Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative condition affecting millions nowadays. It results in significant physical discomfort and impairs one’s quality of life greatly. While there is no outright cure, there are several ways you can minimize your risks and potentially prevent this disease. Here, Evoke Neuroscience will discuss some simple to-implement prevention strategies that could go a long way.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Before you go in-depth into ‘prevention’, let’s first understand the risk factors associated with Parkinson’s disease. First of all, older age is a predominant risk factor as Parkinson’s disease generally starts in middle or late life, and the risk increases with age.
Having someone related to you with Parkinson’s disease increases the chance of you getting one. However, the risks are still small unless you have several family members in your family with the disease. Also, men are more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than women. Lastly, ongoing exposure to herbicides and pesticides may slightly increase your risk of Parkinson’s disease.
Easy Prevention Steps Against Parkinson’s Disease
- Regular Exercise – getting yourself into regular physical activity has been scientifically linked to a lower risk of developing Parkinson’s. Exercise helps maintain good coordination, balance and keeps the body flexible. Exercise can be as simple as walking, swimming, or doing yoga. Your exercises do not have to be strenuous to benefit you. The goal is to keep your body active and moving.
- Balanced Diet – A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and lean proteins can not only improve your overall health but also boost your immune system. Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and green leafy vegetables, which are known to protect brain cells. Avoid eating too much iron and manganese, as some theories suggest that these minerals may increase your risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
Regular Doctor’s Check-Ups
Having regular doctor visits allows early detection of any health disorder, including Parkinson’s. For that, you must get some health screenings as recommended by your doctor. So if there is a family history of the disease, then you must share this needed information with your doctor.
Avoid Exposure to Toxins
Limit exposure to pesticides and herbicides. If you must use these products, always wear protective clothing and utilize all available safety precautions. For one, you must avoid smoking to lessen your risks of getting the condition. That’s because people who smoke cigarettes for more than a decade risk getting Parkinson’s disease.
The Role of Caffeine In Preventing Parkinson’s Disease
There is exciting, emerging evidence that people who consume caffeine — which is found in coffee, tea, and cola — may have a reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease. However, it’s also important to note that excessive caffeine consumption can lead to other health problems. So moderation is key!
Get Yourself Healthy To Prevent Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a complex condition with many factors at play. While you can’t control every factor, like age or familial history, there’s a lot you can do in terms of lifestyle changes. Implementing these simple steps into your everyday routine might contribute greatly to lowering your risk.
Ultimately, for Evoke Neuroscience, leading a healthy lifestyle by incorporating regular exercise, a balanced diet, and limiting exposure to toxins is not only beneficial for reducing the risk of Parkinson’s disease but also contributes positively to your overall well-being.
