FREE SHIPPING! On online orders of $74+. Use code: SHIP74 
Access Denied
IMPORTANT! If you’re a store owner, please make sure you have Customer accounts enabled in your Store Admin, as you have customer based locks set up with EasyLockdown app. Enable Customer Accounts
New Study Links Gut Health to Parkinson's Disease and Highlights the Potential of B Vitamin Supplementation
Paula Gallagher on
Researchers have long suspected that the connection between our gut and brain significantly influences the development of Parkinson's disease. A recent study led by medical researcher Hiroshi Nishiwaki from Nagoya University has identified specific gut microbes likely involved in this process. The study points to decreased levels of riboflavin (vitamin B2) and biotin (vitamin B7) as key factors, suggesting that B vitamin supplementation could benefit a subset of Parkinson's patients with gut dysbiosis.
The Gut-Brain Connection in Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects nearly 10 million people worldwide. It primarily targets dopamine-producing cells in the brain, leading to symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement). Non-motor symptoms, including constipation and sleep problems, can manifest up to 20 years before the onset of more severe symptoms like dementia and loss of muscle control.
Past research has shown that individuals with Parkinson's disease experience changes in their gut microbiome long before other signs appear. The new study by Nishiwaki and colleagues reinforces this connection by analyzing fecal samples from 94 Parkinson's patients and 73 healthy controls in Japan, and comparing the results with data from China, Taiwan, Germany, and the United States.
sale
INTEGRATIVE THERAPEUTICS
Riboflavin
No reviews
$12.99
$12.99
Riboflavin functions in two important enzymes (FMN and FAD) involved in energyproduction and is necessary in antioxidant enzyme defense mechanisms.Integrative medicine is a collaboration of safe and effective therapies fromconventional and complementary medicine. Integrative practitioners look beyondsymptoms to identify and address the root cause and work hand in hand withpatients to develop a plan of care. This collaborative, wellness-drivenapproach often includes clinical nutrition – both through diet, andnutritional supplementation – and that’s where Integrative Therapeuticssupplements come in. Integrative Therapeutics is one of the top-tiermanufacturers of supplements in use by integrative practitioners today –including naturopathic, chiropractic, nutrition, acupuncture, as well as avariety of general health and specialty practitioners.
Features:
An essential vitamin for the production of energy
Perfect for vegetarians.
This product is vegetarian and gluten free
sale
PATHWAY
Biotin
No reviews
$15.59
$23.99
Strengthens Brittle Nails Biotin is an important coenzyme that is involved in a number of processes in the body. It is a member of the B-vitamin family and is an essential nutrient in human nutrition. Biotin is involved in the biosynthesis of fatty acids, energy production and metabolism. Biotin has been widely used for nutritional support of healthy skin, hair and nails. Suggested Use: 1 tablet daily with a meal
Key Findings: Gut Bacteria, B Vitamins, and Parkinson's Disease
Despite variations in the specific bacteria involved across different countries, the study found a common thread: all the bacteria influenced pathways that synthesize B vitamins in the body. Researchers discovered that changes in gut bacteria were linked to decreased levels of riboflavin and biotin in Parkinson's patients.
Key Findings:
- Gut Dysbiosis: Parkinson's patients exhibited significant differences in gut microbiota compared to healthy controls.
- Vitamin Deficiency: The altered gut bacteria were associated with reduced levels of riboflavin and biotin.
- Intestinal Health: A deficiency in these vitamins was linked to decreased short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and polyamines, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy mucus layer in the intestines.
Nishiwaki explains that deficiencies in polyamines and SCFAs could lead to a thinner intestinal mucus layer, increasing intestinal permeability—a condition observed in Parkinson's disease. This weakened protective layer may expose the intestinal nervous system to more toxins, including cleaning chemicals, pesticides, and herbicides, which are increasingly present in our environment.
The Role of Toxins and α-Synuclein
The study suggests that exposure to these toxins could lead to the overproduction of α-synuclein fibrils. These molecules accumulate in dopamine-producing cells in the brain's substantia nigra region, causing increased nervous system inflammation and eventually leading to the motor and dementia symptoms characteristic of Parkinson's disease.
Potential Treatment: B Vitamin Supplementation
A 2003 study found that high doses of riboflavin could help recover some motor functions in Parkinson's patients who also eliminated red meat from their diets. This new research builds on that finding, proposing that high doses of vitamin B might prevent some of the damage caused by gut dysbiosis and toxin exposure.
Implications for Treatment:
- Personalized Approach: Not all Parkinson's patients experience the same causes and symptoms. Individual assessments through gut microbiota or fecal metabolite analysis could identify specific deficiencies.
- B Vitamin Supplementation: Administering oral riboflavin and biotin supplements to those with decreased levels could potentially create an effective treatment for a subset of patients.
Categories
Categories
Humanized Health - NEW!
Learn about personalized health from top experts! Check out our fascinating new shows every week, available as videos, podcasts and transcripts.:
Our Bloggers
-
Paula Gallagher
Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
read more.. -
Margo Gladding
Margo's impressive knowledge base is the result of a unique blend of educational and professional experience.
read more.. -
Dr. Neal Barnard
Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research.
read more.. -
Dr. Joseph Pizzorno
Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, ND is a pioneer of integrative medicine and a leading authority on science-based natural medicine.
read more.. -
Debi Silber
Debi is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition, a personal trainer, and whole health coach.
read more..
SEE ALL OF OUR BLOGGERS
Invalid password
Enter
Learning Resources
Consultations
Green Initiatives
Pharmacy/Compounding
Humanized Health
Village Green Blog
Stay Connected
Village Green Apothecary
5415 W Cedar Ln
Bethesda, Maryland, 20814
(301) 530-0800
Toll Free: (800) 869-9159
The information provided on this site is not intended to be a substitute for advice or treatment from a qualified physician, nor is it intended to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Consult your physician prior to starting any new health program or if you any questions regarding a medical condition.
© 2023 Village Green Apothecary - All Rights Reserved.