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What Is the Best Diet for Parkinson's Disease?
Sunday, September 05, 2010
The best diet for Parkinson's disease is similar to the best diet for most people, which includes eating lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, preferring fish and dairy protein to meat, and eating whole grain foods. No specific diet has consistently been recommended for those with Parkinson's disease. That said, people with Parkinson's disease may benefit from some dietary changes. Parkinson's disease is caused by increasing damage to the brains cells that produce dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical messenger that is necessary for making smooth, controlled movements, among other things. The decrease in dopamine results the most familiar symptoms of Parkinson's disease, including tremors and a shuffling gait. The dopamine deficit at the root of Parkinson's disease cannot be treated by diet alone. Eating healthy foods, though, along with beneficial fats from nuts and legumes, will supply adequate nutrition. The risk of developing Parkinson's disease has been linked to insufficient vitamin D intake. Raising vitamin D intake in a diet for Parkinson's disease probably won't have a therapeutic effect, but it may make bones healthier. People with Parkinson's disease seem to be at more risk for osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones become weaker and more prone to breaking. Vitamin D can be obtained in supplements containing 400-1,000 international units (IUs) of this vitamin. Good food sources of Vitamin D include milk and fatty fish like salmon and sardines. People with Parkinson's are often prescribed l-dopa, a prescription drug that can raise dopamine levels in the brain. One strategy in a diet for Parkinson's disease includes eating very little protein at breakfast and lunch, and getting most dietary protein at dinner. This strategy seems to increase the effectiveness of the l-dopa drug. As with other broad dietary changes, this should be done in consultation with a qualified dietitian to ensure the diet provides enough protein as well as overall nutrition. Those with Parkinson's disease can become constipated more easily than the general population. Drinking plenty of water and eating more fiber are good strategies for a diet for Parkinson's disease, especially one aimed at relieving constipation. Fiber intake can be raised by eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, or by taking a fiber supplement.
Medication and Food Interactions
Friday, August 20, 2010
The medication, levodopa, in general, works best when taken on anempty stomach, about an hour before meals or at least 1 hour after meals.It should be taken with 4-5 oz. of water. This allows the medication tobe absorbed in the body more quickly. For some patients, levodopa may cause nausea when taken on an emptystomach. Nausea is an uneasiness of the stomach that often accompaniesthe urge to vomit, but doesn't always lead to vomiting. Therefore, yourdoctor may prescribe a combination of levodopa and carbidopa (calledSinemet) or carbidopa by itself (called Lodosyn). If nausea is acontinual problem, your doctor may be able to prescribe anothermedication to relieve these symptoms. There are also tips listed belowthat can help relieve nausea. Also, ask your doctor if you should change your daily protein intake.In rare cases, a diet high in protein limits the effectiveness oflevodopa. Controlling Nausea There are several ways to control or relieve nausea, including: - Drink clear or ice-cold drinks. Drinks containing sugar may calm the stomach better than other liquids.
- Avoid orange and grapefruit juices because these are too acidic and may worsen nausea.
- Drink beverages slowly.
- Drink liquids between meals instead of during them.
- Eat light, bland foods (such as saltine crackers or plain bread).
- Avoid fried, greasy or sweet foods.
- Eat slowly.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
- Do not mix hot and cold foods.
- Eat foods that are cold or at room temperature to avoid getting nauseated from the smell of hot or warm foods.
- Rest after eating, keeping your head elevated. Activity may worsen nausea and may lead to vomiting.
- Avoid brushing your teeth after eating.
- If you feel nauseated when you wake up in the morning, eat some crackers before getting out of bed or eat a high protein snack before going to bed (lean meat or cheese).
- Try to eat when you feel less nauseated.
If these techniques do not seem to ease your queasy stomach, consult your doctor.
Low Vitamin D Levels May Raise Parkinson’s Disease Risk
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Previous studies have reported that lower blood levels of Vitamin D (measured as serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D) are observed people with Parkinson's Disease, as compared to healthy counterparts. Paul Knekt, from the National Institute for Health and Welfare in Helsinki (Finland), and colleagues studied whether serum vitamin D level are predicative of the risk of Parkinson’s. The team assessed 3,175 men and women, ages 50 to 79 years, who did not have Parkinson’s Disease at the study’s start. The subjects were followed for a 29-year period, during which the incidence of Parkinson’s was tracked. The researchers determined serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level from frozen blood samples stored at the study’s start, and used a mathematical model to estimate the relationship between serum vitamin D concentration and Parkinson disease incidence. Individuals with higher serum vitamin D concentrations showed a reduced risk of Parkinson disease. After adjustment for confounding factors, the relative risk of Parkinson's disease between the highest and lowest quartiles of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels was 0.33. The team concludes that: “The results are consistent with the suggestion that high vitamin D status provides protection against Parkinson disease.”
Paul Knekt; Annamari Kilkkinen; Harri Rissanen; Jukka Marniemi; Katri Saaksjarvi; Markku Heliovaara. “Serum Vitamin D and the Risk of Parkinson Disease.” Arch Neurol, Jul 2010; 67: 808 - 811.
