| During Parkinson’s, cells in the parts of the brain that control movement and regulate mood are gradually destroyed. The primary defect in Parkinson’s is a loss of dopaminergic neurons (such as dopamine-producing neurons) in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that modulates movement (Purves D et al 2001). In Parkinson’s disease, the dopamine-producing nerve cells are destroyed by high levels of oxidative damage (Atasoy HT et al 2004; Ross GW et al 2004). There is evidence that this oxidative damage is, in turn, caused by defects in the cells’ mitochondria, or power-generating centers. Vitamin C may relieve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease by neutralizing dopamine free radicals (Sakagami H et al 1998) and toxic quinones released from dopamine metabolism (Pardo B et al 1995), thereby protecting brain cells from levodopa-induced damage (Mytilineou C et al 1993). In the laboratory, bathing nerve cells in vitamin C enhanced dopamine synthesis (Seitz G et al 1998). Bioflavonoids, which provide the red, pink, and purple colors in fruits and vegetables, are even stronger antioxidants than vitamin C. Most are water soluble and easily penetrate the brain. Suggested antioxidant supplements include grape seed extract. The herbal compound Ginkgo biloba contains numerous antioxidants, including proanthocyanins and flavonoids, which help maintain healthy brain function, circulation, and metabolism. Polyphenols are antioxidants found in green tea, which are being investigated for their potential to protect against Parkinson’s disease (Weinreb O et al 2004). Polyphenols are also found in extracts of grape seeds and other plants. Like the bioflavonoids, they are powerful antioxidants. They may also inhibit the nerve cell damage in diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. | Join us for a Free Webinar on February 16! 
Please join Life Extension's webinar highlighting Four Steps for Every Diabetic and the reason why everyone needs to be concerned about blood sugar. Exciting new innovations will be presented by Michael Smith, MD. Title: Four Steps for Every Diabetic
Date: Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM ET Space is limited. Reserve your Webinar seat now at: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/728842546 After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Webinar. System Requirements:
PC-based attendees
Required: Windows® 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server
Macintosh®-based attendees
Required: Mac OS® X 10.4.11 (Tiger®) or newer |
