Parkinson’s Disease: Facts and Prevention

OPTUM HCC

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by resting tremor, muscle stiffness, shuffling walking and hunched posture. The neurodegenerative disease causes nerve cells to die, disrupting brain function, which leads to movement disorders. The destruction of dopaminergic nerves in the brain prevents people from moving their bodies precisely as they want. Dopamine is essential for motivation, learning and reward processing, and may fluctuate based on a lifestyle, diet and stress.

Symptoms of Parkinson's disease appear after about 60-80% of the dopaminergic neurons are lost. It is the second most common degenerative brain disease after Alzheimer's and known to occur in about 1 in 1,000 people over 60. A balanced diet and lifestyle may help maintain dopamine function. Recommended foods include:

PARKINSON'S, page 28 fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, avocado, dark chocolate, bananas, apples, strawberries, spinach, tomatoes, seaweed and bone broth.

Additionally, movement, social interaction, and goal-setting activities may naturally stimulate dopamine production.

Acupuncture and traditional herbal medicine can also help by:

• Reducing stress

• Improving digestion and nutrient absorption

• Promoting circulation and oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain

• Restoring nervous system function by improving focus, emotional stability, and mental clarity By integrating acupuncture, herbal therapy, movement, and relaxation techniques, people can support neurotransmitter balance naturally, leading to greater emotional resilience, focus and well-being.

While there is little known about Parkinson’s prevention, maintaining a healthy weight, adhering to a balanced diet and consuming protein at intervals from taking medication can benefit a healthy aging. Parkinson’s disease cannot be completely cured but responds well to drugs. If the patient, guardian and doctor work together to provide appropriate treatment, the quality of life can be maintained at a high level.

—Dr. Yeung H. Kwon L.Ac, OMD, Ph.D.