My grandfather has Parkinsons in its later developments. He’s currently in stoke hospital recovering from a recent fall. He’s pretty much fully recovered now and ready to be released. I am interested in knowing how to raise money for recovery.
Unfortunately his care home wont take him back unless he has a properly fitted chair to get him around without falling over again. The chair costs around £3000 for the type that he needs. I’m trying to find a way to raise this money. I was hoping you might have some ideas as to how I might do it?
Sometimes people need a jump start to begin feeling better. Sounds like your grandfather may need just that. I typically do not work on questions about wheel chairs, since they invite thought forms which are negative and De-energizing. Sounds like in your grandfather’s case, a properly fitted chair might help improve his quality of life significantly so he can begin to feel better.
How to Raise Money for Recovery
I believe the way to approach this type of challenge is to set up an account on a platform that makes it possible for friends and family to donate small amounts of money. A person may well be unable to pay 3000 pounds, but they can probably donate 5 pounds or 10 pounds.
When you set up the invitation to donate on the website, you explain how the funds will be used and invite people to make donations of any size. Many small donations will eventually amount up to 3000 pounds. You will be surprised by how many people will be eager and happy to assist. The money goes for a very worthy cause.
There are various platforms such as Go Fund Me that can be used to raise money for worthy causes such as you describe in your email. This way, friends and family can donate even small sums. It is a marvelous way for them to support any journey down the road to recovery.
Many products sold in grocery stores list “natural flavors” as one of the ingredients. I certainly applaud any ingredient that is natural. but are natural flavors really natural?
Natural Flavor Ingredients
While the source of “natural flavors” must be natural from plant or animals, the final flavoring mixture usually consists of 80% or more “incidental” additives. These can include:
Chemical Solvents
Preservatives
Emulsifiers
Chemicals added to enhance flavor
Carriers like propylene glycol which has been connected to kidney and central nervous system problems
Food manufacturers are not required to list incidental additives on the food’s ingredient panel. They are come under the umbrella of a “natural flavor”. The term in food labels of packaged foods can include a variety of both foods and chemicals. A single natural flavor listing in a product can contain a shocking number of chemical additives.
Summary: As long as the primary flavoring source derives from plant or animal material, the entire mixture can be labeled simply as a “natural flavor.” In some cases the additives will do not harm. In others they will. I personally do not buy any food products that include a “natural flavor” in the ingredient listing.
After reading a number of your helpful articles, I am writing to ask your opinion regarding a difficult case of Parkinson’s disease or similar disorder (as described below, the symptoms and treatments for Parkinsons are somewhat atypical for classical PD).
The person in question, now 63 years old, was diagnosed in mid-2005. The symptoms include right arm/shoulder pain, which has worsened over time, along with a mild tremor in the right hand. This is accompanied by a feeling of internal tremor or other unpleasant sensations which are difficult to describe but are all the same extremely and increasingly difficult to experience, sometimes like a feeling that his entire body is disintegrating (but he is otherwise healthy).
On observation, he has a slow or shuffling gait and decreased facial expression at rest and mild tremor of the right hand, but otherwise few other noticeable signs to indicate PD.
This person has been on Dopicar (L-dopa/carbidopa combination) for over a year, which helped for the first 3-4 months. However, over a short time the beneficial effects of L-dopa have diminished greatly, so that now it sometimes doesn’t help at all, and when it does, only for a very short period of time (an hour or less).
The present dose of L-dopa varies between 300 and 600 mg 2-3 times daily, depending on the particular symptoms and feelings on a given day. When the effect of the L-dopa wears off, the right arm becomes stiff like a log and very painful (worse than before taking it) This means that most of the day he is feeling bad, with little relief from L-dopa.
He has also been taking Azilect with little noticeable benefit. This was stopped recently after hearing John Coleman’s teleconference, but pain and other symptoms have worsened since that time.
My questions are 1) have you ever seen anyone like this who responds very poorly to medications after such a short period of time, and whose primary symptoms are pain and a very unpleasant internal tremor or other sensation, and if so 2) what helped, or what treatment or other plan would you recommend?
At the top of my response to your fascinating question is a brief explanation of my qualifications. It is true that I am a doctor, but I am not a medical doctor. I have a Ph.D. and am a researcher. I need to be clear that I am not a medical doctor and so I am not qualified to diagnose or treat any disease.
I regularly interview people with Parkinson’s (like John Coleman) and conduct interviews with experts in various modalities regularly, so I am in a position to provide insights based on the research I am doing. Please do not interpret anything I might say as medical advice but rather as simply information. It is always important to check with your doctor or health care provider for taking making any changes to a health care program.
Symptoms and Treatments for Parkinsons Questions
Have you ever seen anyone like this who responds very poorly to medications after such a short period of time?
From my research, your report of getting relief from medication after 3-4 months is typical, but at the low end of the range. I do not have enough data now to give you a good estimate, but qualitatively speaking, the average time appears to me to be around 7-8 months. Some people get no relief. Some get good relief for 2 years or more. I hear many reports of good relief for at least 6 months. Everyone is different.
