Natural Options that Reverse Symptoms

Author: manabunnow4zph (Page 1 of 39)

Research on Aspartame and Parkinsons

Nutr Neurosci. 2024 May;27(5):506-519. Aspartame use and Parkinson’s disease: review of associated effects on neurotransmitters, oxidative stress, and cognition

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this review was to assess the current evidence regarding the associated physiological and cognitive effects of aspartame (APM) consumption and Parkinson’s Disease (PD).

Methods: A total of 32 studies demonstrating effects of APM on monoamine deficiencies, oxidative stress, and cognitive changes were reviewed.

Results: Multiple studies demonstrated decreased brain dopamine, decreased brain norepinephrine, increased oxidative stress, increased lipid peroxidation, and decreased memory function in rodents after APM use. In addition, PD animal models have been found to be more sensitive to the effects of APM.

Discussion: Overall, studies of APM use over time yielded more consistent results.

********

Neurology. 2025 Oct 7;105(7):e214023. Association Between Consumption of Low- and No-Calorie Artificial Sweeteners and Cognitive Decline: An 8-Year Prospective Study

Abstract

Background and objectives: Consumption of low- and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCSs) has been associated with adverse health outcomes. However, little is known about the association between consumption of LNCSs and cognition. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between consumption of LNCSs and cognitive decline.

Methods: We conducted a longitudinal observational study using data from civil servants aged 35+ years at baseline who were enrolled in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health and evaluated across 3 study waves (2008-10, 2012-14, and 2017-19). Participants with incomplete dietary data, extreme caloric intake (<1st percentile or >99th percentile), and incomplete data for cognitive tests and covariates at baseline were excluded. A Food Frequency Questionnaire was used to calculate combined and individual consumption of 7 LNCSs (aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame k, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, and tagatose). We estimated z-scores across 6 cognitive tests. The association of LNCSs with cognitive decline was evaluated using linear mixed-effects models.

Results: Among 12,772 participants (mean age 51.9 ± 9.0 years, 54.8% women, 43.2% Black/mixed race), the mean consumption of LNCSs was 92.1 ± 90.1 mg/d. Among participants aged younger than 60 years, consumption of combined LNCSs in the highest tertiles was associated with a faster decline in verbal fluency (second tertile: ? = -0.016, 95% CI -0.040 to -0.008; third tertile: ? = -0.040, 95% CI -0.064 to -0.016) and global cognition (second tertile: ? = -0.008, 95% CI -0.024 to 0.008; third tertile: ? = -0.024, 95% CI -0.040 to -0.008). There was no association between tertiles of LNCSs and cognitive decline in participants aged 60+ years.

Consumption of aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame k, erythritol, sorbitol, and xylitol was associated with a faster decline in global cognition, particularly in memory and verbal fluency domains. Consumption of combined LNCSs in the highest tertiles was associated with a faster decline in verbal fluency and global cognition in participants without diabetes and faster decline in memory and global cognition in participants with diabetes.

Discussion: Consumption of LNCSs was associated with an accelerated rate of cognitive decline during 8 years of follow-up. Our findings suggest the possibility of long-term harm from LNCS consumption, particularly artificial LNCSs and sugar alcohols, on cognitive function. 

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com

Which Treatment Option is Right for Me?

I have now documented through Parkinsons Recovery over 120 natural therapies, methods and treatments that offer some degree of symptom relief. Quite frankly, I have been surprised at the number of options that have been documented by research studies that help. It comes down to the simple question of which treatment option is right for me? It may help someone else. Great. But will it help me?

The good news is that there are many natural options that  offer symptom relief.  The bad news is that the choice of which ones to pursue is overwhelming. While research studies report options help some people, but not everyone benefits. This makes the choices even more challenging and stressful.

One possibility is to contact health care professionals and your doctor to get their opinion. I am always happy to offer my opinion as well.  Of course, my opinion is just a guess as to what might be right for you and your body. Of course, soliciting the opinions of others can also create added stress because everyone seems to be suggesting something different for you to purse.

Given the above, I have a gold standard suggestion of how you can get the answers you need about which natural therapies to pursue. It is not to ask a person or a friend or a family member. It is simply to ask your own intuition what is the right course of action to pursue.

I have learned that we all know the right decisions to make, but we somehow falsely conclude that only a qualified health care professional has the “right” answers. Again, they certainly can offer helpful information, but no one other than yourself knows what would be the right choices for you.

How do you tap into your inner guidance and wisdom?  First, simply trust that you and your body know the choices that are best for you.  Then, set into motion a habit of meditating on answers to the questions you have about what action you should take.

Steps to Decide Which Treatment Option is Right for Me

  1. Write down the question you would like to be answered. For example,  I have learned therapy X helps some people. Will it help me? Should I pursue it?
  2. Play music that you  love that is calming and soothing to your soul.
  3. Simply wait for whatever insights or perspectives are revealed. You can close your eyes and meditate if that is familiar to you – or just sit and wait for the answer. Your intuition might instantly reveal the answer or it may take a few minutes.
  4. Write down the answer that comes through. It may be revealed through an image, a memory, a smell, a taste, or even words. Just wait and trust that the answer will be revealed.  Then, trust that the answer is always revealed when you simply trust your intuition rather than believing the answer should be revealed by an “expert” who knows nothing about your body.

Would  you like to be sure and cover all the possible options (since there are so many). They are revealed in my online course Rock Solid Walking.
https://www.blog.parkinsonsrecovery.com/rock-solid-walking-course/

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease

The Reason for Mobility Difficulties

When I ask people if walking is improved when they are in nature, the answer 100% of the time is yes. Why should hanging out in nature be such a tremendous support to rock solid walking?

The straightforward answer is – nature helps ground our energetic system.

As I describe in the video – problematic walking is directly connected to energy which is top heavy. Effortless mobility requires that our energy be distributed evenly from our head to our feet. When more energy is circulating around our head and the top of our body we become top heavy and are much more likely to fall, stumble and freeze.

The one criteria for energy healers to help their clients manifest improved mobility is for them to become grounded. If their energy is running haphazardly from left to right or spinning at the top of the body, they will simply exaggerate the problems a client confronts.

Another way of understanding what it means to be grounded is to “be in our body.”  When we reside only in our mind and brain with thoughts of worry and regret we are not grounded and will confront mobility challenges.

