Growing observational research suggests that long-term dietary patterns may influence Parkinson’s risk, age at onset and possibly severity of symptoms.Mediterranean-style eating, in particular, has been associated with lower risk and possibly milder disease.That said, there isn’t a single food that causes or prevents disease, according to Dr. Michael S. Valdez, a California-based physician with advanced training in neurology."When we talk about Parkinson’s and similar conditions, it helps to zoom out," he told Fox News Digital. "In many cases, it’s the overall pattern over years that matters."The brain is especially sensitive to chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and vascular health, which is how well blood flows to brain tissue, according to the doctor.BRAIN AND MEMORY ARE BOOSTED BY EATING ONE PARTICULAR DIET, STUDY FINDS"Another key point is that neurodegenerative diseases develop slowly," Valdez pointed out. "Changes in movement or cognition often appear years after underlying changes in the brain have already started.""That means lifestyle factors, including diet, are part of a much larger timeline that also includes genetics, environmental exposures, sleep and physical activity."Dr. Rebecca Gilbert, a seasoned neurologist and the chief mission officer at the American Parkinson Disease Association in New York, confirmed that the best foods for brain health are those that make up the MIND or Mediterranean diets. "These diets emphasize whole grains, vegetables (especially green leafy vegetables), nuts, legumes and berries," Gilbert told Fox News Digital. "Fish is the preferred animal protein, and olive oil is the preferred fat."Studies have suggested that among those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, adherence to the MIND or Mediterranean diets prior to diagnosis was associated with later onset of the disease, according to the doctor. PARKINSON’S CASES COULD DOUBLE GLOBALLY BY 2050, STUDY REVEALS"These diets are good for the brain because they are rich in antioxidants and other anti-inflammatory nutrients that keep neurons healthy," she said. "The diets also support clean blood vessels to the brain, which provide adequate blood flow containing the nutrients and oxygen that neurons need.""Blueberries, strawberries, apples, tea and red wine in moderation have been associated with lower PD risk in large cohorts," Amanda Hare, an expert nurse practitioner in the field of neurology and movement disorders, who is also a medical liaison at Rune Labs, told Fox News Digital. The South Carolina-based expert cited a Harvard study that found men with the highest flavonoid intake had about 40% lower disease risk."Anthocyanins — the pigments in red/purple berries — are the subclass… [TheTopNews] Read More.
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