As the world population ages, Prevalence of Parkinson’s disease The number of patients continues to rise, with an estimated 25 million people expected to be living with a neurological disease by 2050.
This intractable, progressive disorder affects motor skills and other nervous system functions and typically causes stiffness, tremors, balance problems, and slowed movement, along with mood changes, cognitive decline, and sleep disturbances.
Parkinson’s disease usually occurs, but After 60 years oldIn some cases, the onset occurs early.
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Although age is the biggest factor and family history has also been shown to increase risk, research shows that some lifestyle behaviors can help prevent or delay the onset of the disease.
“While it is not possible to prevent Parkinson’s disease today, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including staying physically active, eating well, and getting enough sleep, can help protect your overall brain health and may reduce your risk of various diseases. neurological disorder” Dr. Prat Akun Sabancı, professor of neurosurgery at Istanbul University, told FOX News Digital.
Below, experts have shared some of the most effective prevention methods.
regular exercise According to Dr. Mary Ann Picone, medical director of the MS Center at Holy Name Medical Center in New Jersey, it is strongly associated with a lower risk of Parkinson’s disease.
“Aerobic exercise may be neuroprotective and improve motor function,” she told Fox News Digital. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise reduces risk by 50%.
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Picone recommends spending a significant amount of time each week (at least 30 minutes each day) doing moderate-to-vigorous activity, such as walking or cycling.
“Aerobic exercise increases your heart rate and has benefits.” brain neurons “It’s about maintaining old connections and forming new ones,” she said.
Experts say weight training and resistance exercises can be beneficial, as well as activities that combine balance, agility and coordination, such as tai chi and dance.
“Studies have shown that pumping blood helps your brain tissue build protective mechanisms, leading to better results on both cognitive and muscle control tests. live long” she said.
Picone recommends eating a diet rich in antioxidants and plant-based protein sources, especially beans, nuts, and tofu, as well as foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. It’s best to avoid processed foods, she advised.
a Mediterranean diet or MIND style dietIt’s rich in fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and whole grains, which are associated with a lower risk of Parkinson’s disease.
“Foods containing antioxidants are recommended, such as red fruits such as purple, red and blue grapes, blueberries and strawberries, green leafy vegetables such as broccoli, kale and spinach, sweet potatoes, acorns and butternut squash,” Picone said.
Doctors have found that people who drink coffee and tea have a lower risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
exposure to certain things environmental toxinsLike pesticides and heavy metals, they can damage neurons and increase your risk of Parkinson’s disease, says Dr. George Michalopoulos, founder and president of Chicago’s Neurologic Wellness Institute.
“While it is impossible to avoid all toxins, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure,” he told FOX News Digital. “Choose organic produce whenever possible, wear protective equipment when working with chemicals, and drink filtered water to avoid contaminants.”
Michalopoulos pointed out that during deep sleep, the brain removes waste products and repairs itself.
“Chronic sleep deprivation and symptoms such as: sleep apnea syndrome “It may increase your risk of neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease. Keep a consistent sleep schedule, avoid screens before bed, and create a calming bedtime routine,” he said.
Dr. Vibhash Sharma, a neurologist and medical director of the Neuromodulated Movement Disorders Clinic at UT Southwestern in Dallas, Texas, reiterated the importance of quality sleep in preventing Parkinson’s disease.
“Poor sleep quality and chronic sleep deprivation are associated with increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, so getting enough quality sleep is important to support brain repair and remove abnormal proteins associated with Parkinson’s disease,” he told FOX News Digital.
Stress is a part of life, but chronic level Picone warns that it can be taxing on the brain.
“It’s associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are thought to be involved in Parkinson’s disease,” she says. “Finding ways to manage stress can help protect your brain and improve your overall health. Give it a try.” Practicing Mindfulness This could be meditation, deep breathing, or a daily walk in nature. ”
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Michalopoulos said keeping the brain active and connected to others helps build “cognitive reserve,” which may protect against neurodegeneration.
“Activities that challenge the brain, like doing puzzles, reading books, and learning new skills, are great for keeping your mind sharp,” he told FOX News Digital.
Mr. Sabanshi reiterated lifelong learning. social connections Purposeful activity supports brain resilience.
Smoking and heavy drinking are associated with an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease, Michalopoulos warned.
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“Smoking and moderation” alcohol intake “It helps a lot in protecting the brain,” he said.
However, experts agreed that none of these behavioral changes guarantee complete protection from Parkinson’s disease.
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“But taken together, they form a practical, low-risk approach to supporting brain lifespan,” Sabanciu said.
“People with movement changes, loss of sense of smell, REM sleep behavior disorder, or persistent constipation should seek early medical attention.”