How to Become Grounded

  • Take off shoes and walk in the grass
  • Wear the color red
  • Spend your day out in nature as much as possible even if it means standing outside for a few minutes
  • Take off shoes when walking around your home.
  • Get grounding mats for your bed or a chair where you sit often
  • Use your intention to shift the energy from your head to your legs and feet.
  • Become mindful of each and every step you take.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com 
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease

 

Two Simple Suggestions to Support Recovery

What are two simple suggestions to support recovery from Parkinsons?The vast number of natural therapies documented by Parkinsons Recovery that support recovery is indeed overwhelming. So many choices! Which ones offer the greatest possibility of relief for you?

The challenge for everyone is that no option – whether a prescription medicine, surgery or natural treatment helps everyone celebrate recovery. Most people celebrate relief from symptoms for many of the options but not everyone. It comes down to the challenge of deciding which treatment options are most likely to benefit you.

Two Simple Suggestions to Support Recovery

I asked Dr. Bruce Fife, ND, to offer two (and only two) suggestions among the many that are available that he suggests would be most likely to benefit the most people. Here is his unexpected answer:

Might I add that the cost of these two suggestions is minimal relative to the anticipated benefit. I say go for it!

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease

Insulin Resistance

 

I am guessing that you have concluded you have no issues with insulin resistance so you have little interest in digging deeper into this topic.  When I ask members of my audience this question – the most typical answer is that I have been tested and declared “normal.”

Naturopath Bruce Fife ND below responds to a question asked by a member of my audience about sugar. Note that he estimates 90% of the population has some degree of insulin resistance, so if you have concluded you are not insulin resistance, please reconsider

Insulin resistance correlated with Parkinson’s symptoms: One of the most ground breaking research discoveries of the past decade ….

Are you tired all the time. Do you usually have little energy?

The breakdown of glucose synthesis may well be the reason. Metabolically, insulin receptors play a key role in the regulation of glucose homeostasis, Insulin signaling controls access to blood glucose in body cells.

Do you typically feel better in the morning before you have had something to eat? This is a clue that you may be susceptible to insulin resistance. Fasting over night means that is a 12 hour or more period you have not eaten anything. This is the condition needed by the body for the liver to manufacture ketones. Before eating anything in the morning. your brain is being efficiently fueled by ketones rather than glucose which is the by product of eating anything.

Epidemiological evidence and experimental data support the interaction between Parkinson’s and diabetes. Treatments for diabetes show promising neuro-protective results in PD patients for both diabetic and non-diabetic patients, Therefore, the role of anti-diabetic treatments for Parkinson’s patients offers a promising therapeutic approach

Ask your self – why are so many persons diagnosed with neurological conditions so thin? A logical reason is that when they eat, their symptoms worsen, so they do not eat regularly

Studies that find the connection between insulin resistance and Parkinson’s symptoms

Mov Disord. 2022 Aug;37(8):1612-1623. The Impact of Type 2 Diabetes in Parkinson’s Disease. Dilan Athauda, James Evans, Anna Wernick, Gurvir Virdi, Minee L Choi, Michael Lawton, Nirosen Vijiaratnam, Christine Girges, Yoav Ben-Shlomo, Khalida Ismail, Huw Morris, Donald Grosset, Thomas Foltynie, Sonia Gandhi 

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is an established risk factor for developing Parkinson’s disease (PD), but its effect on disease progression is not well understood.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of T2DM on aspects of disease progression in PD.

Methods: We analyzed data from the Tracking Parkinson’s study to examine the effects of comorbid T2DM on PD progression and quality of life by comparing symptom severity scores assessing a range of motor and nonmotor symptoms.

Results: We identified 167 (8.7%) patients with PD and T2DM (PD + T2DM) and 1763 (91.3%) patients with PD without T2DM (PD). After controlling for confounders, patients with Type 2 Diabetes had more severe motor symptoms, as assessed by Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale, Part III (25.8 [0.9] vs. 22.5 [0.3] P = 0.002), and nonmotor symptoms, as assessed by Non-Motor Symptoms Scale total (38.4 [2.5] vs. 31.8 [0.7] P < 0.001), and were significantly more likely to report loss of independence (odds ratio, 2.08; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.34-3.25; P = 0.001) and depression (odds ratio, 1.62; CI: 1.10-2.39; P = 0.015). Furthermore, over time, patients with T2DM had significantly faster motor symptom progression (P = 0.012), developed worse mood symptoms (P = 0.041), and were more likely to develop substantial gait impairment (hazard ratio, 1.55; CI: 1.07-2.23; P = 0.020) and mild cognitive impairment (hazard ratio, 1.7; CI: 1.24-2.51; P = 0.002) compared with the PD group. 

Conclusions: In the largest study to date, T2DM is associated with faster disease progression in Parkinson’s, highlighting an interaction between these two diseases. Because it is a potentially modifiable metabolic state, with multiple peripheral and central targets for intervention, it may represent a target for alleviating parkinsonian symptoms and slowing progression to disability and dementia. 

Mov Disord. 2021 Jun;36(6):1420-1429. Type 2 Diabetes as a Determinant of Parkinson’s Disease Risk and Progression. Harneek Chohan, Konstantin Senkevich, Radhika K Patel, Jonathan P Bestwick, Benjamin M Jacobs, Sara Bandres Ciga, Ziv Gan-Or, Alastair J Noyce 

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are prevalent diseases that affect an aging population. Previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses have explored the relationship between diabetes and the risk of PD, but the results have been conflicting. 

Objective: The objective was to investigate T2DM as a determinant of PD through a meta-analysis of observational and genetic summary data.

Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies was undertaken by searching 6 databases. We selected the highest-quality studies investigating the association of T2DM with PD risk and progression. We then used Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the causal effects of genetic liability toward T2DM on PD risk and progression, using summary data derived from genome-wide association studies.

Results: In the observational part of the study, pooled effect estimates showed that T2DM was associated with an increased risk of PD (odds ratio [OR] 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07-1.36), and there was some evidence that T2DM was associated with faster progression of motor symptoms (standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.55, 95% CI 0.39-0.72) and cognitive decline (SMD -0.92, 95% CI -1.50 to -0.34). Using MR, we found supportive evidence for a causal effect of diabetes on PD risk (inverse-variance weighted method [IVW] OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02-1.14; P = 0.010) and some evidence of an effect on motor progression (IVW OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.01-1.20; P = 0.032) but not on cognitive progression.

