Diet changes in patients with Parkinson’s may improve longevity

According to a new research conducted by researchers from the University of Aberdeen, weight loss in people with Parkinson’s is associated with reducing expectancy of life, increasing the risk of dementia and also increasing dependency on caregivers.

The study was published in the journal Neurology. It closely monitored 275 people with Parkinson’s disorders for about 10 years. The findings showed that weight loss is common in Parkinson’s disorders and occurs in early stages of the disease.

Dr. Angus MacLeod and his team, who led the study, said that weight loss is a common problem in Parkinson’s disease. However, it was not clear before the study how common it is, because of the inclusion of biased samples in previously conducted studies. The hypothesis of the study is people, who lose weight would face adverse outcomes.

Thus, reversing weight loss may improve outcomes. So, the question that needs to be answered is whether high calorie diets will improve outcomes in people with Parkinson’s, who lose weight.

The funding for the study came from Parkinson’s UK. According to Professor David Dexter, Deputy Director Parkinson’s UK, as per various studies weight loss is common in Parkinson’s, but this is the first study to evaluate the impact of this symptom.

It is yet to be established that this symptom may be corrected using high-calorie diet.

Source:medicalxpress.com