Parkinson's Disease & Good Nutrition
Wednesday, August 04, 2010
While there is no special diet required for Parkinson's disease, eating well is extremely beneficial. A wellbalanced diet makes the body work more efficiently as well as helps medications for Parkinson's work properly. What follows are basic guides to eating well and managing symptoms of Parkinson's. To ensure your body and Parkinson's disease medications function properly, speak to your doctor and/or registered dietitian for an indepth, tailored nutrition plan.Good Nutrition Practices for Managing Parkinson's Disease - Eat highfiber foods. Vegetables, wholegrain foods, nuts, seeds, fava beans, and fruit will manage constipation problems as well as manage weight, and control blood sugar levels.
- Consume broad beans. Broad beans, or fava beans, contain Ldopa, which is used as a drug for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and may help in maximizing the effects of Parkinson's disease medications.
- Eat foods that are low in cholesterol and saturated fats.
- Drink at least eight 8 oz. glasses of water daily.
- Reduce and moderate the intake of sodium.
- Eat foods rich in antioxidants such as berries, prunes, barley, oregano, and kale.
- Daily intake of 10001500 mg of calcium can reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- Ingest easy to swallow foods such as wellcooked vegetables, soup, yogurt, pureed fruit, rice, and casseroles.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these substances can aggravate constipation.
- Avoid high protein foods. Certain meats and other high protein foods may hinder the body's ability to absorb levodopa (a synthetic substance used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease).
- Eat meals at the same time every day.
Parkinson's disease along with certain medication side effects may cause you to feel to worn down to eat at all, let alone eat nutritionally. Follow the suggestions below when you find yourself too tired to eat. - Plan periods of rest before meals to restore your energy.
- Ask family, friends, or caregivers to prepare meals so you can save your strength for eating.
- Assistance with Speech
- Choose foods that are easy to prepare.
- Participate in your local Meals on Wheels Program.
- Snack on healthy foods throughout the day such as fresh fruit, vegetables, crackers, and cereals.
- Store extra meal portions in the freezer and defrost them when you are feeling too tired to prepare a meal.
- Eat larger portions early in the day so you have lasting energy into the evening.
The following suggestions can help relieve nausea. If these techniques do not help you control nausea associated to Parkinson’s disease, consult your doctor. - Drink liquids between meals rather than during meals. Drink slowly.
- Drink icecold sugary or clear liquids. Sugary drinks may relieve an upset stomach.
- Avoid acidic juices such as grapefruit and orange juices as they may worsen nausea.
- Avoid greasy or sweet foods.
- Eat light, bland foods especially when your stomach is uneasy.
- Eat slowly, chewing food completely.
- Do not mix hot food with cold food.
- To avoid getting nauseated from the smell of hot foods, eat foods that are cold or at room temperature.
- Eat small meals frequently throughout the day.
- Avoid heavy activities after eating as such movement may trigger or worsen nausea.
- Rest after eating, keeping your head elevated.
- Try to eat food even when you feel nauseated.
- Keep light, bland snacks next to your bed in case you wake up feeling nauseated.
Treatment of Parkinson's disease includes taking medications that restore the brain chemical dopamine. While taking drugs are necessary to improve Parkinson's symptoms, they also may cause side effects, react to certain foods, or not be absorbed adequately into the body through the stomach. The following suggestions may reduce side effects and help the body absorb the medication so it can work properly. - Take medication 1520 minutes before meals to assure more predictable absorption.
- Divide medication into smaller portions so that the pills are easier to digest.
- Taking medication with food may reduce nausea. But it consider that different food causes the stomach to empty at different rates, which means that the time taken for the medication to absorb into the gut may vary. While you're waiting for your medication to absorb completely, you may experience Parkinson's symptoms.
- Avoid highprotein foods as they interfere with certain levodopa absorption such as found with Sinemet and Madopar.
- If you are going to eat foods with a lot of protein, plan to eat the meal late in the day when a slow response to medication is not as important as it is during other times.
- Take medication with 58 oz. of water to help the body absorb the medication faster.
Common Parkinson's disease medications may cause thirst and dry mouth. To relieve these side effects follow the suggestions below: - Suck on candy or popsicles to help increase saliva and moisten your mouth.
- Drink plenty of water (at least eight 8 oz. glasses). If you have heart problems and must limit your fluids, consult your doctor for the proper amount of water per day.
- Eat something cold and sour such as sherbet or lemon ice before a meal to help prevent dry mouth.
- Sip a drink while you eat to moisten food and help the mouth swallow food.
- Add sauces to your meals to soften food. Gravy, broth, yogurt, or salsa can be added to many recipes and will enhance the flavor of foods.
- Drink smoothies, purees, thickened juices, or blended soups.
- Talk to your doctor about any foodspecific issues related to your medications. For example, meals high in protein may interfere with the absorption of levodopa. So if you use levodopa, you may need to adjust the amount of protein in your diet.
- Cut back on diuretics, especially caffeine and alcohol which can leave your mouth dry.
- Don't use mouthwash that contains alcohol. Instead, reach into your spice rack for alternatives to mouthwash and remedies for bad breath. Fennel, rosemary, mint, and aniseed can be combined with water to create a refreshing mouthwash.