Conclusions: Using meta-analyses of traditional observational studies and genetic data, we observed convincing evidence for an effect of T2DM on PD risk and new evidence to support a role in PD progression.   

J Parkinsons Dis. 2020;10(3):775-789. The Association Between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Parkinson’s Disease. Julia L Y Cheong, Eduardo de Pablo-Fernandez, Thomas Foltynie Alastair J Noyce

Abstract

In recent years, an emerging body of evidence has forged links between Parkinson’s disease (PD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In observational studies, those with T2DM appear to be at increased risk of developing PD, as well as experiencing faster progression and a more severe phenotype of PD, with the effects being potentially mediated by several common cellular pathways. The insulin signalling pathway, for example, may be responsible for neurodegeneration via insulin dysregulation, aggregation of amyloids, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and altered synaptic plasticity. In light of these potential shared disease mechanisms, clinical trials are now investigating the use of established diabetes drugs targeting insulin resistance in the management of PD.  

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com

Coconut Oil for Parkinsons

The following is an interview with Dr. Bruce Fife on coconut oil for Parkinsons. He is the international expert on coconut oil as a remedy for a wide variety of illnesses including Parkinsons.

A listing of Dr. Fife’s books on coconut oil is available here:
https://www.piccadillybooks.com/

The following information is taken from Dr. Fife’s Coconut Research Website:
https://coconutresearchcenter.org/

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Parkinsons

Modern medical science confirms the use of coconut in treating many conditions. Published studies in medical journals show that coconut, in one form or another, provides a wide range of health benefits. Some are summarized below:

  •  Kills viruses that cause influenza, herpes, measles, hepatitis C, SARS, AIDS, and other illnesses.
  • Kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, gum disease and cavities, pneumonia, and gonorrhea, and other diseases.
  • Kills fungi and yeasts that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete’s foot, thrush, diaper rash, and other infections.
  • Expels or kills tapeworms, lice, giardia, and other parasites.
  • Provides a nutritional source of quick energy.
  • Boosts energy and endurance, enhancing physical and athletic performance.
  • Improves digestion and absorption of other nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
  • Improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose.
  • Relieves stress on pancreas and enzyme systems of the body.
  • Reduces symptoms associated with pancreatitis.
  • Helps relieve symptoms and reduce health risks associated with diabetes.
  • Reduces problems associated with malabsorption syndrome and cystic fibrosis.
  • Improves calcium and magnesium absorption and supports the development of strong bones and teeth.
  • Helps protect against osteoporosis.
  • Helps relieve symptoms associated with gallbladder disease.
  • Relieves symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and stomach ulcers.
  • Improves digestion and bowel function.
  • Relieves pain and irritation caused by hemorrhoids.
  • Reduces inflammation.
  • Supports tissue healing and repair.
  • Supports and aids immune system function.
  • Helps protect the body from breast, colon, and other cancers.
  • Is heart healthy; improves cholesterol ratio reducing risk of heart disease.
  • Protects arteries from injury that causes atherosclerosis and thus protects against heart disease.
  • Helps prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay.
  • Functions as a protective antioxidant.
  • Helps to protect the body from harmful free radicals that promote premature aging and degenerative disease.
  • Does not deplete the body’s antioxidant reserves like other oils do.
  • Improves utilization of essential fatty acids and protects them from oxidation.
    Helps relieve symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome.
  • Relieves symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement).
    Reduces epileptic seizures.
  • Helps protect against kidney disease and bladder infections.
  • Dissolves kidney stones.
  • Helps prevent liver disease.
  • Is lower in calories than all other fats.
  • Supports thyroid function.
  • Promotes loss of excess weight by increasing metabolic rate.
  • Is utilized by the body to produce energy in preference to being stored as body fat like other dietary fats.
  • Helps prevent obesity and overweight problems.
  • Applied topically helps to form a chemical barrier on the skin to ward off infection.
  • Reduces symptoms associated the psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.
  • Supports the natural chemical balance of the skin.
  • Softens skin and helps relieve dryness and flaking.
  • Prevents wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots.
  • Promotes healthy looking hair and complexion.
    Provides protection from damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
  • Helps control dandruff.
  • Does not form harmful by-products when heated to normal cooking temperature like other vegetable oils do.
  • Has no harmful or discomforting side effects.
  • Is completely non-toxic to humans.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease

Fava Bean Tincture for Parkinsons

This interview of Sandra (otherwise known as Aunt Bean) about using her fava bean tincture for Parkinsons was over 15 years ago now. She discusses her invention of a tincture make from the tips of fava bean plants she grows. I have edited and am posting this interview for one simple reason.

She continues to find making the tincture from plants she grows in her garden and taking a few drops when symptoms flare to continue to offer her welcome relief from her Parkinsons symptoms.  

The Parkinsons Recovery Fava Bean website: https://www.favabeans.parkinsonsrecovery.com

These are Aunt Bean’s instructions for making her home made fava bean tincture for Parkinsons and sprouting fava beans as natural sources of L-dopa.

Fava Bean Tincture

You first need to grow a few fava bean plants in the spring.  Favas are in the pea family and need a cool growing season. In Tennessee,  Aunt Bean usually starts planting the first of March. Beans will start being ready to harvest the first part of June.

The “tops” or “bud clusters” of the fava bean plants will start to form approximately 6 weeks after planting. This is the part that “Aunt Bean” uses to make her home made tincture.

She dries the bud cluster in a common dehydrator and then places them in a glass jar covered with brandy,which extracts the natural l-dopa. She only uses brandy. The brandy should just cover the plant material.

This jar should be kept in a dark place for 3 to 4 weeks and shaken several times a day if possible. To strain: Place a fine mesh tea strainer over another jar and press to get liquid out of plant material. Let this liquid set (tightly covered) overnight then siphon off without disturbing the sediment on the bottom of the jar with a turkey baster.

Put this clear liquid into a dark bottle / label and keep in a dark place for long shelf life. The sediment can be left in the bottom of jar and used first.

Aunt Bean carries a small dropper bottle of tincture with her to use when symptoms arise during the day.

Fava Bean Sprouts

“Measure into a large bowl 2 Cups of organic, sproutable fava beans 5 Cups of filtered water Let them soak at room temperature 24 hours.

