Exploring Freedom from Parkinson's Disease Naturally.
I always get so bored of articles that spend the first 5 minutes telling you what the disease is and loads of other facts. I doubt anyone reading this, needs to know about PD. If you haven't experienced it personally or had a loved one affected by it, you probably don't even care to know more about it. I assume you're here because, like me, you have had a loved one impacted by the disease. Perhaps you have experienced symptoms or even received a diagnosis yourself. So let's dive right into how to keep free from this. Let's focus on the river out, as the Medical Establishment has not approved any drugs that can prevent the progression of this debilitating condition. While pharma companies focus on patented chemical treatments, I will focus on a vast array of studies highlighting the potential of natural compounds in freedom over PD. My father died of it, so it's an issue that I'd like to see humans have freedom over. This is not medical advice! This is my research and what I do to safeguard my own health. But I want to add in here that I'm also very into the idea that no disease is genetic. That's another article, but this one is still allow for that small window.
A recent study in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry emphasises the failure of pharmaceuticals in preventing PD progression and suggests exercise as a potential disease-modifying therapy. The study supports a growing body of evidence that exercise can prevent, slow, and mitigate PD's effects. This acknowledgment of exercise as a vital component in PD management aligns with 19 studies I found on GreenMedInfo's PD database, underscoring the importance of physical activity in treatment plans alongside conventional medical treatments. This was one of the resources I used, but I've got a lot of information for freedom over PD and I'm finally putting it together in a general article. Yes there is more information that I can fit in here but this will really cover some general ideas that could help. Right! Shall we move on with getting to peak state health? First, supplements to bring in, then what to avoid, cut out or limit. Next, there will be all the other lifestyle and bodywork ideas. I've published no rubbish in this article, that’s obvious. What you are going to read is all unique info. No one needs to be told to go for a walk a few times a week ever again. I will say here, don't associate with being a Parkinson’s Disease patient or sufferer, just focus on your improvements and keep adjusting until you have freedom.
My Supplement Recommendations for Freedom over PD
Methylene Blue: Emerging research suggests that Methylene Blue, traditionally used as a dye and medication, may have neuroprotective effects beneficial for PD patients. It appears to improve mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress, potentially slowing the progression of neurodegeneration in PD.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Adequate intake of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, particularly DHA, during pregnancy and postpartum, may reduce the risk of developing PD. Lower DHA content in mothers' milk and reduced seafood consumption have been linked to higher PD rates.
Coenzyme Q10: Known for its antioxidant properties, Coenzyme Q10 may slow the functional decline in PD patients. Its neuroprotective effects make it a promising candidate for combination therapies in neurodegenerative diseases.
Mucuna Pruriens (Velvet Beans): This legume is rich in L-DOPA, the precursor to dopamine, which is deficient in PD patients. Studies show that Mucuna pruriens effectively treats PD symptoms with fewer side effects than conventional L-DOPA preparations.
Curcumin: This compound found in turmeric protects dopaminergic neurons from toxicity and oxidative stress. Curcumin's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties suggest its potential as a neuroprotective agent in PD.
Study on B Vitamins
I recently came across a fascinating study on B vitamins effect on PD. Researchers at Nagoya University, led by Hiroshi Nishiwaki, have identified gut microbes linked to decreased levels of riboflavin (vitamin B2) and biotin (vitamin B7). They suggest that supplementing could benefit PD patients suffering from gut dysbiosis. Previous studies have shown that changes in the microbiome occur in PD patients long before other symptoms emerge. Nishiwaki's team analysed faecal samples from 94 PD patients and 73 healthy controls in Japan, comparing their results with data from China, Taiwan, Germany, and the US. Despite variations in bacterial groups, they all influenced the body's B vitamin synthesis pathways. They discovered that gut bacteria changes were associated with decreased riboflavin and biotin in PD patients.
The lack of these B vitamins was linked to a reduction in short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and polyamines, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy mucus layer in the intestines. Deficiencies in these molecules could thin the intestinal mucus layer, increasing its permeability, a condition observed in PD patients. The weakened protective layer might expose the intestinal nervous system to more toxins, such as cleaning chemicals, pesticides, and herbicides, more on this later. These toxins can cause the overproduction of α-synuclein fibrils – molecules that accumulate in dopamine-producing cells in the brain's substantia nigra, increasing nervous system inflammation and leading to severe motor and dementia symptoms in Parkinson's.