- Resent studies suggest that chewing gum not only increases mouth secretion, but also improves swallowing frequency and latency. Try chewing gum before a meal to stimulate secretion glands.
- Ask your doctor to recommend an artificial saliva product.
Parkinson's disease can cause someone to lose control of their throat and mouth muscles, making chewing and swallowing very difficult. People with Parkinson's disease are at risk of aspiration and pneumonia because of swallowing problems. There are dietary changes that can be made and swallowing techniques that can be practiced to ease swallowing problems. Contact your doctor if you are having problems swallowing. Your doctor will recommend a speech pathologist to examine your swallowing abilities and evaluate your aspiration risk. In the meantime here are some tips to make swallowing easier. - Eat slowly.
- Suck on popsicles, ice chips.
- Avoid foods that stick to the inside of the mouth such as tomato skins, flaky biscuits, bran flakes, and dry mashed potatoes.
- Avoid crumbly, stringy, and dry foods.
- Softened foods such as yogurt, jelly, custard, sauces, and soups are easier to swallow. Try these individually or mix some into dry foods to make eating easier.
- Eat small portions frequently throughout the day. Do not place more than ½ teaspoon of food in your mouth at once. Try eating the portions while sipping a drink to keep the food and your mouth moist.
- Chewing gum will exercise the jaw muscles while also improving swallowing abilities.
- Position your body so chewing and swallowing is more convenient. Sit upright, tilting your head forward slightly, and remain in this position for 15 minutes after eating.
- Try to keep conversation to a minimum.
- Focus on the task at hand. Often awareness of the process of eating and drinking can assist the muscles in clearing the mouth and throat. Concentrate on swallowing frequently.
- Try to eat one texture at a time. Liquid with solids in it is often more difficult to swallow.
- Enjoy your food. Relax and focus your attention on enjoying the aromas and flavors of your food.
- Swallow two or three times per bite or sip.
- When food or liquid gets caught in your throat, clear your throat or cough gently then swallow again before taking another breath. Repeat if necessary.
Any body will benefit from eating a wellbalance, nutritious diet. People living with Parkinson's disease are obviously no exception. But having Parkinson's means paying a little more attention to what it is you are eating to gain as much benefit as possible.
A healthy diet not only gives us more energy but helps our bodies to work more efficiently. This is vital for those living with Parkinson's disease. Making smart diet decisions may even slow onset progression.
Nutritional Treatments for Parkinson's Disease
Saturday, July 24, 2010
First described in 1817 by Dr. James Parkinson, Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a term used to describe specific loss of motor function. Over 50,000 new cases of Parkinson’s are diagnosed each year [Source: NINDS]. This disease is characterized by four specific symptoms: tremors, rigidity, slow movements, and a loss of coordination and balance. Walking often becomes very slow, and patients often experience tremors in the hands, arms or face while at rest. Patients are at a high risk of falling due to the loss of balance and coordination, and muscle stiffness. The disease typically progresses with further deterioration of motor skills though medication may slow these effects. Doctors are now studying nutritional therapies for prevention and treatment of afflicted patients. Nutritional approaches for treating Parkinson’s should not rest solely on vitamins. The diet must include fresh, organic fruits and vegetables and water. Artificial preservatives and ingredients will serve no benefit to brain health. Clinically, patients have more success treating symptoms early in the course of the illness. Later stages of the disease usually require more aggressive dosing and more time for results. Prevention should remain a focus. Eliminating excess toxins from the workplace and home, sound sleep and a healthy diet are integral to a healthy brain and prevention of chronic conditions. Another area of major concern for Parkinson’s disease, along with many other chronic diseases, is toxin damage. Even as a developing fetus, we are exposed to all kinds of toxic insults. These can be in the form of pesticides, heavy metals, cleaning chemicals and pollution. In the past 100 years, toxins from various sources have dramatically increased while the nutritional value of the food we eat has substantially decreased. This is a costly combination that many experts believe is leading to chronic diseases including Parkinson’s, dementia and autism [Source: Etminan].
Health benefits of coffee
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Lately, the list of foods that are generally considered to be healthy seems to be shrinking. In the era of trans-fat avoidance and pre-packaged health food bars, it's comforting to find out that the morning joe we've been slugging back for years might actually have some benefit to our health.
Coffee contains antioxidants. Antioxidants are also found in many fruits and vegetables and they work to neutralize unstable molecules, also known as free radicals. Free radicals damage healthy cells and are thought to contribute to cancer, as well as suppressed immune funtion, and lethargy. Both caffeinated and decaffeinated varieties of coffee contain similar levels of antioxidants, so even those sensitive to caffeine can benefit from coffee consumption in this respect.
Like cancer, Parkinson's Disease is not well understood and its cause it still a mystery to scientists. However, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that those who do not drink coffee were three times more likely to develop the disease. While this prognosis was originally attributed to coffees caffeine content, studies were unable to replicate the results when other sources of caffeine were substituted. While the jury may still be out when it comes to why coffee starves off Parkinson's, the evidence appears convincing enough to warrant its consumption.
