In a recent study, Japanese researchers analyzed fecal samples from 94 Parkinson’s patients and 73 healthy control volunteers. Those results were then compared to data gathered in China, Germany, Taiwan, and the USA.
The team discovered that the gut bacteria that help produce and regulate B vitamins are notably different in people with Parkinson's (although the precise bacteria can vary by region).
As a result, people with Parkinson’s tend to have significantly lower levels of two vital B vitamins:
riboflavin (B2) biotin (B7) B vitamins are essential for brain health and nervous system function—but there’s more...
A lack of B vitamins is also linked to a drop in the short-chain fatty acids and polyamines that help create a healthy mucus layer in the intestines.
A compromised intestinal barrier makes you more vulnerable to common toxins, including pesticides, herbicides, and cleaning chemicals.
So, restoring your B vitamin levels may help prevent damage caused by the disease—and could even restore some motor function.
B vitamins are safe, affordable, and widely available. I suggest you talk with your doctor about which supplements and dosages are right for you.
However, in the meantime, you can naturally boost your B’s through your diet.
Riboflavin (B2) rich foods include…
Eggs Lean meats Dark green vegetables Mushrooms Fish Whole grains Boost your Biotin (B7) levels by eating more…
Nuts (especially almonds) Sweet potatoes Avocados Eggs Legumes Dairy But don't stop there. Support better gut health by taking a high-quality prebiotic and probiotic and by eating more fermented foods, such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut.
Be sure to get plenty of fiber from vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains. And stay well hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.
Health and Happiness,
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
P.S. Discover how gut bugs shape your brain health.
Ed. Note: Please send your feedback: feedback@livingwelldaily.com - and click here to like us on Facebook or click here to follow us on Twitter.
SOURCE:
Nishiwaki, H., Ueyama, J., Ito, M., Hamaguchi, T., Takimoto, K., Maeda, T., Kashihara, K., Tsuboi, Y., Mori, H., Kurokawa, K., Katsuno, M., Hirayama, M., & Ohno, K. (2024). Meta-analysis of shotgun sequencing of gut microbiota in Parkinson’s disease. Npj Parkinson's Disease, 10(1), 1-11. |
|
|