A 2003 study found that high doses of riboflavin helped improve motor functions in patients who also eliminated red meat from their diets. This suggests that high doses of vitamin B might prevent some damage. The study highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and reducing environmental toxins. Given the complex nature of PD, not all patients will have the same causes, so individual assessments are necessary. Nishiwaki explains that we could perform gut microbiota analysis or faecal metabolite analysis to identify individuals with specific deficiencies. Administering oral riboflavin and biotin supplements to those with decreased levels could potentially be an effective treatment.
Then there's Creatine
It is believed that Creatine can help maintain mitochondrial function and energy production in neurons, protecting them from the energy deficits and oxidative stress that contribute to neuronal death in PD. Studies have indicated that Creatine might enhance dopamine function by supporting the health of dopamine-producing neurons. This could potentially alleviate some motor symptoms of PD and improve overall brain function. There is evidence from animal studies and early clinical trials that Creatine might slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including PD. By improving cellular energy metabolism and reducing oxidative damage, creatine could help preserve neuronal integrity over time.
Several clinical trials have investigated the effects of Creatine on PD. For instance, a large-scale study known as the NINDS NET-PD LS-1 trial evaluated the long-term impact of creatine on the progression of PD. Although the results were mixed, with some studies showing modest benefits and others showing no significant impact, the potential for Creatine to support brain health remains a topic of interest. Creatine is generally considered safe for most people when taken at recommended dosages. Consult with your healthcare provider if you are on any other medications. Typical dosages used in studies range from 3 - 5 grams per day.
Then there's NADH
I find NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) to be particularly intriguing. This coenzyme, vital for cellular energy production, has shown promise in alleviating Parkinson's symptoms, according to several studies. NADH plays a crucial role in the brain's energy metabolism. It is involved in the production of ATP, the energy currency of cells, and supports the function of mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells. For those with Parkinson's disease, where mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress are prevalent, NADH supplementation could be especially beneficial. One study that caught my attention was conducted by Birkmayer et al. in the early 1990s. They found that NADH supplementation led to significant improvements in motor function for Parkinson's patients. Participants experienced enhanced mobility and reduced rigidity, highlighting the potential of NADH as a therapeutic option.
Furthermore, a more recent study by Demarin et al. in 2004 reinforced these findings. They reported that patients who received NADH showed improvements in both motor and non-motor symptoms, such as mood and cognitive function. This suggests that NADH not only helps with movement but also supports overall brain health. I believe NADH's ability to reduce oxidative stress is another reason for its effectiveness. Oxidative stress damages dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, a hallmark of Parkinson's disease. By mitigating this damage, NADH could help preserve these critical neurons, potentially slowing disease progression. Incorporating NADH into a comprehensive treatment plan for Parkinson's disease is worth considering. Its role in energy production, neuroprotection, and symptom management offers a multifaceted approach to addressing this complex condition. The existing studies provide a solid foundation for its potential benefits.
Other Helpful Supplements
- Vitamin C (750 milligrams, 4x daily): Acts as an antioxidant to prevent free radical damage and supports a robust immune system. Spread it across the day for fu
- Vitamin E: An essential antioxidant that promotes brain health. Must be all Vit E, full spectrum, if using ours take 2 daily.
- Vitamin D, Magnesium, Calcium: To maintain bone health, ensure your diet includes sufficient Magnesium, Calcium and Vitamin D. Individuals over 50 should aim for 1,500 milligrams of food calcium daily along with at least 1000iu of D3, personally I'd suggest 10,000iu 4 days a week.
- Probiotics: Support the digestive system balance “good” and “bad” bacteria. Gut health you'll find is key to this.
- Essential Oils: Essential oils can effectively alleviate some symptoms of PD, such as depression, sleep disturbances, skin inflammation, and digestive issues. Helichrysum and frankincense oils have been shown to reduce brain inflammation, while vetiver oil can help decrease tremors. Apply 2 drops of frankincense, helichrysum, and vetiver oils to the temples and neck twice daily, or place 2 drops of frankincense on the roof of the mouth.
