How to Successfully Manage Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and Other Brain & Cognitive Disorders Without Medication
- GS Network
- Jul 28, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Jul 23
[ PART 1 ]
Managing Parkinson's and Other Cognitive Disorders with Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
Understanding Cognitive Disorders
Managing brain and cognitive disorders like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's or Dementia, can feel scary for patients and their families. These conditions require ongoing care and adaptation. While your doctor's pharmaceutical medication may help you with managing the symptoms, there is no evidence of any long-term reversal of the condition nor improvement in health.
Current Medical Solutions
Current medical treatments focus on managing the symptoms only based on a fixed ideology that the cause is unknown, although multiple scientific studies have identified likely causes of Parkinson's and other cognitive disorders. All of these studies are out-rightly ignored by the medical establishment. The prescribed treatment is a standard course of drugs that offers no evidence of reversal of the disease. Conditions usually deteriorate over time, requiring stronger doses of medication with the risk of increased side effects that often lead to other health complications that require more drug-based treatment.
Alternative Solutions
On the brighter side, there are many "non-pharmaceutical" strategies like natural health supplements, dietary changes, detox programs and herbal remedies that can significantly enhance quality of life, and even increase the chances of recovery.
This guide offers practical and holistic approaches to manage your cognitive disorders using alternative solutions.
[Health disclaimer: This article is not intended to bypass or ignore standard medical advice. Always discuss your treatment options with a qualified medical or healthcare practitioner .]
Understanding Parkinson's and Alzheimer's
Understanding these progressive brain disorders is essential for managing their symptoms.
What is Parkinson's?
Parkinson's Disease is a progressive neurological condition that primarily affects movement. It occurs due to the degeneration of nerve cells in the brain, specifically those that produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter crucial for coordinating movement. This loss of dopamine leads to a range of motor symptoms.
Parkinson's causes tremors, stiffness, and slowness in activities and balance, impacting daily tasks. Over 12 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson's, and it usually appears between ages 50 and 60.
What is Alzheimer's?
On the other hand, Alzheimer's primarily affects memory and cognitive abilities, leading to confusion in familiar settings. Approximately 55 million people in the world have Alzheimer’s, with this risk increasing significantly after age 65. Being aware of how these diseases manifest helps tailor effective management strategies.
Strategies below apply for most neurological and cognitive disorders:
In this article, we will discuss the dietary and lifestyle changes required to effectively manage Parkinson's. The same strategy applies for Alzheimer's, Dementia and other cognitive issues.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
FOOD - Proper Nutrition is VITAL for Your Brain Health
What you eat directly influences your brain health. A focus on whole, nutrient-rich foods and essential health supplements can lead to better cognitive function and overall well-being. It can also prevent most health issues. Understanding what food types supports your healing is crucial in managing life with Parkinson's.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
Key Foods & Supplements for Parkinson's
Fruits and Vegetables: Aim for a colorful variety. For instance, berries, bananas, watermelon contain antioxidants that protect brain cells. Tomatoes, leafy greens like spinach and kale offer essential vitamins and minerals. Consume mineral-rich unrefined Sea Salt eg. Celtic Sea Salt, and Himalayan salt only. Avoid table salt.
Coffee and Dark Chocolate: Coffee may help reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's and alleviate symptoms too. Must be organic and freshly ground. Dark chocolate contains phenylethylamine which helps increase dopamine release in the brain. Go for 80% cacao with low sugar content. Do NOT consume any food with artificial sweeteners ( eg. products that say "Zero sugar" or "Diet" Foods )
Health Supplements: Helps to mitigate the underlying mechanisms of the disease, such as oxidative stress and neuro-inflammation, and addresses specific nutritional deficiencies that may be caused by a side effect of prescribed medication. Select a range of natural health supplements and vitamins from reputable sources. ( See Part 2 )
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fatty fish, such as salmon and halibut, provide omega-3s linked to improved cognition. A study found that people who consume omega-3s regularly had a 20% reduced risk of developing dementia. AVOID red meats and shellfish because they contain too much iron which is bad for anyone with cognitive disorders.
Healthy Fats: Extra-virgin olive oil and coconut oil are great options. Grass-fed butter is also a good source of healthy cholesterol to boost brain function. Avoid ALL seed and nut oils.
Foods to AVOID if you have Parkinson's:
Red meats
Shell fish
Processed foods
Dairy products ( except grass fed butter )
Iron supplements
Why You NEED Health Supplements ? |
 |
The food that you eat today does NOT contain the same level of nutrition that it used to contain 50 - 100 years ago. This is due to environmental pollution and the overuse of artificial and toxic pesticides and fertilizers, resulting in soils that contain very low levels of nutrients. Also, ultra-processing of foods completely destroys what nutrition is left. |
Therefore it is of primary importance that EVERYONE adds nutritional health supplements to their daily diets. Most health problems today are caused by nutritional imbalances. Taking nutritional supplements and vitamins is a MUST in today's world. Learn more about Essential health supplements for Parkinson's in Part 2 |
Continue reading important information below
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
The Importance of Hydration
Dehydration can worsen cognitive decline. Research shows that even mild dehydration can impair attention and long-term memory. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily, and enjoy hydrating foods like cucumbers, melons and oranges. But due to nutritional deficiencies, especially electrolyte imbalances, the water that you drink is unable to properly hydrate your body.
