Parkinson's disease is a neurological condition that affects coordination, speech and movement. The risk of developing Parkinson's disease increases with age, but it is possible for younger people to develop the disorder. Parkinson's disease occurs when brain cells that produce dopamine, a chemical that aids coordination and body movements, become damaged or die. There is no cure for Parkinson's disease, but several drugs, including dopamine agonist and monoamine oxidase type inhibitors, can help to slow progression of the disease. If you have Parkinson's disease, you may find certain vitamins beneficial. However, you should consult your doctor before taking vitamin supplements because of the possibility of interactions with medicines.
Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6 is sometimes used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes. However, UMMC adds that it can interfere with the effectiveness of some Parkinson's disease treatments. For this reason, some doctors recommend B-6 in order to reduce drug-related side effects. Do not attempt to self-treat with vitamin B-6; consult your doctor first. Vitamin B-6 is a water-soluble vitamin that occurs naturally in a variety of foods, including fortified cereals, bananas, oatmeal, chicken and fish. You can also take vitamin B-6 as a dietary supplement, either alone or as part of a vitamin B complex.
Vitamins C and E
Taking high amounts of the anti-oxidant vitamins C and E may delay the need to take medication for Parkinson's disease, UMMC notes, although more research is needed to confirm this benefit. An article published in March 2009 issue of the journal "Free Radical Biology and Medicine" notes that neurological disorders are often characterized by high levels of oxidative stress and that, as an anti-oxidant, vitamin C may have potential therapeutic role against Parkinson's disease. Vitamin C is found in a host of foods including citrus fruits, strawberries and broccoli, while vitamin E can be found in vegetable oils, kiwi fruit and spinach.
Vitamin D
UMMC notes that people with Parkinson's disease often have low levels of vitamin D, which may lead to further health complications such as osteoporosis. If you have Parkinson's disease, talk to your doctor about taking a vitamin D supplement to help prevent further health problems. Vitamin D, often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin," is made by the body when sunlight hits the skin. Food sources include fortified cereals, eggs and oily fish.
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