Of all of coffees benefits, some of the most substantial evidence centers around diabetes. Coffee, as well as decaf coffee, improves insulin sensitivity and works to prevent high blood sugar. This effect is so pronounced, that a 2004 study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, found that those who drank four cups of coffee daily were 35 percent less likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Since type 2 diabetes is approaching pandemic proportions, this is especially good news for coffee drinkers.
It is a rare event when a scientist will put his reputation on the line by making matter of fact statements. But in 2003, Professor D'Amicis, the head of Italy's Nutrition Information Unit was recorded saying "signifigant data shows us how drinking coffee could provide a real benefit to our health." Professor D'Amicis research focused on coffee in its relation to liver and gall bladder health. D'Amicis' own research, confirmed by numerous follow up studies, showed that coffee consumption provides significant reduction in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cirrhosis related liver disease. In addition, the research showed that men who drank at least four cups of coffee a day had a 30 to 40 percent reduction in gallstone disease.
While it sometimes seems that with every published study, we are forced to once again remove something from our diets and from our cupboards; in the case of coffee, it appears that science has allowed us the freedom to enjoy our brew with a guilt free conscience. So brew a pot of your favorite grind and drink up! Your body will thank you later.
Nutrition and Parkinson's Disease
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
by Sandra Frank, Ed.D., RD, LDN
There is no special diet for people with Parkinson's disease. The nutritional goals include:
* Eat well-balanced meals.
* Consume adequate calories to maintain body weight within a normal range.
* Minimize food and drug interactions.
* If chewing, choking or excessive coughing becomes a problem, provide food consistency easily tolerated.
*Feeding may become difficult and a referral to an occupational therapist may be necessary for adaptive eating utensils.
Eat Well-Balanced Meals
Eat a variety of foods. Include foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, bran, cereals,rice and pasta. Limit intake of salt, sugar and foods high in saturated fats and cholesterol. Drink eight cups of water per day. Balance exercise and food in order to maintain your weight within a healthy range. Ask your doctor if alcohol will interfere with any of your medications.
Medication and Food Interactions
Medication used to treat Parkinson's disease may cause nausea. Let your doctor know if nausea is a problem. There are several ways to control nausea,including:
* Drink clear liquids, such as water, broth, fruit juices without pulp (apple juice, grape juice or cranberry juice),Clear sodas, sports drinks and plain gelatin.
* Avoid juices with pulp and orange and grapefruit juices.
* Eat and drink slowly.
* Beverages should be consumed between meals, not with the meal.
* Choose bland foods such as saltine crackers. Avoid greasy and fried foods.
* Eat smaller meals, more frequently throughout the day.
* Foods should be eaten cold or at room temperature.
*After eating keep your head elevated and avoid brushing your teeth.
Some medications for Parkinson's disease may cause thirst or dry mouth.Include 8 or more cups of liquid each day, unless other medical conditions require you to limit your fluid intake. Add sauces to foods to make them moister. Try sour candy or an ice pop to help increase saliva.
Malnutrition may become a problem for a person diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. This could be related to depression, nausea,difficulty feeding, problems with swallowing, chewing, coughing and/or a loss of interest in food.
Patients who experience swallowing difficulties should consult a physician. The doctor may recommend a swallow study to determine the food consistency best tolerated. If feeding becomes difficult, a referral to an occupational therapist maybe necessary for adaptive eating utensils.
Vitamin B6 levels low in arthritis and Parkinson’s disease
Thursday, June 10, 2010
by Newsletter Editor
Vitamin B6 levels are low in the generalpopulation and in arthritis and Parkinsons disease, according tofindings from three new studies.
In the first large study ofvitamin B6 in the general population, researchers measured blood plasmalevels of vitamin B6 in 7,822 males and females at least one year old.Nearly 25 percent of those who did not take supplements had low levelsof vitamin B6, as did 11 percent of supplement users. Four groups weremore likely than most to have low vitamin B6 levels, including women ofchildbearing ageespecially those taking or who had taken oralcontraceptivesmale smokers, non-Hispanic African-American men and menand women over age 65. Three in four (75 percent) of women who had takenoral contraceptives and did not take vitamin B6 supplements had verylow levels (deficiency) of B6. Investigators noted that the federalgovernment uses the same blood plasma measure to set the recommendeddaily allowance (RDA) for vitamin B6 and that even those who said theyconsumed more than the RDA had low vitamin B6 levels.
In anarthritis study of women over age 55, including 18 women with rheumatoidarthritis (RA) and 33 healthy women, researchers measured blood levelsof vitamin B6, folate, fats and signs of inflammation. Participantsweighed the food they ate for seven days and described their pain andability to perform daily tasks. Compared to the healthy women, womenwith RA had lower levels of vitamin B6, folate and more inflammation.Because the women in both groups consumed the same amounts of nutrients,doctors theorized that those with RA do not absorb vitamin B6 as wellas healthy people and may need to take supplements.
In aParkinsons disease (PD) study, researchers examined the diets of 5,289healthy participants over age 55 and followed up for 10 years. Those whoconsumed at least 231 mcg of vitamin B6 per day were 54 percent lesslikely to develop PD than were those who consumed less than 185 mcg perday.
