy Eating Index.
Overall, people who scored in the top 20 percent of diet quality were one-third less likely to develop multiple early Parkinson’s symptoms over 20 years, compared to people in the bottom 20 percent.
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There are many research studies that show how a healthy Mediterranean diet can be good for heart health, blood sugar levels, and even weight management, said UF Health.
The site added: “Additionally, there are numerous studies that suggest eating a Mediterranean diet can reduce your risk of neurodegenerative disease, including Parkinson’s disease.
“A Mediterranean diet may help manage non-motor symptoms like constipation and might play a positive role in memory function and reducing inflammation.”
A Mediterranean diet is rich in antioxidants, trace elements, minerals and vitamins which have anti-inflammatory properties.
The diet is also high in anti-inflammatory properties which is key when it comes to reducing Parkinson’s disease risk.
With an emphasis on long-term, lifestyle nutrition habits, the Mediterranean diet has been proven to provide systemic anti-inflammatory effects that help minimise a number of different health conditions.
What can you eat on the diet?
Eat more leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, and legumes.
Eat moderately lean proteins from fish, some poultry, and eggs.
Eat less red Meats and Sweets. Red meat is consumed less frequently and also in smaller amounts.
Use extra virgin olive oil regularly.
Avoid processed foods, too much sugar, and any products with a list of ingredients you don’t understand or can’t read very well.
Other ways to reduce Parkinson’s disease risk include:
- Eat more organic foods
- Eat more fresh and raw vegetables
- Incorporate Omega-3 fatty acids into your diet
- Take vitamin D supplements
- Drink green tea
- Regular exercise.
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