Rinse them well and place beans in a colander and rinse 3 times a day (let drain into sink) for three days. Then peel off the outer skins and cut away any bad places.

After the final rinse. Peel the beans, cut away black spots (beans should be white) they can have a light brown spot around where the little white point of the sprout emerges though, that’s ok. Rinse beans again and steam for 5 minutes until tender enough to eat. You will lose some dopamine if you steam them too long.

Quick freeze on cookie sheets in the freezer then pour into ziplock bags. Steamed sprouts can be eaten as needed or used in recipes. One sprout = approx 2 mg l-dopa.

A report sent to me by a researcher said that the 4th day of sprouting is generally the highest in l-dopa content. Some varieties peak at day 3. My guess is the ones that sprout a day before the others would peak first. The beans do not need a leaf.

Does size or the color of dried beans affect L-dopa amount?

The size and color of the fava beans does not matter, though they will all have different amounts of L-dopa content. It would be best if you can find a source for the one you like best and use it consistently so each one does not effect your dopamine levels differently. You need to try to keep this as level as possible , and only take the smallest amount that you can to control symptoms.

I think the more you take, the less your body thinks it needs to keep making and you want to just give it what it is lacking and not any more.

If you are going the route of making food your medicine like I am….also supply it with nuts for thiamine, apples, strawberries, blueberries, watermelon and especially papaya (if you do not have a latex allergy). Gets lots of exercise and sunshine, breath deep , laugh, dance etc…

You might keep a smaller bag of beans in freezer to keep from getting into the big one several times a day, or grind the beans and take out a tablespoon or what ever you need / or the amount you will use each day and put that in the refrigerator.

DO NOT USE FAVAS IF:

You test positive for favism or, if you take an MAOI drug… it could possibly cause a sudden raise in blood pressure EXAMPLES of MAOI drugs: Selegiline (Eldepryl,Carbex, Deprenyl, Zelepar) Rasagiline (Azilect) Isocaroxazid (Marplan) Phenelzine (Nardil) Tranylcypromine (Parnate) When taking an MAOI drug….avoid eating fermented foods such as wine, aged cheeses, pickles, saurkraut (and possibly fermented papaya)’

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery ®
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease
https://www.parkinsonsdisease.me

Laughter Yoga

I warmly invite you to click the play button below and listen to my interview about laughter yoga for Parkinsons with Laughter Yoga Instructor Gita Fendelman who I interviewed fifteen years ago. Gita reports laughter is a welcome remedy for the symptoms of Parkinsons she experiences.

She continues to laugh every day and has posted several fascinating videos on youtube which you can easily access by searching on her name and “laughter yoga.”

‘‘Laughter yoga is what I like to call my inner pharmacy. It keeps my mood elevated. I laugh at almost everything.

She discusses the benefits of laughter yoga for Parkinsons in my interview with her which I have listed below:

  • Stimulates the part of the brain that uses dopamine
  • Converts soft voices to ones that are strong and loud
  • Improves cardiovascular health
  • Converts a soft voice to one that is a loud and vibrant
  • Helps depression
  • Strengthens the immune system
  • Improves communication skills
  • Enhances creativity
  • Helps with diabetes
  • Reduces stress hormones by 75%
  • Releases muscular and emotional tension
  • Massages organs
  • Exhales stale air at the bottom of your lungs
  • Infuses the body with Oxygen
  • Drops high blood pressure
  • Improves circulation
  • Slows pulse rate
  • Increases endorphin levels
  • Reduces aches and pains
  • Enhances sense of well being and confidence
  • Reduces worries
  • helps with cancer

What is the origin of the impressive list of benefits above? It is extracted from the science of laughter known as gelotology, the study of laughter and its effects on the body. Researchers have examined the wide range of benefits from laughter yoga. Studies find laughter enhances the immune system, improves cardiovascular health, reduces stress ,regulates hormones.

Since COVID, a variety of online laughter yoga clubs have surfaced, but some clubs that meet physically continue to function. One source of clubs is here:

https://www.laughteryoga.org/club/find-clubs-worldwide

Laughter yoga is one among over 100 natural therapies proven by research to offer relief from symptoms of Parkinsons. For information about other natural methods that offer relief from symptoms visit:

https://www.parkinsonsdisease.me

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com

Recharge Dopamine

Here is a fun activity that is guaranteed to recharge dopamine.

What do I suggest? My idea is inspired by Professional Dancer Pamela Quinn. Pamela invented the activity shown in the video below that I facilitated at the Vancouver Parkinsons Recovery Summit.  The activity is obviously fun and engaging. As I tossed more balls to juggle, proficiency improved and the volume of laughter became much louder.

A sinful quantity of dopamine was created in this short 6 minute exercise. Join in the laughter of the moment as you watch. It is like giving yourself a fun  way to recharge dopamine. No medicines or supplements are necessary with this method.

I have received several inquiries recently that express concerns about how to recharge support groups that are boring and lack vitality. It is common for Parkinson’s support groups to move into a negative thought frame where the primary focus revolves around talk about what is wrong with everyone’s body. What can be done in such a situation?

  • Stop attending? This is a preferred choice for many people I have interviewed.
  • Become inundated with negativity? This is difficult to avoid if you continue attending sessions where complaints are aired and agony is the norm.

Why not begin and end all of your support group meetings with this ball tossing exercise?How to Recharge support groups This is a sure fire way to shift negativity into hope without saying a word. It is a simple and proven method to recharge support groups

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
360-866-9297
Parkinsons Recovery
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease

Best Natural Remedies for Parkinsons

My husband has been diagnosed with
Parkinson’s Disease. What are some
of the best natural remedies for Parkinsons?

From my extensive review of the
research literature on Parkinsons
you have asked the right question.
Diet and exercise have a compelling
influence on how your husband
feels every day.

  • Eat healthy food. Exercise. He will
    feel better.
  • Eat junk food. Be a couch potato.
    He will feel lousy.

It is as simple as that. This is not
rocket science.

The research on exercise and Parkinson’s
is unequivocal. Exercise helps people
feel better and get relief from their
symptoms.

Best Natural Remedies for Parkinsons

I have a very simple, perhaps
mundane suggestion. Move any
way it feels good to him. Move
as often as he can.

