If you’ve been looking endlessly for the best natural supplements for Parkinson’s disease, we feel you, and we’ve been in the same shoes. Whether it’s a loved one or yourself, Parkinson’s is a terrible disease that seems unbeatable, but some supplements can help. We’ll go over them.
Parkinson’s disease is caused by the deterioration of motor nerves over time. These cells that get damaged are also the ones that play a factor in generating dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays major roles in the brain, especially mood regulation.
That is why many patients experience depression, and studies even found that early-life depression may be a precursor to Parkinson’s.
Patients are often given drug therapy, which is not really a cure and comes with its own slew of problematic side effects. Here are five alternative supplements that could possibly reverse the damage that Parkinson’s brings about.
Supplements For Parkinson’s
D-Phenylalanine
D-Phenylalanine is a fundamental corrosive that is also a precursor to tyrosine (discussed below), both of those were found in multiple studies (1,2,3) to increase dopamine and general brain function.
If you don’t have enough dopamine, your Parkinson’s symptoms are generally harsher. Addressing the deficiency could alleviate some symptoms.
Natural Sources
- Beef
- Poultry
- Pork
- Fish
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Eggs
L-tyrosine
L-tyrosine is the precursor to L-dopa, which is the direct precursor to dopamine. L-dopa is a conventional prescription therapy, and in theory, L-tyrosine could serve as the perfect natural alternative, with virtually no risk.
I’ve taken this before, and this amino acid is great for raising body temperature, reversing sluggish depression, and even for strengthening your skin so that it can develop a tan, instead of burning.
These sound like lofty claims, but it was successful in accomplishing all three for me. Though I don’t suffer from Parkinson’s, this is certainly a possible alternative treatment.
One caution: do not take L-tyrosine with L-dopa, as it could affect the way it’s carried to the brain. Consult with your doctor first.
Natural Sources
- Cheese
- Soybeans
- Beef
- Lamb
- Pork
- Fish
- Chicken
- Nuts
Coenzyme Q10
This supplement is great in slowing the deterioration of cells in the body. It serves as protection against all sorts of free radicals which plague us, and it helps us retain Vitamin E better.
CoQ10 is also used in many important bodily functions, it is the means by which the body turns food into adenosine triphosphate, or in short, energy.
And because it’s important all throughout the body, CoQ10 is highly recommended for all sorts of conditions; from Angina and high blood pressure to Alzheimer’s, and various cancers.
Natural Sources
- Organ Meats (Heart, Liver, Kidney)
- Fatty Fish
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Nuts
- Seeds
5-HTP
5-HTP is the precursor of serotonin (the happy brain chemical). And taking it can help with the depression that often accompanies Parkinson’s.
Before you take this one, though, make sure you also are increasing dopamine at the same time. Otherwise, an imbalance could be caused, and the symptoms of Parkinson’s could be further exacerbated.
As usual, it is best to consult a doctor.
Natural Sources
- Turkey
- Chicken
- Milk
- Potatoes
- Pumpkin
- Sunflower Seeds
- Turnip
- Collard Greens
- Seaweed
Vitamins C and E
These great antioxidants are needed by all for great health and are especially needed by those suffering from Parkinson’s disease.
It’s been found in various studies that if your diet is high in vitamin C and E you’re are at lower risk for a variety of diseases; depression, heart disease, and Parkinson’s are all part of that list.
Natural Sources
- Citrus Fruits
- Tomatoes
- Potatoes
- Broccoli
- Strawberries
- Guavas
- Thyme
- Kale
- Kiwis
- Papayas
Conclusion
As you can see, there are some natural supplements for Parkinson’s disease. They can help alleviate the symptoms as well as preemptively prevent it. It is also highly recommended for patients of all conditions to workout daily.
And please, always advise with your doctor before taking any supplement, natural or not.
If you’re looking for more natural ways to keep your body and mind healthy, check out our article about spirulina benefits.