Regardless of the length of the honeymoon, I have not interviewed anyone yet who has been on medication and not had to increase the dose after a period of time. The brief honeymoon suggests to me that the primary cause of symptoms may be rooted in factors that are not directly connected to the level of dopamine in the body.
Have you ever seen anyone like this who whose primary symptoms are pain and a very unpleasant internal tremor or other sensation?
If I have learned anything from my research on symptoms and treatments for Parkinsons, it is that each person’s symptoms are entirely unique to them. I interviewed a man recently whose primary symptom was pain. Internal tremors are very common among the many people I have interviewed. It is a clue that the neurological system is not functioning at full capacity.
You mention that his symptoms have been worse after going off the medication. This too is very typical from the people I interview. Some people who try and stop cold turkey without gradually reducing the dosage wind up eventually deciding to start taking the medication again at an even higher dose.
You can probably expect a period of time for the body to adjust. From my research on symptoms and treatments for Parkinsons, what has happened to him is typical and very difficult to deal with.
You also ask what treatment plan would I recommend.The honest answer to your question is that a person can begin feeling better slowly and gradually when they make certain changes in how they eat and exercise. Finding ways to reduce stress and release trauma have also helped many people.
Finding ways to help the body release toxins has certainly helped many people with Parkinson’s. I am beginning a series of interviews with naturopaths and other doctors who offer different approaches for helping people detox their body. I would recommend that you might consider these many different options and see if one calls to you and him.
Another place to look is his digestive system. Research studies point to the problems with Parkinson’s originate in the gut. My guess would be that his digestive system may be compromised. Ayurveda has offered some people with Parkinson’s wonderful relief. Please note that I say some.
I suggest he experiment. Check out what is working for other people. Try out something that calls to him (a herb, a form of body work, a detox method, etc.). If it begins help, stick with it. If not, turn to something else. The people who are having the greatest success with recovery do just this. They are always experimenting.
I might mention that this is precisely what John Coleman did. He experimented with a number of therapies. Some helped and some did not. He continued with the therapies that were helpful and ditched those which did not help.
Give any option time to take effect. Most people are not aware they are getting better, so they abandon therapies too early because they falsely convince themselves the therapy is not helping. If a therapy like detox is succeeding, a person may feel much worse before they feel better.
We do know now that it takes time for the body to heal from the symptoms of Parkinson’s. The range I now have is a minimum of two years to a maximum of 6 years. Recovery is a slow process.
The one thing that will help him the most is to acknowledge no single therapy, medicine or pill exists that can fix the problem. The causes of the symptoms are far too complicated and delicate for this to be true. It takes a dedicated commitment to give the body all that it needs to heal itself.
Heat seems to bother me. The sun shining on my back/neck or a hair dryer creates a feeling of crawling or shrinking on my neck and head and gives me a slight sensation of nausea and dizziness. Have you heard of this being a problem with Parkinsons or others with neurological problems?
My mouth, throat, and lungs feel dry, dehydrated, and have a burning sensation and when I breathe deep I have a dry cough. Is this a problem related to Parkinsons or do I have a problem on top of a problem? I am in the Californian desert for the winter and the problem seems to be exacerbated.
Nausea and Dizziness
I have not heard reports from people with Parkinson’s that are
specific to the nausea and dizziness symptoms you describe. The
range of symptoms that are associated with Parkinson’s is very
wide indeed. Recent research has focused on digestive issues as a
primary cause of symptoms. You may need to devote some tender
loving care to heal imbalances in your digestive system with close
attention to your food intake.
Sunshine is a key mechanism that helps the body manufacture
Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 provides foundational support for balancing
all other hormones in the body.
I might suggest that with this symptom, your body is giving you a
big clue about the source of hormonal imbalances in your body. You
might put on your detective hat and launch a search for the
underlying cause of the symptom.
Excessive salivation is the more common symptom that is
associated with Parkinsons. By your own description, it sounds
to me like you are seriously dehydrated. It would be worthwhile to
hear an interview I did with Dr. Jaroslav Boublik who specializes
in issues associated with dehydration. He is a researcher who is
one of the developers of the Aquas designed to hydrate the body.
Dr. Boublik explains what happens when the body becomes
dehydrated. You can listen to his interview here.
He explains that as we get older, our thirst reflect becomes
compromised, so we simply do not drink when our body needs
water as was the case when we were young.
Of the two nettlesome symptoms you list, I would make the
dry cough the highest priority. By far, the most common cause of
death for persons with Parkinson’s is pneumonia, so addressing
any issues with the pulmonary function will avert more serious
problems down the line.
The Mitochondrial Theory of Aging posits that aging stems from mitochondrial damage produced during energy metabolism. A vicious cycle results when faulty mitochondria damage DNA, proteins, and lipids. Cellular dysfunction and aging result. Membrane Lipid Replacement helps to reverse the damage to mitochondria due to aging and illnesses like Parkinsons.
Mitochondria are the power house of cells. Ninety percent (90%) of energy is produced by them. They are the primary defense for viruses and toxins. There can be thousands of mitochondria in each cell. Cells in the heart muscle have the most with many as 5,000 in each cell.
