What causes Parkinson’s Disease? While we don’t currently have the answer, some interesting findings have been made recently that are starting to show that it may very well be a man made disease. Basically, Parkinson’s is a loss of motor control in the body due to a loss of dopamine producing cells in the brain. What causes these cells to die?
In men, a link has recently been established between the consumption of dairy products and the development of Parkinson’s. It has been known that it is not caused by calcium, vitamin D, or fat, but something in milk and other dairy products is interacting with the body in a detrimental way.
Even more interesting is the new determination that many pesticides used in agriculture correlate strongly with the onset of Parkinson’s. Farmers who use paraquat, a weedkiller, on their fields are two to three times more likely to have Parkinson’s in later life than normal. Animals exposed to paraquat in laboratory experiments have a build-up of alpha-synclein in their brains, and this protein is known to kill the same brain cells associated with Parkinson’s. Other pesticides have similar effects; dieldrin is another pesticide that is showing the same correlations.
Another link is being established between systemic inflammation and Parkinson’s. This can occur in a person who receives multiple concussions, for instance.
What this tells me is that Parkinson’s Disease is preventable. As an individual, I can make choices that limit or eliminate my exposure to pesticides. I can eat organic foods and limit diary intake. These choices are good for my health regardless, but doubly beneficial in light of the new findings. As a society, we can change the way we protect crops, utilizing more natural means.
Parkinson’s Disease is an enormous challenge for both the people who contract it and the families and friends who help them during their decline. Admitting that we likely caused it is tough, but knowing we can therefore eliminate it is liberating!
Resources:
- Studies back Parkinson’s and pesticides link
- Dairy intake tied to Parkinson’s disease in men
- NINDS Parkinson’s Disease Information Page
Other news
- Passed out does not mean sleeping: Men Who Drink Face Higher Risk of Sleep Disorders
- Towards a paperless doctor’s office: Electronic Medical Records Proved Their Worth in Katrina’s Wake
- Just say ‘nose job’: Cosmetic surgery more popular than ever
Healthy thoughts,
Jeff
