Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative condition of the central nervous system characterized by the body’s gradual loss of movement and coordination. This is the result of the death of brain cells responsible for the production of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Parkinson’s underlying cause is somewhat of a mystery, although experts have found that the diminution of dopamine-manufacturing cells might be aggravated by oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction.
What this means to Parkinson’s patients is that they will likely follow a path typified by the loss of motor function and, over time, a cognitive decline and possibly a form of dementia. Conventional medical treatments have for the most part been ineffective is thwarting or reversing the course of the disease, although natural remedies have shown promise in supporting neuronal health while enhancing mitochondrial function.
Tremors, most often in the hands, usually are the first sign of Parkinson’s disease. Other symptoms that can emerge include muscle cramping or rigidity, difficulty swallowing, dizziness, depression and/or anxiety, and incontinence or constipation. Still others are depression and fatigue, urinary issues, difficulty speaking, sleep problems, and sexual dysfunction.
7 Natural Remedies to Help Slow Parkinson’s Progression
Prescription medicines can be used to help regular a Parkinson’s patient’s state of mind and enhance motor control, such as when it comes to walking. But there are natural remedies such as supplements and herbs that, while not cures, can assist in slowing down a patient’s deteriorating conditions and loss of quality of life. Like with any dietary supplement, herb, or vitamin, always be sure to discuss their use with a physician or other healthcare professional before adding them to your daily regimen. Seven such natural health aids are summarized below:
Vitamin C. It’s best known for its capacity to bolster the immune system, but as an antioxidant, it can also guard against free radical damage, which is sometimes found in Parkinson’s patients.
Calcium/Vitamin D. These two substances sometimes work in tandem for the proper mineralization of bone, which makes them instrumental to the health of PD patients. Why is that? Because osteoporosis, a debilitating condition that gradually weakens the bones and makes them fragile, is often found in Parkinson’s patients. Making sure calcium and vitamin D are in their daily regimen should be atop PD patients’ to-do list.
Coenzyme Q10. This potent antioxidant, which is believed able to slow the progressions of Parkinson’s, is often found to be deficient in the brain and blood of Parkinson’s patients. People who show raised levels of oxidative damage can benefit from the intake of Coenzyme Q10.
Creatine. A shortage of creatine levels in the body has been linked to neurological damage, much like that experienced by PD patients. Supplementation with creatine might slow down progression of the disease.
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). An article published in Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics quoted a study which revealed that NAC can boost binding dopamine transporters and improve the motor and cognitive functions of people with PD.
Probiotics. A fair number of Parkinson’s patients experience constipation and other intestinal issues. Probiotics have the potential to help such patients because of their live microorganisms that can promote a healthy gut.
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological affliction that can gradually and greatly inhibit a person’s quality of life, producing symptoms ranging from tremors, muscle rigidity, and poor balance to sleep disruptions and loss of coordination, perhaps ultimately leading to cognitive decline and dementia. There is no known cure, although there are medications that can reduce the symptoms with even the potential to slow the progress of the disease. Proper supplementation can also help a PD patient in many ways to make the disease more tolerable and allow them to maintain a semblance of an enjoyable life.