An Ibuprofen A Day Could Keep Parkinson's Disease Away
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
New research shows people who regularly take ibuprofen may reduce their risk of developing Parkinson's disease, according to a study released that will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 62nd Annual Meeting in Toronto April 10 to April 17, 2010.
The research involved 136,474 people who did not have Parkinson's disease at the beginning of the research. Participants were asked about their use of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen.After six years, 293 participants had developed Parkinson's disease.
The study found regular users of ibuprofen were 40 percent less likely to develop Parkinson's disease than people who didn't take ibuprofen.Also, people who took higher amounts of ibuprofen were less likely to develop Parkinson's disease than people who took smaller amounts of thedrug. The results were the same regardless of age, smoking and caffeine intake.
"Ibuprofen was the only NSAID linked to a lower risk of Parkinson's,"said Xiang Gao, MD, with Harvard School of Public Health in Boston."Other NSAIDs and analgesics, including aspirin and acetaminophen, did not appear to have any effect on lowering a person's risk of developing Parkinson's. More research is needed as to how and why ibuprofen appears to reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease, which affects up to one million people in the United States."
The study was supported by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Source: American Academy of Neurology (AAN)
Six once-forbidden foods that aren’t so bad for us
Tuesday, May 04, 2010
For years, nutrition advice could be summed up something like this: If you like eating or drinking (fill in the blank), its bad for you. Health experts blacklisted sugar, butter, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, and eggs.
The Grim Reaper, it seemed, doubled as tiramisu cake. So we abstained from these forbidden foods or flagellated ourselves while indulging in them. No longer!
Researchers have found that these foods are less sinful than we thought and, in some cases, can actually provide health benefits. Plus, eating real foods in moderation is better for you and the planet than eating processed imitations.
1. Butter is (sometimes) better
We all know that butter isnt good for us. But, according to the scientists at Harvard Health Publications, a little butter isnt so bad and is actually better than stick margarines.
Margarine was thought to be heart-healthy because, unlike butter, it doesnt contain cholesterol or saturated fat. But the common process to convert liquid oil into margarine by adding hydrogen atoms creates harmful trans fats that, like butter, increase bad cholesterol in the blood while decreasing the good kind.
The hydrogenation is essential to create the stick margarine, but many of the soft margarines in tubs are now made with fewer or no trans fats and some health experts recommend those over butter. As for the overall fat and calorie content, its a tieneither will do your waistline any favors, so use them sparingly.
2. A good egg
Nutritional experts had long maligned eggs because they are high in cholesterol, but more recent research revealed that saturated fat -- not cholesterol -- poses the greatest risk. Plus, eggs provide protein, iron, and lutein, a nutrient that helps stem age-related eyesight decline. (Spinach and other leafy greens are also good sources of lutein.)
The American Dietetic Association considers eating eggs in moderation a healthy habit and suggests removing some of the egg yolks to reduce fat and cholesterol. For example, in a recipe that calls for two whole eggs, the association recommends substituting with two egg whites and one whole egg.
3. The case for coffee
Forgoing coffee was like a badge of honor in health nut circles, but not any longer. Recent studies have refuted caffeines link to heart disease, cancer, and high blood pressure. In addition, health experts now tell us that filling up our mugs has health benefits.
According to the American Medical Association, regular coffee drinkers are less likely to have type II diabetes, and their caffeine habit may reduce the risk of developing colon cancer, liver disease, and Parkinsons disease. Researchers have also seen a reduced risk of dementia among people who drink three to five cups of coffee a day.
4. Sweet sin or simply sugar?
Cane sugar earned a bad rap, sparking a move to replace it with everything from honey to concentrated fruit juice. Studies show that the substitutes are no better than the real deal. Whatever the original source, consuming too many of these sweet simple carbohydrates can cause health problems like obesity, type II diabetes, and tooth decay. Yet, cane sugar can be part of a healthful diet in reasonable quantities.
The World Health Organization recommends limiting added sugar to 10 percent of daily calorie intake. And as for the new pariah, high fructose corn syrup, the nutrition gurus say that its probably no better or worse than all the rest. Although food marketers are taking advantage of the publics negative perception of high fructose corn syrup, experts say that consumers shouldnt be fooled by the new marketing techniques.
In terms of your health, its the calories that count.
5. A drink a day
For a long time, science was lockstep with Puritan thinking, shunning all alcohol. But within the last few years, there has been a growing body of evidence that alcohol in small amounts is associated with better health.
Experts believe that having a few drinks a week may reduce your risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. Studies indicate that red wine in particular has positive benefits. Rich in antioxidants, including resveratrol, red wine may help prevent clogged arteries.
Be warned, though, while its tempting to embrace the more-is-better philosophy, three plus drinks a day will up your risk of liver, mouth, breast, and throat cancer as well as memory loss. Experts recommend one beverage a day for women and two for men.
Not exactly a night on the town, but a glass of syrah with dinner. Not bad!
