While genetics is thought to play a role in Parkinson's, in most cases the disease does not seem to run in families. Many researchers now believe that Parkinson's results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins.
Parkinson's disease is caused by a loss of nerve cells in the part of the brain called the substantia nigra. Nerve cells in this part of the brain are responsible for producing a chemical called dopamine.
Tremors, muscle stiffness and slowness of movement are all common early symptoms of Parkinson's – but there are also other signs to be aware of. Sleep and night-time problems are common in Parkinson's.
Berries, green leafy vegetables, eggs, fish and oil have neuroprotective properties which can reduce cognitive decline and improve memory function. Yogurt, kefir and raw sauerkraut, natural probiotics, can also increase natural dopamine production.
Prioritize daily tasks. Get outside help as needed for some tasks such as yard work, housecleaning or home maintenance. Regular exercise can help manage stress. Seek help from a counselor to resolve relationship conflicts.
“Movement, especially exercises that encourage balance and reciprocal patterns [movements that require coordination of both sides of your body], can actually slow progression of the disease,” she says.
Green tea is a great beverage if you wish to increase your dopamine levels naturally. Green tea is high in caffeine which boosts our energy levels. Along with this, it also boosts our metabolism. It is also rich in antioxidants and promotes better overall health.
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can boost dopamine levels, specifically apples, bananas, oranges, watermelon, strawberries, avocados, beets, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, velvet beans, lima beans, and peas.
This mental side of Parkinson's can start with confusion and progress to include hallucinations and dementia. The hallucinations, when coupled with dementia, is certainly one of the most heartbreaking aspects of Parkinson's. “The hallucinations and dementia, and returning to a 2nd childhood.”
It should be noted that the life expectancy of Parkinson's disease can be normal or near normal. However, a number of factors can shorten life expectancy. According to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, patients usually live between 10 and 20 years after diagnosis.
Some studies have reported that the average time from onset of Parkinson's to developing dementia is about 10 years. One large study found that about three-quarters of people who live with Parkinson's for more than 10 years will develop dementia.
PSP is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson's disease, especially early in the disorder, as they share many symptoms, including stiffness, movement difficulties, clumsiness, bradykinesia (slow movement), and rigidity of muscles. However, PSP progresses more rapidly than Parkinson's disease.
Most people diagnosed with PD are age 60 years or older, however, an estimated 5 to 10 percent of people with PD are diagnosed before the age of 50. Approximately 500,000 Americans are diagnosed with PD, but given that many individuals go undiagnosed or are misdiagnosed the actual number is likely much higher.
Organic pollutants: PCBs, or polychlorinated biphenyls, were used in various industrial processes until they were banned in the 1970s. Researchers have found high concentrations of PCBs in the brains of people who had Parkinson's.
People consuming high sugar and saturated fats reportedly suffer from lower levels of dopamine. Lack of protein-based foods too can lead to dopamine deficiency, as it compromises on I-tyrosine, an amino acid which plays a major role in triggering dopamine in the body.
Engage in activities that make you happy or feel relaxed. This is thought to increase dopamine levels. Some examples include exercise, meditation, yoga, massage, playing with a pet, walking in nature or reading a book.
However, magnesium inhibits dopamine release. Therefore, magnesium may inhibit calcium-dependent brain function through dopaminergic neurons, and consequently reduce the effect of calcium on ethanol activity.
But did you know avocados are especially good for people with Parkinson's Disease? Avocados are high in: Fiber and good fats. Both help fill you up, absorb water, and prevent constipation.
Patients with vitamin C deficiencies and parkinsonism can show rapid improvement with vitamin C replacement therapy. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) deficiency is known to affect brain function and is associated with parkinsonism.
Clinical observations amongst in-patients with PD in Dresden suggested an increased chocolate consumption. We speculated that due to its high content of biogenic amines chocolate may partially substitute the dopaminergic system and may improve PD symptoms.