Some people love to exercise. Other
people hate to exercise. I talked
with one woman last week who loves
to exercise -so much so that her physical
therapist has limited her exercise routine
to 90 minutes. She gets significant relief
from her symptoms.

Other people have never exercised
in their life and are proud of it. Making
a practice of moving every day is an
annoyance. Too bad for them.

I believe the trick is for your husband
to find a way of moving his body that
is motivated from a place deep inside
himself. When he discovers a way of
exercising every day that works for
him his body will let him know:

“Yes. This is what I need. Do it
today. Do it every day.”

What exercise is the right exercise
for your husband? Ask him to remember
what he loved doing when he was a child.
Did he enjoy swimming when he was little?
Then swim now. Did he love to play
marbles? Then play marbles now.
Did he love to play hide and seek?
Then play hide and seek with your
dog Fido now. (My apologies if your
dog is not named Fido). You get the
point.

I have always been a runner, so I run
frequently. I get high when I run.
Running always makes me feel better.
It is the natural remedy that works
for me.

Some people with Parkinson’s tell me
running on a treadmill is their exercise
of choice. Running itself is clearly not
the best form of exercise for many
people.

If any one of us (you or your husband or
myself) is told that we must exercise in
a specific way using a specific routine
for 60 minutes a day, we will not do it
for very long if we do not like doing it.
Period.

I will stick to a routine I do not like
for a week – maybe. Perhaps you
are good for a month. Maybe your
husband is more disciplined and will
last four months.

Eventually, we will all abandon any
type of exercise if it does not give us
intrinsic joy and genuine satisfaction.
The desire to move must, again, be
motivated by a place from deep inside
us.

Another problem can surface if we
exercise because we are told we must
do it to feel bette not because we
want to exercise to feel better. Isn’t
that just what I am telling you now?

If the exercise is forced, we are
likely at some point to stretch and
challenge our muscles incorrectly.
Tares in tissues and serious injuries
can be the consequences. Injuries
do not happen when exercising
is done mindfully.

Of course, if you are injured you
can not exercise. Is not this the
perfect outcome for anyone who
has always hated to exercise?
The steps are simple to follow:

  1. Force yourself to exercise in a
    way that is not right for you.
  2. Injure yourself.
  3. Stop exercising.
  4. Feel worse.
  5. Conclude it is your body’s fault
    for not working correctly.

If the question you ask yourself
repeatedly when you exercise is:

“How much longer do I have to endure
this torture?”

Stop. Consider the possibility there is
another form of exercise that is a
better way of exercising.

You may very well have expected a
different answer to your question
about exercise. Perhaps you were
looking for an answer like this from
me:

“Everyone with Parkinson’s should
do “Professor Bob’s Zippy 2 Hour
Daily workout for Parkinson’s.”
(Just to be clear in case anyone is
wondering – this program does
not exist.)

This is not the response I can give
you because I do not believe that
any single exercise program – even
Professor Bob’s Zippy program is
right for everyone. Any particular
type of exercise will always work
for some people, but it will never
work for all people. Far from it.

What is important is to move. Move.
Move. Move every day. The more
your husband moves the better he
will feel.

Everyone – people who are healthy and
people who are not – should move the
equivalent of 5 miles each day (weekends
included). Total up each of your separate
movements throughout the day to reach
your goal.

For example: Let’s say a walk from your
bedroom to the kitchen in the morning
is .005 miles. A walk from your car to the
store at 9 am is .02 miles. And so forth.
By the end of the day, the sum total of all
such movements should total 5 miles.

There are many, many ways to move
your body. If your husband is not moving
his body every day, I recommend he
investigate the multitude of options
that are available for getting the daily
exercise he needs: Pilate’s, Tia-chi, yoga,
swimming, daily walks — the list is
endless. There are so many fascinating
ways to get exercise.

If he does not move every day, his body
will eventually begin to complain loudly.
Symptoms will smack him in the face.

Have you noticed that there is redundancy
in my writing here? This is just was exercise
is all about, going through the same routine
over and over, day after day. So get with it.

I am working diligently to document ways
of exercising that people with Parkinson’s
tell me helps them feel better. If your husband
has not found a way of exercising that works
for him, stay tuned.

There is a way of exercising somewhere out
in the universe that is perfect for him.
He just needs to discover it. Exercise is clearly
one of the best natural remedies for Parkinsons.

There are also physical therapists who are
specifically trained to help persons with
Parkinson’s. They assess your strengths and
weaknesses and recommend specific exercises
that will help him find relief from his symptoms.

Good options surround you. Explore the options.
Try them out. An exercise routine is not working
for you if you are not doing it regularly and loving
it. Find another. Try it out. Keep experimenting
until you find a way of moving every day that
gives you joy.

Your body will thank you. And you will thank
yourself.

I am supposed to talk two of the best natural remedies
for Parkinsons. One of them is about diet . Oops. Sorry.
No time today. I have to get my daily run in before it gets too
late.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com

 

How to Identify Your Dominant Eye in 10 Seconds or Less

Here are your instructions on how to identify your dominant eye:

  • Put one hand in front of you.
  • Focus on an object like a picture (or a person) beyond you a short distance away.
  • Close one eye with the other hand.
  • Then close the other eye.
  • Notice what happens
  • When one of the two eyes is closed the object will be directly in front of you.
  • When the other eye is closed, the object will shift.

The dominant eye is revealed when your hand is directly in front of you. My dominant eye is the left eye which comes as no surprise to me. I have always been a right brain (big picture) person.

My eye classes prescription for long distance sight is stronger for my right eye and weaker for my dominant eye. Makes sense, eh?

What is the big deal here with whether one eye is dominate or not? Put a patch over your dominant eye, then challenge yourself with tossing a ball to another person. Having trouble? Then catch the ball. Having trouble? It is not so easy when your dominant eye is patched closed

Wobbly walking involving freezing and shuffling can be due in part to a stark difference between your dominant eye and your other eye. Equalizing out both eyes can boast rock solid walking.

Neuro-Optometrists can be of great assistance in this regard.

For more information about neuro optometry visit: https://noravisionrehab.org/

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com

Swallowing Safely

Difficulty with swallowing safely is a typical symptom of Parkinson’s. How do you know for sure that you have a swallowing problem and if you do, what do you do about it?

