Here’s a gut check – new research reports that Parkinson’s disease may start in the gut.
A study led by the Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that damage to the lining of the upper gastrointestinal tract from stomach ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as acid reflux, can increase the risk of Parkinson’s by 76%. .
And Duke Health researchers recently noted that gastrointestinal symptoms like constipation can often precede the decline of motor skills in Parkinson’s patients.
Now, California gastroenterologist Saurabh Sethi is sharing four simple ways to quickly improve gut health. In a TikTok post shared this week, he recommends consuming probiotics, prebiotics, high-fiber foods and more water.
Slowly introduce these elements into your diet to see how your body reacts.
Probiotics
Our gut microbiome—the collection of bacteria, viruses, and fungi in our digestive system—breaks down complex carbohydrates and proteins from food, producing essential vitamins and nutrients that can benefit overall health.
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeast that can improve the composition of the microbiome by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Sethi suggests consuming probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, especially a traditional Indian type known as dahi; kefir, a fermented milk drink; kombucha; kimchi and idli, a delicious rice cake.
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are special plant fibers that act as fuel for probiotics to grow and thrive.
Sethi suggests consuming prebiotic foods such as garlic, onions and asparagus. But, beware of some unpleasant side effects.
High fiber foods
In addition to feeding probiotics, fiber facilitates smooth and regular bowel movements, helps control blood sugar, lowers cholesterol, and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Sethi advises consuming 30 grams of fiber each day through foods such as chia seeds, berries and oats.
“People who eat more fiber live longer [and] they have less acid reflux and less constipation,” explained Sethi.
The American Heart Association recommends getting at least 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day — although most Americans only consume about 15 grams a day.
More water
“Fiber and water go hand in hand. Fiber absorbs water,” Sethi noted. Aim for about eight glasses of water a day.
Eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day have long been the gold standard for hydration, although some experts recommend ½ ounce to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight each day.
Hydration needs can vary based on body size, metabolism, diet, weather and activity levels.
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