Possible causes of Parkinson that might be Alleviated by Intermittent Fasting

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain. It is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease that affects aging individuals.

It is characterized by abnormal movement, slowness, muscle rigidity, and involuntary shaking when sitting or standing still (tremors). It destroys dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain. 

Dopamine is responsible for controlling cognitive processes in the brain particularly those that deal with executive functions such as planning and attaining goals. It also controls the body movement. Damage to these nerve cells can result in poor coordination and muscle tremors.

Parkinson is mainly thought to be caused by genetics and environmental factors. From the Intermittent Fasting perspective, some of the causes include:

- Inflammation: inflammation can damage brain neuros and trigger the development of Parkinson

- Mitochondrial dysfunction:  the mitochondria plays a critical role in the functioning of neurons in the brain. A dysfunction can alter the role of the neurons and lead to the development of Parkinson. It can also affect dopamine production, which is essential for maintaining proper brain functioning.

- Dopamine: dopamine plays a critical role in the movement control of the body. The degeneration of the neurons that produce dopamine is a main cause that leads to the development of Parkinson. 

Dopamine production and mitochondria function are interconnected because dopamine production depends on the proper functioning of the mitochondria. 

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Why Intermittent Fasting (IF) helps treat and prevent Parkinson

Intermittent fasting can help reduce Parkinson disease because it can lower inflammation, improve dopamine production, and maintain proper mitochondria functioning.

As such, this helps treat and prevent Parkinson based on the following:

- Inflammation: by lowering inflammation, intermittent fasting diet can help reduce neurons damage and protect the brain. Thus, it helps it maintain its functions

- Mitochondria: by maintaining proper functioning of the mitochondria, intermittent fasting can help provide the brain with the necessary energy to function properly

- Dopamine: ensuring proper dopamine production is essential to prevent and reduce Parkinson symptoms. Intermittent fasting is suggested to maintain proper dopamine levels because it helps support the mitochondria function that is directly connected with dopamine production

How Intermittent Fasting (IF) works for Parkinson

Intermittent fasting helps treat and prevent Parkinson by lowering inflammation and improving cells functioning. This is done through the following mechanism:

- Autophagy: intermittent fasting helps promote autophagy which can support cell regeneration and helps keep the cells healthy and functioning properly. In addition, intermittent fasting has been shown to increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is a protein that supports the growth and survival of neurons

- Pro-inflammatory markers: intermittent fasting helps reduce the production of pro-inflammatory markers cytokines by activating Nrf2-ARE pathway that is involved in the regulation of anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory responses in the body. Some studies have shown that Nrf2-ARE pathway is linked to increased dopamine production in the body and improved motor function

Intermittent Fasting (IF) for Parkinson: Food List

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Intermittent Fasting (IF) for Parkinson: Fasting Schedule

Intermittent fasting is not a specific diet program, but rather a pattern of eating that involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting.

There are several different methods of intermittent fasting, each with its own unique set of rules. Here are a few popular methods:

- The 16/8 Method: This involves fasting for 16 hours and eating during an 8 hour window. For example, you might eat from 12pm to 8pm and then fast until 12pm the next day.

- The 5:2 Diet: This method involves eating normally for 5 days of the week and restricting calories to 500-600 for the other 2 days.

- Alternate Day Fasting: This method involves alternating between a day of normal eating and a day of calorie restriction.

- Eat-Stop-Eat: This involves one or two 24-hour fasting periods per week.

- The Warrior Diet: This method involves eating a very small amount of raw fruits and vegetables during the day, then eating one large meal at night.

It's important to note that everyone's body is different, and what works well for one person may not work well for another.

Intermittent Fasting (IF) for Parkinson: recommendations

When following an intermittent fasting protocol, it is important to keep in mind a few recommendations:

- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water during the fasting period to stay hydrated and to help curb hunger.

- Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body's signals and stop fasting if you feel unwell or overly hungry.

- Gradually adjust: Gradually increase the duration of your fasting period to allow your body to adapt.

- Consider your medications: Some medications require food to be taken with them, consult with your doctor before starting an intermittent fasting routine.

- Be consistent: Intermittent fasting works best when it's done consistently over time.

Intermittent Fasting (IF) for Parkinson: what you should avoid

When following an intermittent fasting protocol, it is best to avoid certain foods and habits:

- Sugary foods and drinks: Consuming high amounts of sugar can cause spikes in blood sugar levels and can disrupt the body's metabolic changes during fasting.

- Processed foods: Processed foods are often high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and calories, and can disrupt the body's metabolic changes during fasting.

- High-calorie beverages: Drinks like soda, juice, and sweetened coffee and tea can contain a lot of calories and sugar, which can disrupt the body's metabolic changes during fasting.

- Snacking: Consuming small amounts of food during the fasting period can disrupt the body's metabolic changes and negate the benefits of fasting.

- Overeating during non-fasting period: Eating large meals or consuming high-calorie foods during the non-fasting period can negate the benefits of intermittent fasting.

- Alcohol: Consuming alcohol during the fasting period can disrupt the body's metabolic changes and negate the benefits of fasting.

- Breaking the fast with a heavy meal: Some people recommend breaking the fast with a light, nutrient-dense meal rather than a heavy meal.

Intermittent Fasting (IF) for Parkinson: precautions

Intermittent fasting is not for everyone and may not be suitable for certain people such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with history of eating disorder, or people with blood sugar issues.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or exercise program, especially if you have any health conditions or take any medications.

Intermittent Fasting (IF) for Parkinson: side effects

Intermittent fasting can have some side effects, particularly during the initial adjustment period. Some of the most common side effects include:

- Hunger: During the fasting period, you may feel hungry or experience cravings for food. This is normal and should improve as your body adjusts to the new eating pattern.

- Fatigue: Some people may feel tired or have low energy levels during the fasting period. This is also normal and should improve as your body adjusts to the new eating pattern.

- Headaches: Some people may experience headaches or lightheadedness during the fasting period. This is usually caused by low blood sugar and should improve as your body adjusts to the new eating pattern.

- Difficulty sleeping: Intermittent fasting may disrupt sleep patterns, particularly if you eat a large meal late at night. This can usually be resolved by adjusting the timing of your meals.

- Constipation: Intermittent fasting may cause constipation, particularly if you don't eat enough fiber during the eating period. This can usually be resolved by increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables.

It's important to note that these side effects are usually temporary and should improve as your body adjusts to the new eating pattern. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional.