Natural Nutritional Supplements for Parkinson's

Parkinson's disease is a severe neurological problem caused by brain cell damage and affects how muscles in the body move. A common treatment for Parkinson's is the use of nutritional supplements. These supplements can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological problems associated with this disease. A few natural nutritional supplements have proven helpful for the brain of Parkinson's sufferers.

Lecithin/Phosphatidyl Choline

• Lecithin plays a major role in facilitating learning and cognitive function by maintaining the health of the cell membranes through the transportation of fats. It is naturally found in cabbage, cauliflower, egg yolks, liver, oatmeal and soybeans but is sometimes added to processed foods. Studies have shown that people with higher degrees of learning and better memory skills have higher levels of lecithin in the body. This has been proven true even among patients suffering from dementia in Parkinson's disease. Lecithin is also used to help prevent and treat neurological problems and effects from neurological diseases and disorders.

Vitamin B3

• Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, works to release energy and assists with circulatory function of the cells and maintains the health of the nervous system. Parkinson's patients often have a deficiency in niacin. Patients with Parkinson's can take supplements to make up for the Vitamin B3 deficiency or increase consumption through vegetables, cereal, proteins and dairy products.

Vitamin E

• Taking Vitamin E is believed to help reduce tissue damage and increase circulation, which is crucial to neurological health. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant that can help to reduce damage to the brain by reducing the impact of chemicals. As of 2009, there was not much data to support the belief that Vitamin E is beneficial to Parkinson's patients specifically.

Multivitamins

• Multivitamins can have many effects on the body of a patient suffering from disease. The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) states that multivitamin supplements can support the health of the brain as they are absorbed into the body. It is important to find a vitamin that is easily absorbed by the body to make sure you are receiving the full benefit of the supplement.

Dietary Changes

• The most important source of energy for a brain is through food. The brain is able to directly absorb proteins in the food. Eating foods high in protein is paramount to maintaining high energy flow and helping the brain to function at its highest levels. Patients that suffer from neurological problems, like those associated with Parkinson's disease, are often placed on higher protein diets and their carbohydrate intake is often restricted so that the brain is provided with the necessary nutrients. If you notice a sudden, significant change in your fine motor skills, it is important to discuss the change with your physician as your carbohydrate or protein levels may need to be monitored.