New study finds people who consume higher servings are more likely to show early signs of the disease:

 

New study finds people who consume higher servings are more likely to show early signs of the disease:

A recent study published in Neurology has found that individuals who consume higher amounts of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are significantly more likely to exhibit early signs of Parkinson’s disease. The research, which followed over 42,000 adults for up to 26 years, revealed that participants consuming 11 or more servings of UPFs daily were 2.5 times more likely to show at least three prodromal (early) symptoms of Parkinson’s compared to those consuming fewer than three servings per day.

 

Key Findings:

• Early Symptoms Identified: The study focused on prodromal symptoms such as REM sleep behavior disorder, depression, impaired sense of smell, body pain, and excessive daytime sleepiness. These symptoms can precede the classic motor signs of Parkinson’s by years or even decades.

 

• Dietary Impact: Ultra-processed foods—including sugary sodas, packaged snacks, processed meats, and ready-made meals—are high in additives, unhealthy fats, and sugars. Their consumption has been linked to increased oxidative stress and disruption of the gut microbiome, factors that may contribute to brain inflammation and neuronal damage.
• Broader Health Implications: Beyond Parkinson’s, high intake of UPFs has been associated with elevated risks of dementia, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers.

 

Recommendations:

Health experts advise reducing the consumption of ultra-processed foods and adopting dietary patterns rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods. Diets like the Mediterranean and MIND diets, which emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, have been associated with better neurological health and may help in delaying or preventing the onset of neurodegenerative diseases.

While the study establishes a strong association between UPF consumption and early Parkinson’s symptoms, it does not confirm causation. Nonetheless, the findings underscore the importance of dietary choices in maintaining brain health and preventing neurodegenerative conditions.