6. Dispelling the chocolate myth
For ages it seems, parents and health professionals said that chocolate makes us pimply, rots our teeth, and offers no health benefits. Au contraire. Chocolate is chock full of minerals and has some of the same antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables that ward off disease, particularly heart disease.
Unlike gummy and caramel candies, chocolate doesnt stick to your teeth causing cavities. And dont try to blame chocolate for blemishes; researchers have found no correlation between the two. In fact, the antioxidants may improve the appearance of your skin by combating inflammation from free radicals.
Look for dark chocolate that contains at least 70 percent cocoa -- the higher the cocoa percentage, the more healthy flavanol antioxidants it contains. (Tea, grapes, blueberries, and cranberries are also high in flavanols.) The label should also say non- or lightly alkalized or non-dutch processed.
An even better way to get your flavanol fix is with natural cocoa powder; when converted into chocolate bars, the cocoa beans lose some of their antioxidants. Plus, chocolate is a mood-booster, increasing serotonin in the brain.
Now that you know the truth about these gustatory pleasures, stay calm. Resist the urge to stock up on all the goodies you have been missing. Remember that nutritionists, researchers, and doctors universally agree that moderation is the key. Drink a few cups of coffee, but dont down the whole pot. Savor a few squares of chocolate, but try not to make eating the whole bar a habit.
And go ahead, order that piece of tiramisu every once in a while. It wont kill you.
Care2 via Sarah Krupp, DivineCaroline
Parkinson's Disease and Protein
Friday, April 02, 2010
Doug has had Parkinson's disease for many years but he has had a lot of problems with what he should and should not be eating. A friend read an article online that said he should not eat a lot of protein because it can interfere with his medication. Another friend read a different article that said that the protein was beneficial because it slowed the rate that the meds were absorbed and made them more efficient. The truth is simple: protein may be a problem for certain people and not a problem for others based on the particular degree and type of their symptoms and their exact medications. Doug, completely confused and at the end of his rope, went to a nutritionist who discussed his options with him. First, they talked about his diagnosis and his symptoms. Next, they talked about the need for protein in the body and the right amount for him personally. Because Doug tries to stay as active as possible, which helps to keep many of his symptoms at bay, he needs a typical amount of protein in his diet. He works with his nutritionist and doctor to come up with a med schedule and diet that works the best for him. But why is protein intake such an important aspect of Parkinson's disease? First, it should be understood that protein is important to the diet of all people, whether they are healthy or not. In Parkinson's disease, increased protein intake can interfere with the absorption of one of the most common meds that is used to treat the disease, levo dopa. It may also prevent the medication from passing from the small intestine to the bloodstream, which may be the reason that some experts suggest limiting or reducing some of the protein intake in the diet. However, for those who are having severe motor system symptoms, the suggestion is made to increase the intake of vegetable-based protein. Another suggestion is to eat protein after the meds have been taken, called the protein redistribution diet. However, the protein redistribution is not appropriate for those who have dyskinesia, which is the impairment of voluntary movement. The slower absorption rate of the medication is actually a benefit in this instance. (Source: Carlson 2008) Because Doug has only mild symptoms, the nutritionist and doctor suggests that he use the protein redistribution diet, including a supplement, called Profect, from Protica, which he takes in the morning after his medications. Profect is a liquid protein supplement that gives him 25 grams of protein per serving plus a number of vitamins and minerals that help to keep him at his best and most active. Doug is also very interested in new research, including studies that have shown how the normal appearance and function of certain proteins can affect the health and well being of the brain and the body. One of these proteins may be beneficial in treating not only the symptoms of Parkinson's disease but may eventually be used to cure the disease itself. Until then, though, Doug and the others with the disease may have to be satisfied with lessening the symptoms that are most troublesome. Protein's Role in Parkinson's Disease One of the most common words that you will see when discussing Parkinson's is protein. First, many of the brains of those with Parkinson's disease show Lewy bodies, which are abnormal circular structures that have a dense protein core. The disease itself may be caused by a genetic mutation caused by the production of a protein called o-synuclein, which is found in the presynaptic terminal, which in turn creates a secondary protein that can have toxic effects to the cell. Other proteins can also become folded or otherwise mutated. In addition, a protein called "protein kinase-C" has been linked to PD by researchers. Protein kinase-C, a naturally occurring protein in the human brain, is apparently killing dopamine-producing cells. Research is hoping to find a way to neutralize these cells so that dopamine-producing cells are allowed to function and to continue producing the dopamine that is needed in the brain. Parkinson's disease strikes about 50,000 people each year. As the dopamine levels in the brain start dropping, there may be increasing incidences of preliminary PD symptoms; if the dopamine continues to drop, the disease will become more evident. Researchers are working on the theory that nearly everybody has some level of PD based on reduced or limited dopamine levels. You cannot bring dopamine levels back up to one hundred percent; however, if you can bring them back up to 40-50 percent, the functioning level will be relatively normal (Source: Science Daily 2009) There is no cure for Parkinson's disease, but there are treatments for the many symptoms, which include trembling in the hands and arms, legs, jaw and face, rigidity or stiffness