A Functional Medicine Approach to
Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability. Beyond pharmaceutical-based therapy that one would get going to a conventional doctor, a functional medicine approach emphasizes the integration of personalized dietary and lifestyle interventions to manage symptoms and potentially slow disease progression. This article reviews key dietary and lifestyle modifications, the role of specific supplements, and the importance of mitochondrial function in managing PD symptoms.

Introduction

Parkinson’s disease affects approximately 1% of the population over the age of 60, with incidence increasing with age. The pathophysiology of PD involves the progressive degeneration of dopamine-related neurons in an area of the brain known as the substantia nigra, leading to dopamine deficiency. Functional medicine offers a holistic approach, focusing on root causes and individual variability in treatment, incorporating diet, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation to support overall health and mitigate symptoms.

Treating Parkinson’s Through
Diet and Lifestyle Modifications

Diet

1. Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Oxidative stress is a significant contributor to neuronal damage in PD. Diets rich in antioxidants, such as the Mediterranean diet, have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation . Foods high in antioxidants include berries, leafy green vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

2. Healthy Fats: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, and walnuts, have anti-inflammatory properties and may support neuronal health . Be sure to get your fish-based Omega-3’s from low mercury containing fish such as Salmon, Mackerel, Anchovies, Sardines, or Herring.

3. Dietary Fiber: A diet high in fiber can help manage gastrointestinal symptoms common in PD, such as constipation. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are excellent sources of dietary fiber .

4. Adequate Hydration: Ensuring sufficient fluid intake is crucial to prevent dehydration and support overall bodily functions. Patients should aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day, adjusted for individual needs and activity levels.

Lifestyle Modifications

1. Regular Physical Activity: Exercise is essential in managing PD symptoms. Activities such as aerobic exercise, resistance training, and tai chi can improve mobility, balance, and overall physical function .

2. Stress Management: Chronic stress exacerbates PD symptoms through increased oxidative stress and inflammation. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises can help reduce stress .

3. Sleep Hygiene: Quality sleep is crucial for cognitive function and overall health. Patients should maintain a regular sleep schedule, create a restful environment, and avoid stimulants like caffeine before bedtime .

Supplementation for Parkinson’s

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

CoQ10 is a potent antioxidant that plays a critical role in mitochondrial function. Studies have shown that CoQ10 supplementation can improve mitochondrial activity and may slow the progression of PD symptoms .

Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency is common in PD patients and has been linked to increased disease severity. Supplementation can support bone health and may have neuroprotective effects .

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)

NAC is a precursor to glutathione, one of the body’s most potent antioxidants. It has been shown to increase brain glutathione levels and may reduce oxidative stress in PD patients .

Creatine

Creatine supports ATP production in mitochondria and has been investigated for its potential to improve muscle strength and cognitive function in PD .

Mitochondrial Function in Parkinson’s Disease

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark of PD, contributing to neuronal death through impaired energy production and increased oxidative stress . Enhancing mitochondrial function is therefore a critical therapeutic target.

Strategies to Improve Mitochondrial Function

1. Exercise: Regular physical activity can stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis and improve mitochondrial function. Aerobic exercises, in particular, are effective in enhancing mitochondrial efficiency .

2. Nutritional Support: Nutrients like CoQ10, carnitine, and alpha-lipoic acid support mitochondrial function by enhancing electron transport chain activity and reducing oxidative damage .

3. Caloric Restriction and Intermittent Fasting: These dietary approaches have been shown to improve mitochondrial function and increase cellular resistance to stress in animal models .

A functional medicine approach to Parkinson’s disease focuses on reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction through personalized dietary and lifestyle interventions, alongside targeted supplementation.  By addressing the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease this holistic strategy aims to improve quality of life and potentially slow disease progression in PD patients.

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