Parkinson's & Magnesium

Parkinson's disease is a chronic, degenerative disorder of the nervous system. While Parkinson's is often thought of as a disease of the elderly, it can start at any age, although it can take years for symptoms to manifest. A number of theories have been developed regarding the etiology of Parkinson's, but the exact causes are not yet known. Patients with Parkinson's disease sometimes have low levels of magnesium, but it is unclear whether this is a cause or a symptom of the disorder.

About Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressively debilitating condition characterized by muscle stiffness, tremors, movement difficulties, dementia, speech changes, and loss of automatic movements like smiling, blinking and moving your arms when you walk . Although Parkinson's is thought to have a hereditary component and may be triggered by exposure to certain toxins, the causes aren't entirely understood. Some research indicates that low levels of certain minerals, like magnesium, may play a role in heavy metal deposition in the brain that may precede the degeneration of the central nervous system in Parkinson's disease, according to the Nutritional Magnesium Association.

Heavy Metal Deposition and Parkinson's

Heavy metal deposition, such as aluminum, iron and manganese, can occur due to occupational or environmental exposure to these metals. According to Dr. Keith Scott-Mumby in an article for his website, Alternative-Doctor.com, heavy metal buildup can damage DNA and contribute to the development of certain diseases, like Parkinson's. While exposure to certain metals is an unavoidable part of everyday life, insufficient levels of protective minerals, like magnesium, may play a role in degenerative conditions like Parkinson's disease. In an article for her website, clinical nutritionist Krispin Sullivan points out that low levels of magnesium can contribute to heavy metal deposition in the brain, which can lead to Parkinson's disease. However, the clinical evidence confirming this theory is still developing.

Clinical Evidence

A study published in the October 1962 issue of the "Canadian Medical Association Journal" found the blood magnesium levels of patients with Parkinson's disease was uniformly low. An article published in the March 1995 issue of the international, peer-reviewed journal, "Toxicology," states that heavy metal accumulation plays a significant role in the development of neurological diseases like Parkinson's. Another study, published in the Fall 1992 issue of the journal, "Neurotoxiciology" ties certain aspects of these findings together. This study found that Parkinson's patients have high levels of aluminum and low levels of magnesium in their brains when compared to control participants. However, no studies have been performed to evaluate the benefits of magnesium supplementation on patients with Parkinson's disease.

Considerations

While magnesium deficits appear to play a role in Parkinson's disease, there is not yet any clinical evidence to suggest that magnesium supplementation can have a beneficial impact on this disorder. Inform your doctor if you choose to use magnesium supplements, as magnesium can cause unpleasant side effects and interact with certain medications.