Note: Electrolytes and mineral imbalances can prevent proper absorption of water into your cells. To enhance absorption of water, add a tiny pinch of Sea salt (eg. Celtic Sea Salt ) to your drinking water to enhance water absorption into your cells. ( Do NOT use regular table salt if you have Parkinson's ! ) |
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
Physical Activity: Staying Mobile and Engaged
Regular exercise is key to managing symptoms associated with both Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Exercise not only boosts physical health but also enhances mental wellness.
Recommended Activities
Aerobic Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity weekly. Options like brisk walking, swimming, or indoor cycling can elevate mood and enhance cognitive functions.
Strength Training: Engage in resistance exercises at least two times each week. This can include body weight exercises like squats and push-ups or using resistance bands.
Balance and Flexibility Exercises: For Parkinson's patients, yoga and Tai Chi can cut the risk of falls, which is crucial given their motor symptoms.
Incorporating these activities into daily life can lead to noticeable improvements in both motor skills and overall cognitive health.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
Cognitive Stimulation: Keeping the Mind Active
Keeping the mind engaged is vital. Activities that challenge the brain can help slow cognitive decline.
Cognitive Exercises to Try
Puzzles and Games: Spend time on Crossword Puzzles, Sudoku, Mahjong, or engaging Mobile Apps that challenge memory and reasoning. These can sharpen cognitive skills and provide entertainment.
Playing mahjong to sharpen cognitive skills and entertainment. Learning New Skills: Consider picking up a new hobby, like learning to use a computer, play an instrument or a new language. Studies show that such activities stimulate brain plasticity.
Man with Parkinson's learning a new skill of how to use a computer. Social Interaction: Regularly connecting with friends and loved ones is beneficial. Group activities, like book clubs or game nights, can offer opportunities for engagement and support.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
Mindfulness and Stress Management
Stress can worsen symptoms of both Parkinson's and Alzheimer’s. Practicing mindfulness can greatly enhance emotional health.
Mindfulness Techniques
Meditation: Simply sitting quietly and focusing on the breath for a few minutes daily can help reduce anxiety and foster calmness.
Rei-ki: Practicing this ancient Japanese natural healing technique can help to greatly alleviate stress and anxiety, and activate the body's innate healing capabilities.
Deep Breathing Exercises: Techniques like the 4-7-8 breathing method can alleviate anxiety and improve focus: deeply inhaling through the nose for a count of 4 seconds, then holding your breath for 7 seconds, and exhaling slowly for 8 seconds. It's designed to help reduce stress and anxiety by calming the nervous system
Nature Therapy: Spending time outdoors has calming effects. Activities like gardening have been found to lower cortisol levels and improve mood.
Integrating mindfulness into daily routines can create a solid base for navigating the challenges associated with cognitive disorders.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
Community Support: Utilizing Resources and Support Groups
Connecting with individuals facing similar challenges can provide essential emotional support.
Finding Community Resources
Support Groups: Engage in local or online support groups where experiences and tips are shared. This connection can create a sense of community.
Education Programs: Many organizations offer workshops tailored to patients and caregivers for a deeper understanding of these diseases.
Volunteer Opportunities: Consider community service or volunteering, as these activities can give a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Building relationships in a supportive network can ease feelings of isolation and enhance coping strategies.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
Taking Action for a Healthier Future
Managing Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and other cognitive issues without medication is possible through a combination of :
nutritional foods
health supplements
physical activity
cognitive exercises
mindfulness and
community support.
Though the journey may be challenging, actively incorporating these strategies can lead to a more fulfilling life. Each step, no matter how small, contributes to significant improvements over time. Remember, taking control of one’s health is not just about the journey; it is about thriving in spite of challenges.
Health Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. The products mentioned on this website are not a replacement for conventional medical treatment and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or disorder. The statements in this website have not been evaluated by the FDA. As most supplements react in different ways with different people, this website is NOT responsible for any adverse reactions as a result of the consumption of the products stated herein. By purchasing products from or via this website the consumer agrees to have read and understood this Disclaimer and any incidence as a result of the direct or indirect purchase and use of the products stated herein is the sole responsibility of the consumer. Please always consult with a competent health care practitioner before taking any food supplements, vitamins, or herbs.
This is by far the the best and most comprehensive article I've seen on how to manage Parkinson's and other cognitive issues by using health supplements. Simple, clear and concise without all the usual technical language. Solutions offered are also easy to follow. Offers so much hope for a condition that mainstream doctors keep saying that it's incurable. Thank you so much for this amazing article. 😍🙏