For many years, research has been leading towards the reality that Parkinson’s may start in the gut first and travel to the brain.
Recently, I was diagnosed with a dairy and soy allergy which causes inflammation in the esophagus and probably the gut. As I was sharing food ideas with my students, the topic of gut health and Parkinson’s Disease came up. I found people with PD often have no idea the gut is involved. They may have heard gluten-free diets can be helpful to manager PD, but most do not know why this is suggested. Laurie Mischley, author of “Natural Therapies For Parkinson’s Disease” and whom I served with on a medical advisory board and respect highly, says that dairy and other foods like gluten may contribute to inflammation in the gut, which may precipitate or worsen PD.
I recommend reading the article “Does Parkinson’s Begin in the Gut?” from Scientific American. It is very helpful and an easy read. It explains why we need to take care of our gut. It’s hard to give up foods you love, but what if it helped your PD symptoms or slowed the progression? Read this article and consider some changes. It’s not that hard for a better life.