in the limbs and trunk and slowed movements, impaired balance and coordination. It may cause an increasing difficulty with walking, talking or completing even simple tasks. The disease typically affects people over the age of fifty, however, the National Institute of Health predicts that the prevalence of the disease will continually increase as more and more people hit this age group and beyond. Parkinson's disease may or may not have a genetic factor; however, factors for developing PD include prolonged exposure to metals, pesticides and additional environmental chemicals. Protein's Role in Overall Health Protein plays a vital role in the entire body, including the health and appearance of the skin, hair and nails. Protein also builds connective tissue, contractive tissue (muscles) and contributes to the bone matrix. It helps to maintain fluid balance and regulates the pH balance of the blood. Protein also contributes to immunity (antibodies are protein based) and is used to form hormones and enzymes which are necessary to regulate sleep, digestion and ovulation in women (Source: Nelson, 2009). Protein comes from two sources, animal- and plant-based, and is needed in every diet. How much protein is needed depends on a number of different factors, including age, health and activity level. Animal protein is a complete protein source, meaning that it contains all essential amino acids that the body cannot make on its own. Plant-based proteins, however, are not complete because they are lacking one or more of the amino acids. The only exception is soy protein, which is complete. Those who are bigger or more active will need more protein than others might, however, the amount that even the biggest bodybuilder might need is surprisingly similar to what the average person might need. How much protein you personally need should be determined by your doctor or nutritionist. Protein supplementation is a great way to make sure that you are getting the right amount of protein in your diet. Profect has more protein per serving than other types of supplements and only has one hundred calories. Other protein supplements can have double or triple the calorie count but with less protein. References Neil R. Carlson. Foundations of Physiological Psychology Seventh Edition Pearson Education Publishing. Boston, MA 2008 Lisa Nelson. Protein and Heart Health: How Much Do You Need? Health Central highbloodpressureconnection.com November 30, 2009 Science News Discovery of Novel Protein Offers Hope for Possible Parkinson's Disease Cure. Science Daily. November 4, 2009
Fava Beans and Parkinson’s Disease
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Sandra has been growing her own fava beans. They give her wonderfulrelief from the symptoms of Parkinsons. We asked Sandra a series ofquestions about fave beans. Here are her answers:
1. How did you come to try fava beans as therapy for Parkinsons disease?
Istarted searching books for possible natural treatments for Parkinsonsdisease in January 2009. Came across a book Green Pharmacy by JamesA. Duke PhD. He spoke of favas for Parkinsons disease & thatstarted the ball rollinglots of research and a search for seeds toplant. I am an organic gardener and am fascinated with herbs andnatural medicine so this was a new challenge for me.
2. Why are fava beans supposed to give relief from PD symptoms?
Thewhole aerial plant contains l-dopa. Especially, the immature greenpods. Since it is a natural form of l-dopa, the body recognizes &utilizes it very efficiently. Part of this is because it is a wholefood, not a synthetic, man made form just God given.
3. How have fava beans helped you and your friend?
Myfriend takes a small amount of sinemet and a couple of beans atmedication times. The favas are supplying most of her l-dopa. Thisseems to be giving her longer on times. Taking less sinemet seems tomean less withdrawal time from sinemet. She tries to take all of hersinemet before lunch time and then supplement in the afternoon withbean products dries bean chips/bean cookies/tincture, etc.
Personally,I am not on any pharmaceuticals for PD, and just taking a few drops oftincture when I feel PD symptoms coming on, is enough to let me getthrough the day symptom free.
4. Can everyone use fava beans?
No.Some people have a genetic condition called favism. People with favismhave an deficiency that makes it very dangerous to usefavasconsumption can be fatal. There is a simple blood test called aG6PD which detects if you have this condition and should not use favabeans. The test cost me $65. and was well worth it.
Coffee may have health benefits and may not pose health risks for many people
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
By Carolyn Butler
Of all the relationships in my life, by farthe most on-again, off-again has been with coffee: From that initial,tentative dalliance in college to a serious commitment during my firstreal reporting job to breaking up altogether when I got pregnant, onlyto fail miserably at quitting my daily latte the second time I wasexpecting. More recently the relationship has turned into full-blownobsession and, ironically, I often fall asleep at night dreaming of thedelicious, satisfying cup of joe that awaits, come morning.
WhileI love the mere ritual of drinking coffee, I have definitely come torely on the caffeine to make me feel more alert, energetic and oftenjust plain better, every single day. And yet because I don't likefeeling dependent on anything, I occasionally wonder whether I shouldgive it up for good, especially when I have a particularly jitteryafternoon. Can something that tastes and feels this good not be bad foryou?
Rest assured: Not only has current research shown thatmoderate coffee consumption isn't likely to hurt you, it may actuallyhave significant health benefits. "Coffee is generally associated witha less health-conscious lifestyle -- people who don't sleep much, drinkcoffee, smoke, drink alcohol," explains Rob van Dam, an assistantprofessor in the departments of nutrition and epidemiology at theHarvard School of Public Health. He points out that early studiesfailed to account for such issues and thus found a link betweendrinking coffee and such conditions as heart disease and cancer, a linkthat has contributed to java's lingering bad rep. "But as more studieshave been conducted -- larger and better studies that controlled forhealthy lifestyle issues -- the totality of efforts suggests thatcoffee is a good beverage choice."