Supportive Foods to Eat
Choosing your diet is a big part of this, personally given what I have read an experienced I'd be leaning more towards Keto. But one thing is for 100% sure, eat whole foods, in the avoid section at the very top are processed foods. What we don't eat is far more important in my opinion. Seriously I will fast the whole day if the only option is garbage processed food. So many times on the road the only thing I could find was a packet of Blueberries and 3 packs end up being my lunch. For the record, I also eat white rice. But processed carbs I avoid, bread unless you make it yourself is pretty awful. In short, try to become the expert on food and ask, is this a healing food? If it's not, don't eat it. Fasting allows healing anyway, a huge amount of the human race eat too much food. Then there are these specifics... Seafoods: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, these may enhance brain function in individuals with PD. These fats are found in foods such as salmon, tuna (both wild caught only) halibut, and oysters. Solanaceae Vegetables: Consuming these, especially peppers, two to four times per week is recommended for enhanced neuroprotection. Capsaicin: the active ingredient in hot chilli peppers that causes a burning sensation, has also shown potential in mitigating Parkinson’s symptoms. Celtic Sea Salt: This natural multi mineral will help with many factors within the human body for freedom over PD.
Fluids
Water: Make sure its filtered, pure, at least chlorine and fluoride free, structure it with a Sacred Geometry Carafe.
Coffee: According to a study published in Neurology, caffeine consumption is associated with a reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease. Researchers in the 2018 study recommended consuming at least four cups per day to help alleviate symptoms. Additionally, they noted: "Decaffeinated coffee provided no protection, indicating that caffeine, rather than other substances in coffee or tea, is the key pharmacologic agent."
Foods to Avoid
Processed Foods: Toxins and additives in processed foods can exacerbate Parkinson’s symptoms. Eliminating these foods early in life can also reduce the risk of other age-related illnesses.
Potential Food Allergens: Food allergies can aggravate Parkinson’s symptoms by negatively affecting gut health and increasing inflammation. Consider limiting common allergens such as gluten, dairy, shellfish, and peanuts to see if symptoms improve.
Artificial Sweeteners & Added Sugar: These substances are considered toxic and can worsen Parkinson’s symptoms. It's best to avoid them entirely.
Alcohol: Alcohol can disrupt neurological function and contribute to mood changes and other complications. Limiting or avoiding alcohol is advisable.
Dairy: Recent studies have also linked dairy consumption to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease later in life. A notable 1996 study found that milk consumption was associated with a higher risk of Parkinson’s, particularly in men. Additionally, a 2002 Harvard School of Public Health study indicated that dopaminergic neurotoxins, including pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in dairy products, might elevate this risk. The featured study also referenced several other studies, noting: "Numerous studies have reported a decrease in peroxidase, glutathion-peroxidase activities, and glutathione in the substantia nigra (SN) of PD patients post-mortem; suggesting metabolic failure in antioxidant mechanisms and chemical processes can lead to lipid peroxidation and Parkinsonian characteristics."
Avoiding Toxins
Exposure to external toxins like pesticides may increase the risk of Parkinson's disease by up to 80%. Toxins such as solvents and metals are also linked to the disease, while genetic causes account for only a few percent of cases. Mitochondrial dysfunction or oxidative stress, resulting from pesticide exposure, may cause some of the damage seen in Parkinson's disease. As highlighted in Environmental Health Perspectives, pesticides like paraquat, which causes oxidative stress, and rotenone, which inhibits mitochondrial complex I, both lead to the loss of nigral dopaminergic neurons and behavioural changes similar to those in human Parkinson's disease.
Individuals with a mutation in the synuclein gene, which increases Parkinson’s risk, may be particularly vulnerable to pesticide damage. Alpha-synuclein, a protein found in the body, can misfold and clump together, damaging nerve cells and forming Lewy bodies. These areas of dead brain cells cause Parkinson’s symptoms such as movement and speech problems. Research in the journal Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology found that dopamine-producing neuron's with the genetic risk factor for Parkinson's were affected by low doses of pesticides, mimicking the effects of gene mutations known to cause the disease. Scott Ryan from the University of Guelph stated that individuals predisposed to Parkinson’s are more affected by low-level agrochemical exposure, explaining why people living near agricultural areas have a higher risk.
At Ancient Purity you can find multiple detox protocols, the Methylene Blue in the recommended supplements is a powerful detoxifier, I'd also consider Fulvic Acid on a regular basis. But focusing on addressing the above toxic load, I'd specifically recommend using Zeolite, Folate, Bentonite Clay and Psyllium Husk. Don't use the Zeolite at the same days ad Bentonite Clay and Psyllium Husk. Both are different. Make your way through a few different detox programs. I would add in C60 Charcoal last thing at night and then see if you can make it to the sauna once a week at least.
