Parkinson's Disease

New Hope for Parkinson’s Disease

A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease comes as a devastating blow. This progressive neurological disorder, which affects more than a million people nationwide, is characterized by muscle stiffening and rigidity, tremors of the extremities, and impaired gait and movement. Although there is no known cure for Parkinson’s disease, there are a number of alternative therapies that have been proven to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and slow disease progression.

The Conventional Approach to Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease occurs when neurons in a specific area of the brain die off and stop producing dopamine, a neurotransmitter that influences mood and helps regulate movement. In an attempt to replace dopamine stores, physicians prescribe levodopa (l-dopa), a dopamine precursor, typically along with another drug called carbidopa.

Although l-dopa helps control symptoms, it does nothing to actually slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease. Over time, higher and higher doses of this drug must be administered in order for it to be effective. The resulting side effects can include nausea, constipation, jerking movements, paranoia, and hallucinations.

Alternative Therapies for Parkinson’s Disease

People with Parkinson’s disease often have critically low levels of glutathione, a potent antioxidant, in the dopamine-producing areas of the brain. Restoring levels to normal with intravenous (IV) glutathione often reduces symptoms and retards progression of the disease. Another therapy that provides enduring benefits is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), which delivers massive amounts of healing oxygen to the brain and mobilizes regenerative stem cells.  Click here to read more about alternative therapies for Parkinson’s disease.

Gerald was treated with IV glutathione and hyperbaric oxygen therapy eight years after his diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease. At that time he was exhibiting typical symptoms of the disease: an unsteady shuffle, difficulty speaking clearly, and the characteristic expressionless “Parkinson’s mask” caused by facial rigidity. After his treatment course, his gait normalized, he lost his “Parkinson’s mask,” and his overall well-being dramatically improved—and improvements lasted nearly two years.

Nutritional Supplements for Parkinson’s Disease

While IV glutathione and HBOT are the most powerful therapies for Parkinson’s disease, a number of nutrients also have been shown to be very helpful. Researchers from Duke University conducted a 16-month placebo-controlled study of 80 patients with mild Parkinson’s disease. The study subjects taking 1,200 mg of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) daily had dramatic slowing of functional deterioration.

Another supplement that shows real promise is creatine. Known mostly in body-building circles, creatine helps regenerate stores of ATP, the “fuel” that powers our cells. Research suggests that creatine boosts energy in nerve cells in the brain, offering better protection against damage or destruction. It has also been shown to improve mood in patients with Parkinson’s disease. To learn more about these supplements, click here.

Lifestyle Changes for Parkinson’s Disease

Although exercise may be difficult for patients with Parkinson’s disease, physical activity is important because it can actually slow the progression of the disease. Diet, of course, is also key, and studies suggest that calorie restriction improves outcomes in early-stage Parkinson’s disease.

There is no “cure” for Parkinson’s disease. But people with this condition can certainly improve their quality of life if they are willing to think outside the box. Anyone with Parkinson’s should give these treatments a try. You’ve got nothing to lose and so much to gain.