Parkinson’s Disease
PARKINSON’S DISEASE IS A PROGRESSIVE NEURODEGENERATIVE DISORDER THAT PRIMARILY AFFECTS MOVEMENT BUT ALSO IMPACTS COGNITION, MOOD, AND OVERALL QUALITY OF LIFE.
It results from the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, leading to a range of motor and non-motor symptoms. Parkinson’s is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, affecting approximately 10 million people worldwide.
While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, a personalised approach focusing on diet, nutrition, and drug-nutrient timing can help individuals live well within the constraints of the disease. This approach, rooted in the pioneering work of Dr. Geoffrey and Lucille Leader, is designed to optimise quality of life and support brain and physical health.
Symptoms
TREMORS (SHAKING)
MUSCLE STIFFNESS OR RIGIDITY
SLOWNESS OF MOVEMENT (BRADYKINESIA)
BALANCE ISSUES AND RISK OF FALLS
COGNITIVE CHANGES, INCLUDING MEMORY DIFFICULTIES
ANXIETY OR DEPRESSION
SLEEP DISTURBANCES
DIGESTIVE ISSUES, INCLUDING CONSTIPATION
LOSS OF SENSE OF SMELL
The conventional approach
Conventional treatment for Parkinson’s focuses on managing symptoms, often through medications such as levodopa and dopamine agonists. These treatments can help improve motor symptoms but often require careful timing and management to prevent side effects and fluctuations. Conventional care may also include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to address other aspects of the condition.
Our approach
Our approach focuses on enabling clients to live well with Parkinson’s by optimising their nutrition, addressing non-motor symptoms, and working in harmony with conventional treatments. Trained by Dr. Geoffrey and Lucille Leader, pioneers in nutritional approaches to Parkinson’s, we take a holistic and personalised approach that includes:
DRUG NUTRIENT TIMING
Optimising the timing of medication relative to meals to enhance drug efficacy and reduce side effects, such as nausea or fluctuations in symptom control
NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT
Addressing nutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin D, magnesium, and antioxidants, to support brain and nerve health
GUT BRAIN AXIS SUPPORT
Investigating and addressing gut health, as many individuals with Parkinson’s experience gastrointestinal symptoms that can affect nutrient absorption and overall health
MANAGING OXIDATIVE STRESS
Supporting the body’s ability to manage oxidative stress, a significant contributor to neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s
PERSONALISED DIETARY STRATEGIES
Tailoring nutrition to the individual, including anti-inflammatory diets and strategies to support mitochondrial function and dopamine production
LIFESTYLE INTERVENTIONS
Recommending exercise, stress management, and sleep optimisation to support overall well-being
COGNITIVE & EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
Addressing cognitive changes and mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, through personalised strategies that complement conventional therapies
This integrative approach empowers individuals to take control of their health, optimise their quality of life, and live well within the constraints of the disease.