Bodywork
According to Washington University School of Medicine, exercise is at the forefront of Parkinson’s disease treatment. Research suggests that “midlife exercise significantly reduces the later risk of both dementia and other mild cognitive impairments.” Exercise offers anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and neuroprotective effects that enhance cognitive health. Animal studies have shown that exercise provides protective benefits such as reductions in dopaminergic neurotoxins, increased brain-derived neurotrophic factors, and enhanced neuroplasticity. I've summarised the benefits of exercise below.
Improved Motor Function: Regular physical activity can help maintain and improve motor function, balance, and coordination, which are often impaired in PD patients. This can lead to a better quality of life and increased independence.
Cognitive & Mood Enhancement: Exercise has been linked to improved cognitive function. Activities like aerobic exercises, strength training, and Tai chi (I'll cover more about this below) have been shown to enhance brain function and slow cognitive deterioration. Physical activity can also reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, which are prevalent among PD patients, although not for you as you're on the road out. The release of endorphins during exercise acts as a natural antidepressant.
Neuroprotective Effects: Exercise may help protect the brain from further neurodegeneration. It promotes the release of neurotrophic factors, which support the growth and survival of neurons. This is particularly important in Parkinson’s disease, where dopaminergic neurons are progressively lost.
Reduction of Non-Motor Symptoms: Exercise can also help manage non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s, such as sleep disorders, constipation, and fatigue. Regular physical activity helps regulate sleep patterns, improve gastrointestinal function, and boost overall energy levels.
Stretch to Prevent Stiff Muscles
Incorporating gentle exercise and stretching into your daily routine can make everyday tasks easier and help reduce stiffness, soreness, and pain. Here’s a simple four-step sequence to keep your muscles loose and prevent spasms or pain:
- Wall Stretch: Stand about eight inches away from a wall and reach your arms upward. Place your hands on the wall for balance, stretching out your arms and back.
- March in Place: Turn around and use the wall for support. Gently march in place, lifting your knees as high as possible.
- Chair Stretch: Sit in a chair and reach your arms behind it, pulling your shoulders back as far as possible. Lift your head toward the ceiling to enhance the stretch.
- Foot Stomping: While sitting, stomp your feet up and down while pumping your arms back and forth at your sides.
Practice Mind-Body Exercises Like Tai Chi
Tai Chi, a Chinese martial art characterised by slow, rhythmic movements, is highly beneficial for Parkinson’s patients. Research from the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at West China Hospital indicates that Tai Chi helps maintain strength and balance, reduces the risk of falls, and alleviates anxiety and depression.
Traditionally recommended for seniors to stay active and fit, Tai Chi is now recognised for its potential to manage Parkinson’s symptoms by improving range of motion, balance, and focus. Practicing Tai Chi for an hour, twice a week, is recommended to enhance stability, coordination, and ease with tasks like walking.
Additional Benefits of Tai Chi for Parkinson’s:
- Improved Motor Function: The slow, deliberate movements of Tai Chi can help improve overall motor function.
- Enhanced Mental Clarity: The focus required in Tai Chi can enhance cognitive function and mental clarity.
- Social Interaction: Group classes offer social interaction, which can boost mood and reduce feelings of isolation.
Smoking
Prepare to be surprised because what follows is not what you may anticipate. To start, it may shock you to learn that I smoke three cigarettes per week. However, I only smoke pure, natural tobacco that I order online. You can easily find it. Anyway epidemiological studies on Parkinson’s disease (PD) consistently reveal that cigarette smokers have lower rates of PD compared to non-smokers. This finding, observed over several decades, often surprises people as it appears counter-intuitive. Well my uncle had a long out of print book all on the health benefits of tobacco. No surprise that disappeared.
So back to the study results on smokers and PD, does smoking protect against Parkinson’s disease? In addition to numerous studies indicating lower PD rates among cigarette smokers than in the general population, research also shows that the inverse relationship between smoking and PD is dose-dependent. This means that the more a person smokes, the lower their chances of developing PD. Another study examined identical twins where one twin had PD, and the other did not. The twin without PD tended to smoke more than the twin with PD. Since identical twins share the same DNA and often similar environments, many variables usually associated with differing PD risks were controlled, except for smoking. This study is thus cited as evidence that smoking might be protective against PD. Tobacco smoke contains thousands of chemicals, with nicotine being one of the primary components. Nicotine stimulates the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAchR), mimicking the brain chemical acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is known to affect the brain circuits involved in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Studies in cell cultures and animals have suggested that nicotine and its receptors play a role in dopamine signalling and can protect against cell damage in dopamine neurons. An active research area, supported by the APDA, explores the cellular mechanisms through which nicotine may protect dopaminergic neurons.