Dr. Joel Herskowitz, M.D. and Dr. Roya Sayadi, Ph.D., authors of the just released book, Swallow Safely: How Swallowing Problems Threaten the Elderly and Others. A Caregiver’s Guide to Recognition, Treatment, and Prevention answer these questions and explain the critical role of swallowing safely for persons with Parkinson’s symptoms.

You can order Swallow Safely by clicking on Swallow Safely

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease
https://www.parkinsonsdisease.me

Remarkable Story of Recovery

I extend a warm invitation to listen to a remarkable story of recovery documented in my interview with Sue. She provides a thorough and heart warming account of her rocky journey down the road to recovery from the symptoms of Parkinsons disease. Learn all about the therapies and modalities that supported  her ability to recover.

This interview was done 16 years ago, but all of the information Sue offers about her recovery is what we know today helps manifest a successful recovery.  Also take note of the fact while Sue celebrated a successful recovery, there was no simple or easy solution that made her recovery possible.

Parkinsons Recovery® challenges the false belief that Parkinson’s is a degenerativeremarkable story of recovery “disease” by documenting cases of individuals who have made remarkable recoveries. Some of the recoveries are complete in the sense that the person is symptom free today. Other recoveries are partial in the sense that the person has seen remarkable improvements. Both recovery experiences cases are documented in Pioneers of Recovery.

Once anyone realizes that people can and do recover, it is much easier to fully and completely believe in your heart mind and soul that the body really does knows how to heal from the inside out. This is the belief Sue strongly embraced.

Are you serious about wanting to get relief from your symptoms? Sue Richards used a walker last year. She walks without a walker today. How did she accomplish this remarkable feat?

Sue provides a rich accounting of  her remarkable story of recovery as she traveled down the road to recovery. You might want to take notes as she provides a thorough accounting of the therapies that helped her celebrate sustained relief from her symptoms.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
Parkinsons Recovery
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease
https://www.parkinsonsdisease.me 

Healing Parkinsons Comprehensively

How do you go about healing Parkinsons comprehensively? Admittedly that sounds overwhelming. I mean, to resolve troublesome symptoms you have to do more than take medicines or supplements?

My answer is unequivocally yes. Addressing the physical manifestations of Parkinsons is only the first step. If you stop with the physical you may be able to stop symptoms from getting worse, but they will not get better.

What else is required? To heal from the inside out you have to address the unconscious emotions that fuel the symptoms. I am guessing half of my readers will stop reading my post now. Who wants to re-surface unpleasant and difficult emotions? No one.

But if you do not, you will not get very far as you travel down the road to recovery.

I have a suggestion for you today that does not involve (necessarily) getting help from health care professionals trained to assist you with releasing buried emotions that are not in your best and highest good. My idea is to take simple, small steps to release the emotions that fuel Parkinson’s symptoms. What are these steps?

The Olga Phoenix Project has developed a Self-Care Wheel you can download directly from their website:

https://www.olgaphoenix.com

The self-car wheel offers simple suggestions for addressing all of the underlying issues that sustain symptoms which involve the physical (of course), psychological. emotional, spiritual, personal and professional. The suggestions that accompany each category are simple, straightforward and doable. They are also fun to engage.

Here are some examples:

  • Psychological: Go to a symphony or ballet
  • Emotional: Watch a funny movie
  • Spiritual: Play with children
  • Personal: Get coffee with a friend
  • Professional: Take time for lunch
  • Physical: Turn off your cell phone

The suggestions listed above are one example from many you will find on the self-care wheel. The bottom line is that you must take care of yourself to celebrate a successful journey down the road to recovery.

Summary

Download the Self-Care Wheel. Take action on at least one suggestion a day selected from any of the categories.

You will have a daily reminder that healing Parkinsons comprehensively is a prerequisite to celebrating a successful journey down the road to recovery.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery®
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease
https://www.parkinsonsdisease.me

GDNF for Parkinsons

GDNF for Parkinsons is an infusion of recombinant proteins that support neuron survival and growth. GDNF is a powerful treatment for Parkinsons because it supports the survival of motor and dopaminergic neurons.

You cannot find buy GDNF (Glial-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) as an over the counter supplement. It is a large protein that does not cross the blood-brain barrier easily. You will be able to find natural compounds and herbs as supplements that are designed to boost the body’s production of GDNF. These include, for example, Ashwagandha, Green Tea, Ginseng and Vitamin D3 (the sunshine vitamin).

The most effective and reliable way to infuse the brain with GDNF is with regular exercise. This in large part is why so many persons who have Parkinson’s symptoms discover regular exercise to be a most effective way to celebrate symptom relief. Supplements formulated to encourage the body to manufacture GDNF are not needed with a regular exercise regimen.

The study abstract that follows recommends using a combined approach of multimodal exercises to include 1. resistance 2. aerobic and 3. balance is recommended as the most effective strategy for facilitating the natural production of GDNF by the body

Int J Prev Med. 2025 May 28:16:35. The Effect of Multimodal Exercise on the Levels of BDNF and GDNF in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease.

Abstract

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) leads to a significant decrease in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). This study explores the effect of 12 weeks of multimodal exercise on the levels of BDNF and GDNF in patients with PD.

Methods: The study is a quasiexperimental study with random sampling. It was conducted in 2024 at Isfahan. Demographic data were collected using a demographic questionnaire. Thirty patients were randomly divided into two equal groups of multimodal exercise and control, with no significant differences in age, weight, and height. The variables of BDNF and GDNF were assessed in pre- and post-tests. Multimodal exercise was performed 5 days a week for 12 weeks. Data were analyzed using covariance and t-test at a significant level of P < 0.05.

Results: The study observed significant differences in BDNF and GDNF, among two groups of PD (P < 0.01). Moreover, the levels of BDNF and GDNF were significantly higher in the PD + Training group compared to the PD group (P < 0. 01).

Conclusions: Given that multimodal exercises are effective in increasing BDNF and GDNF in individuals with PD, it is recommended to incorporate the benefits of these exercises into physical rehabilitation programs. Therefore, the combined approach of multimodal exercises (resistance, aerobic, and balance) is recommended as the most effective complementary therapeutic strategy for PD.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease

Homeopathy Remedies for Parkinsons

Homeopathy remedies for Parkinsons and other diseases is a system of health care developed by the German physician Samuel Hahnemann in the 1700’s. The heart of the approach is to treat illness with “similars.” The name homeopathy is taken from the Greek “homoeo” meaning “similar” and “pathos” which means suffering.