Van Dam's research, forexample, found no evidence that coffee consumption had any effect onmortality from any cause, including cardiovascular disease or cancer,even for people who drink up to six cups a day. He and his colleagueshave also found that drinking coffee is associated with a reduced riskof liver disease and Type 2 diabetes. The latter is backed up by astudy published this month in the Archives of Internal Medicine; itsuggested that three to four cups of joe a day might reduce chances ofdeveloping Type 2 diabetes by roughly 25 percent.
And that'snot all. Also this month, Harvard researchers unveiled new datasuggesting that drinking coffee might lower men's chances of developingaggressive prostate cancer by up to 60 percent, with the highestbenefits for those who down the most java.
Other studies haveshown that coffee consumption reduces the risk of a laundry list ofailments: stroke, Alzheimer's, dementia, Parkinson's, endometrialcancer, colon cancer and gallstones, for starters.
"Theevidence is pretty clear," says Daniel Burnett, a preventive medicineand family physician in Bethesda, who notes that coffee intake can alsoimprove mental performance and mood, decrease depressive symptoms andincrease endurance and aerobic performance.
While caffeine isthe star ingredient for sleep-deprived students, parents and workerbees, the fact is that in many of these studies, including the researchon diabetes and prostate cancer, positive effects are similar for thosewho drink decaf as well.
"Most of the benefits associated withcoffee are not attributed to caffeine," says van Dam, who explains thatthe beverage also contains antioxidants and quite a few vitamins andminerals. "We tend to focus on coffee as just a vehicle for caffeine, .. . but now we look in more detail, without bias, and see it also hashundreds of compounds that might have beneficial effects, similar tothings we see in some vegetables, which makes all the [study results]seem more plausible."
Which is not to say the bean has nodownside. Doctors cite risks such as miscarriage, fertility problems,anxiety and sleep issues, and warn that pregnant women and those withblood pressure problems, especially, should cut back or avoid it.
Othersare more concerned about the potential for addiction. "My personalopinion on caffeine is that it's the most widely used psychoactive drugin world," says Daniel Evatt, a research fellow in the department ofpsychiatry at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He notesthat many people become tolerant to immediate perks such as alertnessand increased energy, and then go through withdrawal, with headaches,low energy and other symptoms, when they try to quit.
Inaddition, Evatt suggests that some longtime coffee drinkers mayactually be immune to benefits and not know it: The tiredness they feelin the morning is really withdrawal-related, he says, and that singleor double shot just helps them get back to normal functioning, withoutproviding a real boost. "All these things tell us that this is asubstance that people can become dependent on, in the way they becomedependent on other drugs."
In particular, researchers worryabout children and teenagers who gulp down coffee and such high-caloriecousins as frappuccinos, soda and especially the new wave of energydrinks. "They already have enough ups and downs with emotions as it is;when you add caffeine into the mix, it's a problem -- their bodiesaren't as equipped to handle it," says Evatt, who expresses concernthat energy drinks are regulated as supplements instead of soft drinks.As a result, there is no limit on how much caffeine they can contain,nor are they required to list stimulant content on their labels, eventhough it can be 300 milligrams or more in an eight-ounce can, comparedwith 80 to 100 mg or so in a cup of brewed coffee.
Given someof the downsides of caffeine, even coffee enthusiasts in the researchfield suggest that people monitor their consumption and recognize howthey react to the stimulant, looking for troublesome signs includingjitteriness, tremors and difficulty sleeping. (This is particularlyimportant because studies have shown that different people metabolizecaffeine in vastly different ways; that's why a Coke or cappuccino canleave one person bouncing off the walls while another can nap straightaway.)
But those of us who tolerate our daily brew well cancontinue to happily caffeinate, within reason. "In terms of healthrisks, up to around six cups a day or so seems to be fine," says vanDam, noting that "cup" generally means eight to 10 ounces of blackcoffee -- not a venti mochaccino or the like, with added caffeine,sugar and calories. "I think coffee is on par with tea and water, andcan be a healthy choice for most people."
Vitamin C
Monday, January 11, 2010
(a.k.a, ascorbic acid; ascorbic is Latin for without scurvy)
VitaminC is a strong antioxidant that promotes the growth and maintenance ofbones, teeth, skin and red blood cells. It aids in the repair oftissues and the formation of collagen, plus it helps the body resiststress and infection. It increases the absorption of iron and calcium.Vitamin C is believed to prevent cardiovascular disease, lowercholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, fight allergies and asthma,aid symptoms of diabetes, prevent gallstones, prevent cancer, improvemale fertility, prevent osteoporosis, and slow down the progress of Parkinsons disease.
Natural Food Sources
Avocado,black currants, blueberries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage,collard greens, grapefruit, green pepper, guava, kale, lemon, lime,mango, melon, orange, papaya, pineapple, potato, rose hip, spinach,strawberry, tomato, watercress.
Recommended Daily Allowance
Men: 90 mg
Women: 75 mg
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