However, all physicians and researchers agree that increasing smoking rates among the general population is not a desirable strategy to prevent PD. This is because epidemiological studies have consistently shown that cigarette smoking is a risk factor for numerous deadly diseases. Therefore I can't recommend smoking and won't but just mention as there was some PD in my family that I choose to smoke a few cigarettes a week. But remember this is natural tobacco, it's very different, so don't think of cigarettes as the chemical ridden stuff.
Ear Stimulation Improves Parkinson's Symptoms
In 2016, a case study was published using caloric vestibular stimulation (CVS), a form of neuromodulation, in a 70-year-old man with Parkinson's disease. He self-administered the treatment at home "via a portable, solid-state device that discharged time-varying thermal waveforms via earpieces housed in a headset."
After using the device twice a day for 20-minute sessions over a period of three months, the man experienced a 50% reduction in both motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease, with the relief persisting for at least five months after the treatment was stopped. At the time, the researchers concluded, "Caloric vestibular stimulation may offer a novel, home-based method of relieving everyday symptoms of PD [Parkinson's disease], and merits further evaluative study." That further research — a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised study — was recently published in the journal Parkinsonism & Related Disorders.
It involved 33 people with Parkinson's disease who received either CVS or a placebo treatment. Participants administered CVS at home twice daily for eight weeks. Those who received the active CVS treatment had greater reductions in motor and non-motor symptoms, including improved movement and mobility, than those in the placebo group. The treatment also helped the participants carry out everyday activities and led to "improvements in decision-making, memory, mood, and sleep." The improvements in symptoms were still apparent five weeks after the end of active treatment, but they started to recede by the 24-week follow-up.
"At six months' follow-up, most of the gains had returned to baseline status although there was some evidence of residual effect," the researchers noted. "These clinical improvements were obtained without significant safety concerns; no serious adverse events likely to be device-related were reported, and subjects described their experience with the device as largely positive."
So ear stimulation can be said to be safe and effective, it's part of the protocol that could be integrated with everything else I've covered in the article. Again this one can be used at home, you don't need clinic visits. The exact reason how the device is producing these benefits appears to be that it's helping to synchronise neural activity.
Utilising Acupuncture
As someone deeply interested in alternative therapies, I believe acupuncture to be a very effective and trusted ancient practice for managing Parkinson's disease symptoms. Recent research by the Neurodegenerative Disease Research Group at King’s College in London has shown that acupuncture can significantly alleviate Parkinson’s symptoms. It works by generating a neural response in brain areas particularly affected by inflammation, such as the putamen and the thalamus.
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to reduce pain, anxiety, insomnia, and stiffness. I trust its potential in not only providing relief but also in offering additional benefits for Parkinson's patients. It's suggested that acupuncture can help slow cell death and reduce oxidative stress, which damages dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. This means that acupuncture may support brain health and improve the quality of life for those with Parkinson's disease. Integrating acupuncture into Parkinson's disease treatment plans could be a valuable approach, combining ancient wisdom with modern research to offer holistic care.
Ok so there is a lot to digest there, my attitude has always been go for every angle, you can wonder about what fixed it when you're running along the beach in the sun and climbing coconut trees. For some people it could be single factors in here and there could be other life triggers. You'll find a lot of what you need at Ancient Purity. I could have gone on and on here about other factors and the healing modalities and using mind over matter. I mean it that there's enough here to get your freedom back other things like self discovery to make psychical changes is something you can do yourself. But If you'd like, you can book a consultation with me.
Please remember that this is not medical advice, but rather information for your consideration. We are currently living in a time where information is easily accessible. I have spent countless hours researching so that you don't have to spend your evenings scouring the internet or digging through old books, or constantly questioning every health expert you encounter. But don’t worry, as this is something I truly enjoy. So, remember to prioritise your health, find joy in your daily life, and don't forget to laugh frequently. Someone once told me "you'll be amazed at the humour when you reach enlightenment" I think it's true. Be Well!