Curing disease with “similars” predates homeopathy by several centuries. It is a tried and true approach to treating troublesome symptoms. Homeopathy was the front line medical treatment used up until the early 1900’s in the United States when allopathic medicine became the accepted approach to the practice of medicine. Allopathic treatments focus on prescription medications formulated to suppress symptoms for specific disease states.

Symptoms that manifest in a healthy individual who takes a remedy are precisely the same symptoms that the same substance will resolve in an ill person. Discovering the perfect homeopathic remedy for Parkinsons that addresses a patient’s needs on all levels – mentally, emotionally and physically – is the art practiced by homeopathic physicians.

Practitioners select treatments according to observations they have of a patient through consultations that explore both the physical issues as well as emotional
issues that fuel the symptoms.

Five considerations influence us in the choice of the dose:

  • Susceptibility of the patient.
  • Seat of the disease.
  • Nature and intensity of the disease.
  • Stage and duration of the disease.
  • Previous treatment of the disease.

Remedies are prepared from plant, animal and mineral substances. Homeopaths select remedies for a patient from several thousand that are available.

The rule of all homeopathic remedies is the greater the dilution of the remedy, the higher the potency. Less is always better. Many people believe more is always better which defeats the effectiveness of homeopathic medicine.

Homeopathy medicine heals from the inside out. The “Law of Cure” states that symptoms shift from the innermost organs to outer organs. Symptoms that have been suppressed often resurface during the healing journey.

Sometimes the results are quick as unconscious beliefs that cause symptoms are brought to the surface and released. Other times benefits of the treatments are slow to manifest. The process of healing is often referred to as healing an onion as layer after layer of what causes symptoms are pealed off.

You will likely have little success purchasing off the shelf homeopathic remedies. Best approach is to employ a homeopathic health care practitioner. Click on the menu listing “Find a Homeopath” on the website listed below to locate a homeopathic physical in your area.
www.homeopathy.org

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery
https://www.parkinsonsrecovery.com
Olympia, Washington

Solutions for Gait Problems

Looking for better mobility? Michael Protzel has some marvelous solutions for gait problems.

Innate human coordination requires being in sync with the straigh-down influence of gravity. This enables us to tap the substantial energy generated by the downward movement of our body mass.

In infancy, we all learn this highly evolved skill as we teach ourselves to sit, stand and walk with grace and power. Early in childhood, however, through deep cultural conditioning, we forget.

From the day we are born, we see everyone around us sitting back in chairs, sofas, car seats, etc. At around 3 or 4, we get sucked into this utterly normal, but mal-adaptive behavior. We begin sitting-back with staggering repetition. In so doing, we interfere with gravity’s influence by sending our body mass down on a backwards trajectory.

Our brains automatically react — with muscular strain and skeletal distortion — to keep our head/neck functionally vertical. We don’t notice these reactions nor feel anything unusual. It all happens subconsciously. This kinesthetic disconnect spills over into how we stand and walk.

The consequences are all around us: society-wide epidemics of bad posture, lower back and neck pain, knee and hip replacements. For people with Parkinsons, the consequences are even more severe, restricting free movement considerably.

This can be changed — through re-developing sensitivity to our downward-moving body mass and how it is affecting us moment-by-moment. I strongly recommend you gisit Michael’s website. He has a gold standard free course that provides eloquent solutions for gait problems. www.uprighting.com

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Health Affirmations for 2026

 

Many people who currently experience the symptoms associated with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease focus their primary attention on therapies that have helped other people in similar circumstances reverse their own symptoms. They have set in motion their own health affirmations.

Such a strategy of recovery can be invigorating and yield exciting victories. There may however be an undercurrent process which ultimately undermines your success with reclaiming your health. What in the world might this be?

Most people do not acknowledge that there is often an unconscious process that undermines a positive intention to heal. Since the process is entirely unconscious it is hidden and thus impossible to detect. Why might a person’s subconscious be undermining their positive intent to recover?

There are many reasons of course, but the person is getting something out of being sick that they would not get if they were well. Perhaps they are getting disability payments or special attention from family and friends. Perhaps they finally have a perfectly justifiable excuse to quit a job they have never liked doing. If a person is getting something out of being sick, it will be virtually impossible to heal.

I believe that everyone has unconscious processes at work. We all wind up sabotaging our best and highest intentions at one time or another. I know I do. The first step in paving a clear and unobstructed pathway down the road to recovery is to acknowledge that unconscious processes do exist that undermine our good intentions. The second step is to take a minute out of every day to state your intention to recover with a clear and loud voice.

My suggestion is to print out the health affirmations below, attach them to your refrigerator and say them out loud each and every day for 40 days.

My intention is to maintain health and wellness for myself.

I admire and model people who are healthy.

Health makes life more enjoyable.

I am healthy when I do what I love.

I deserve to be healthy because I add value to other people’s lives.

I receive compliments and gifts from others with an open heart.

I am grateful for the health I have now.

Opportunities to reverse any and all symptoms always come my way.

My capacity to reclaim full health and wellness expands each and every day.

If there is no unconscious current which is undermining your recovery, the task of  saying the statements above for 40 days will strengthen your intention and facilitate your recovery. If, on the other hand, there is an unconscious process at play which is undermining your good intention to reverse symptoms, you will not succeed in saying the statements out loud for 40 days. You might succeed for 30 days – but suddenly you skip a day.

Saying the health affirmations above out loud only takes a minute each day, yet you forget to do it. It was not because you did not have enough time!

When you realize that you “forgot” to state your affirmations, you will know that there must be something that you are getting out of your disease that you are not acknowledging.

And if this is the case, what do you do? Acknowledge that there must be part of you that does not want to get well. It is no big deal. We all sabotage ourselves in one way or another. The most important step is to acknowledge it.

Then, simply begin saying your affirmations again starting with day one. See if you get through 40 days without missing a day. If you succeed, celebrate your success with paving an unobstructed road to recovery. If you forget again, start the 40 ritual again. Maybe three times will be a charm.

If three times is not a charm, why not simply accept the reality that you are getting something out of being sick that may actually be worth all the trouble?

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery
Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease
https://www.parkinsonsdisease.me

Massage for Parkinsons

Is there any evidence or information about the benefits of massage for Parkinsons?

