As a gut and mental health clinical dietitian, I am always looking at the latest research on how our gut microbiota can impact our overall health, especially when it comes to neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. One diet that has been shown to have significant positive effects on gut health and may have a protective effect against these diseases is the Mediterranean diet.
he Mediterranean diet is a way of eating that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (such as fish and poultry), and healthy fats (like olive oil and nuts). It also emphasizes moderate consumption of red wine and limits processed foods, sugar, and red meat.
Research has shown that the Mediterranean diet can lead to a more diverse and healthy gut microbiota, which in turn may have protective effects on the brain. Studies have shown that individuals following a Mediterranean diet have lower levels of inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, both of which are key factors in the development of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
In fact, a study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition found that individuals with Parkinson’s disease who followed a Mediterranean diet had better cognitive function and lower levels of disability compared to those who did not follow the diet. The researchers speculated that the beneficial effects of the diet on gut health and inflammation may be the reason for these findings.
Similarly, research has also shown that the Mediterranean diet can have a protective effect against Alzheimer’s disease. A study published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that individuals who adhered to a Mediterranean diet had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared to those who did not follow the diet. The researchers noted that the diet’s impact on inflammation and oxidative stress may be responsible for this protective effect.
One of the main modulators of the gut microbiota is the diet, which directly influences host homeostasis and biological processes. Some dietary patterns can affect neurodegenerative diseases’ progression through gut microbiota composition, gut permeability, and the synthesis and secretion of microbial-derived neurotrophic factors and neurotransmitters.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are the two most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases, both without prevenon or cure. The Mediterranean diet (MeDi) may be neuroprotective by modulating gut microbiota. We aimed to assess the effects of adherence to MeDi on the gut microbiota in relation to AD or PD risk. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the most common movement disorder affecting up to 1% of the population above the age of 60 and 4–5% of those above the age of 85. Nowadays , there is much evidence on how mediterranean diet can improve the health state of this clinical condition
Diet in Parkinson’s Disease
There is a growing body of epidemiological evidence to support that diet impacts (positively or negatively) the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as PD. The Western diet is among the greatest risk factors for developing neurodegenerative diseases such as PD . The Western diet is characterized by high caloric intake of energy dense foods, high in saturated and omega-6 (ω6) fatty acids, refined sugars, excessive salt intake, and low consumption of omega-3 (ω3) fatty acids and fiber . The MeDi, dense in nutrients, has been associated with improved cardiovascular and cardiodiabesity health as well as with improved neurologic health. MeDi adherence reduces the risk of AD and PD, and that MeDi adherence may help to maintain gut eubiosis.
Studies show Consumption of high quantities of animal saturated fat has been widely reported to be associated with increased risk of developing PD Foods associated with more rapid PD progression include canned fruits and vegetables, soda, fried foods, beef, ice cream, and cheese (all characteristic of the Western diet)
Overall, the research suggests that the Mediterranean diet may be a powerful tool in preventing and managing neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. By promoting a healthy gut microbiota and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, this diet has the potential to support brain health and cognitive function.
As a gut and mental health clinical dietitian, I recommend incorporating more of the principles of the Mediterranean diet into your daily eating habits. Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, and limit processed foods and sugars. Your gut and your brain will thank you for it!
