Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder in which the nerve cells in the brain are damaged or die. This reduces dopamine production, ultimately leading to movement problems.

People living with Parkinson’s experience a range of movement-related symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, balance issues, and slowed movement. While Parkinson’s seems very much related to your brain, you may be surprised by the gut connection. Keep reading to learn more: 

The Gut-Brain Relationship

There’s a reason healthcare professionals involved in the treatment of Parkinson disease urge their patients to prioritize a healthy diet. Current research suggests that what happens in the gut influences the brain through communication of the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. It’s referred to as the gut-brain axis. Upon closer inspection, researchers also found that the gut bacteria in people with Parkinson’s differ from those in people without it. 

As part of the condition, alpha-synuclein proteins don’t fold properly and form clumps in the brain, known as Lewy bodies. Some experts believe that these clumps, which are present in other neurodegenerative diseases, may result in the loss of dopaminergic neurons, the brain cells that synthesize and release dopamine. They have also found alpha-synuclein pathology along the GI tract of people with Parkinson’s. 

Gastrointestinal Dysfunctions

Out of all non-movement symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease, like cognitive changes, mental health issues, and sleep disorders, constipation and speech and swallowing problems are some of the most common and troublesome. They affect up to 70% and 75% of people living with the disease, respectively, and often start before other telltale movement symptoms. Gastroparesis, the delayed emptying of the stomach, is also a common gastrointestinal symptom. 

Because alpha-synuclein pathology can be found along the GI tract in Parkinson’s, researchers have begun sequencing the microbiomes of people living with PD. They found that some beneficial bacteria are reduced in people with the disease. However, they also found increased volumes of other bacteria, which may be due to constipation. 

Improving Gut Health Through a Mediterranean-Style Diet

While being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease can feel as though it’s the luck of the draw, that’s not entirely true. It’s generally the interaction between genetic predisposition, aging, and environmental factors. Some research also suggests protective factors. Current data supports a protective role for a Mediterranean-style diet in preventing the onset of PD. 

Given those findings, there is value in eating a diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and olive oil and limiting sugar-rich foods and red meat. While such a diet is encouraged to reduce the risk of PD, it’s not too late to incorporate this diet even once you receive a diagnosis. A Mediterranean-style diet may also slow the progression of the disease. To boost your gut health: 

1. Eat a minimum of 14 grams of fibre for every 1,000 calories of food and beverages you consume. 
2. Ensure half of your plate is vegetables and fruit. 
3. Prioritize prebiotic fibres such as bananas, beans, grapes, and artichokes. 

 

Your gut and brain may be two different parts of your body, but they are very much connected. If you’ve been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, discuss this link with your healthcare provider to receive the resources you need to make informed diet choices.