John

What a large question which consumes one tiny sentence! I talk with people with Parkinsons who get massages regularly to help them release stress. To the extent that any therapy helps you release trauma and stress, you can rest assured your symptoms will become less bothersome.

Keep in mind that massage is a general term for many different therapies. People have told me that deep tissue massage is not helpful. The reason? I suspect that it is much too invasive. The body clamps down muscles in response to the intrusion.

If massage is coupled with energy healing (reiki, healing touch, energy healing), the therapist is much more likely to be gentle with the body’s response to the treatment as they invite the trauma and stress to be released. In my own experience. everything depends on the therapist.

I would say this very simply: There is a massage therapist out there in the universe who can be of benefit to you. Your job is to find them. You will know them when you get a first treatment.

So, even if you experiment with a massage and feel it did not help, stay on the lookout for someone else to get a treatment from. You will recognize the right person for you when you see them.

The bottom line is this: If the massage is intended to relax you – it will have benefits. If the massage is intended to release stress and trauma – it too will have benefits.

There is another benefit as well. Asking someone to help you is very therapeutic. I believe we can’t heal ourselves from the traumas of life. We have to ask for help from others. Besides, it is a great gift to give yourself.

Edgar Cayce recommended massage often in his consultations with persons diagnosed with Parkinsons. He recommended these oils be used with massages: cedar wood, sassafras, pine needle, witch hazel and myrrh.

What follows is a brief summary of some of the research and current thoughts about massage:

A study on massage for Parkinsons

Parkinson’s disease symptoms are differentially affected by massage therapy vs. progressive muscle relaxation: a pilot study by Maria Hernandez-Reifa, Tiffany Fielda, Shay Largiea, Christy Cullena, Julia Beutlera, Chris Sandersa, William Weinerb, Dinorah Rodriguez-Batemanb, Lisette Zelayab, Saul Schanberc, Cynthia Kuhnc

Abstract

“Sixteen adults diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (M age=58) received 30-min massage therapy or progressive muscle relaxation exercise sessions twice a week for 5 weeks (10 sessions total).

Physicians rated participants in the massage therapy group as improved in daily living activities by the end of the study. The massaged group also rated themselves as improved in daily functioning, and having more effective and less disturbed sleep. Urine samples revealed that at the end of the 10 sessions, the massage therapy group had lower norepinephrine and epinephrine (stress hormone) levels, suggesting they were less stressed.

The progressive muscle relaxation group had higher dopamine levels, which is interesting in that Parkinson’s is associated with a decrease in dopamine. The relaxation group also showed higher epinephrine levels, suggesting that although the relaxation exercises might have been beneficial, some Parkinson’s participants might have found the relaxation technique stressful.”

Age Ageing. 2016 Mar;45(2):299-303. Abdominal massage for the alleviation of symptoms of constipation in people with Parkinson’s: a randomized controlled pilot study

Abstract

Background: constipation is one of the most common non-motor features of Parkinson’s affecting up to 90% of patients. In severe cases, it can lead to hospitalisation and is usually managed with laxatives which in themselves can lead to side effects. Abdominal massage has been used as adjunct in the management of constipation in various populations, but not in those with Parkinson’s.

Objective: the primary objective was to test the recruitment, retention and the appropriateness of the intervention methods and outcome measures.

Methods: thirty-two patients with Parkinson’s were recruited from three movement disorder clinics and were randomised to receive either 6 weeks of daily abdominal massage plus lifestyle advice on managing constipation (Intervention Group, n = 16) or lifestyle advice (Control Group, n = 16). Data were collected prior to group allocation (Baseline), at Week 6 (following intervention) and 4 weeks later (Week 10). Outcome tools included the Gastrointestinal Rating Scale and a bowel diary.

Results: constipation has a negative impact on quality of life. The study recruited to target, retention was high and adherence to the study processes was good. The massage was undertaken as recommended during the 6 weeks of intervention with 50% continuing with the massage at 10 weeks. Participants in both groups demonstrated an improvement in symptoms, although this was not significantly different between the groups.

Conclusion: abdominal massage, as an adjunct to management of constipation, offers an acceptable and potentially beneficial intervention to patients with Parkinson’s.

This website specifically addresses the benefits of massage for Parkinsons:

http://www.integrative-healthcare.org/mt/archives/2007/03/parkinsons_dise.html

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Let me Be Your Mentor for 2026

Give Yourself The Christmas Gift That Will Last a Lifetime

Make 2026 Your Best Year Ever. Imagine How Differently You will Feel After Working 1 on 1 With Me For One Full Year when we join together all the pieces of a successful recovery.

Introducing my One on One  Mentorship Program – Your Personal Roadmap to Recovery from neurological challenges.

 My mentoring program is all about having the right plan of recovery customized specifically for your unique situation as you celebrate relief from Parkinsons with natural therapies and methods.

Important Note

Because I work intensively with each person one on one, I can offer this opportunity to only 5 individuals.

What is Included

1. Initial strategy session with me personally to flesh out the potential causes of your symptoms so we can identify therapies and treatment that will successfully address them. This is not some surface-level consultation. It is a deep dive into your specific history and situation. We evaluate what you have tried that did not succeed and what did help. We consider new options.  

2. Together we lay out a custom-crafted program of recovery created specifically for your situation.

3. With bimonthly meetings (with a video type interface similar to Zoom), we review, update and revise your program of recovery throughout the year. 

  • We review your progress since our last session
  • Identify and solve any roadblocks you’ve encountered
  • Refine strategies based on real-world results documented by research
  • Help keep you on track with taking the actions you’ve committed to
  • Accelerate your progress with new insights and opportunities

4. Unlimited email access to me personally

  • We review your progress since our last session
  • Identify and solve any roadblocks you’ve encountered
  • Refine strategies based on real-world results documented by research
  • Help keep you on track with taking the actions you’ve committed to
  • Accelerate your progress with new insights and opportunities

Why do I offer this 1 on 1 mentoring in 2026? 

First – After nearly 22 years of researching the causes of neurological conditions and the natural therapies that can reverse them,  I have reached a point where my greatest satisfaction in life comes from seeing more and more individuals transform their health.

Second – The individuals I have mentored over the years become my greatest success stories.

To enroll in this 2026 one on one mentorship program, visit the registration link below. We can schedule the first session before the new year or later. If 5 people have already registered, enrollment will be closed.  

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