Parkinson’s gut-brain link found

• Recent research suggests a “gut-first hypothesis” or a gut-brain connection in Parkinson’s Disease (PD).
• A study published in the JAMA Network Open found that a history of upper Gastrointestinal Mucosal Damage (MD) was associated with an increased risk of developing PD.
• A cohort study of 9,350 patients with no prior history of PD found that mucosal damage on upper endoscopy was associated with a 76% greater risk of a PD diagnosis.
• PD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia, or slow movement, and postural instability.
• Studies suggest that gastrointestinal dysfunction may precede the onset of motor symptoms, highlighting a complex interplay between the gut and brain in PD.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly constipation, are key indicators of a link between the gut and PD.
• The deficiency of an essential element like dopamine is associated with PD. High levels of dopaminergic neurons are present in the gut.
• The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in deciding mood and having a great influence on the brain. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in gut microbiota, has been implicated in neurological conditions, including PD.
• Gut hygiene is crucial to maintain good gut hygiene, avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, less processed food options, hand hygiene, safe water, and eating home cooked food.