Mitochondria are easily stressed given their tiny size and the fact cells are so small to begin with. Effectiveness and survival are easily threatened. This, simply put, shortens life spans and leads to illness and disease.
All mitochondria sustain damage over time. As we enter into the later stages of our lives, damaged mitochondria can no longer provide the energy necessary to maintain memory compared to mitochondria at younger stages of our lives. This explains why fatigue can be a challenge for individuals in the later stages of their life.
A 90-year-old person may have lost up to one-half of the mitochondrial function that they had as a young adult. This means that the brains of older people can tire more easily which results in temporary confusion , memory loss and fatigue.
Exercise helps restore and maintain the integrity of mitochondria. It stimulates the movement of oxygen and nutrients to the brain and ultimately to nerve cells in the brain. However, exercise alone cannot make an old brain young again.
The structure and function of mitochondria can be restored with Membrane Lipid Replacement. a therapy discussed in my interview with Natural Pharmacist Ross Pelton posted above.
Membrane Lipid Replacement is designed to:
1) improve mitochondrial function, (2) reduce fatigue and (3) Increase the bioavailability of nutrients.
For more information and to order from the source Ross mentioned in the video: https://ntfactor.com/ Enter the coupon code healers10 to claim a 10% discount.
For a listing of the many research studies on Membrane Lipid Replacement visit: www.ntfactor.com/research
Research on Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Parkinsons
Membranes (Basel). 2021 Nov 29;11(12):944. Fundamentals of Membrane Lipid Replacement: A Natural Medicine Approach to Repairing Cellular Membranes and Reducing Fatigue, Pain, and Other Symptoms While Restoring Function in Chronic Illnesses and Aging
Abstract
Membrane Lipid Replacement (MLR) uses natural membrane lipid supplements to safely replace damaged, oxidized lipids in membranes in order to restore membrane function, decrease symptoms and improve health.
Oral MLR supplements contain mixtures of cell membrane glycerolphospholipids, fatty acids, and other lipids, and can be used to replace and remove damaged cellular and intracellular membrane lipids. Membrane injury, caused mainly by oxidative damage, occurs in essentially all chronic and acute medical conditions, including cancer and degenerative diseases, and in normal processes, such as aging and development.
After ingestion, the protected MLR glycerolphospholipids and other lipids are dispersed, absorbed, and internalized in the small intestines, where they can be partitioned into circulating lipoproteins, globules, liposomes, micelles, membranes, and other carriers and transported in the lymphatics and blood circulation to tissues and cellular sites where they are taken in by cells and partitioned into various cellular membranes.
Once inside cells, the glycerolphospholipids and other lipids are transferred to various intracellular membranes by lipid carriers, globules, liposomes, chylomicrons, or by direct membrane-membrane interactions. The entire process appears to be driven by ‘bulk flow’ or mass action principles, where surplus concentrations of replacement lipids can stimulate the natural exchange and removal of damaged membrane lipids while the replacement lipids undergo further enzymatic alterations.
Clinical studies have demonstrated the advantages of MLR in restoring membrane and organelle function and reducing fatigue, pain, and other symptoms in chronic illness and aging patients.
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Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med. 2025 Jul 28:a041891. The Mitochondrial Connection in Parkinson’s Disease
Abstract
Mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles with complex structural features that perform several essential cellular functions, including energy production by oxidative phosphorylation, regulation of calcium and lipid homeostasis, and control of programmed cell death.
Given their critical role, alterations in mitochondrial biology can lead to neuronal dysfunction and death. Defects in mitochondrial respiration, especially in oxidative energy production, have long been thought to be implicated in the etiology and pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease.
Given the multifaceted roles of mitochondria in health and diseases, the putative role of mitochondria in Parkinson’s disease likely extends well beyond defective respiration. As such, mitochondrial dysfunction represents a promising target for disease-modifying therapies in Parkinson’s disease and related conditions.
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Discoveries (Craiova). 2016 Feb 18;4(1):e54. Clinical Uses of Membrane Lipid Replacement Supplements in Restoring Membrane Function and Reducing Fatigue in Chronic Diseases and Cancer
Abstract
Membrane Lipid Replacement is the use of functional oral supplements containing cell membrane glycerolphospholipids and antioxidants to safely replace damaged membrane lipids that accumulate during aging and in various chronic and acute diseases. Most if not all clinical conditions and aging are characterized by membrane phospholipid oxidative damage, resulting in loss of membrane and cellular function.
Clinical trials have shown the benefits of Membrane Lipid Replacement supplements in replenishing damaged membrane lipids and restoring mitochondrial function, resulting in reductions in fatigue in aged subjects and patients with a variety of clinical diagnoses.
Recent observations have indicated that Membrane Lipid Replacement can be a useful natural supplement strategy in a variety of conditions: chronic fatigue, such as found in many diseases and disorders; fatiguing illnesses (fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome); chronic infections (Lyme disease and mycoplasmal infections); cardiovascular diseases; obesity, metabolic syndrome and diabetes; neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s disease); neurobehavioral diseases (autism spectrum disorders); fertility diseases; chemical contamination (Gulf War illnesses); and cancers (breast, colorectal and other cancers).
Membrane Lipid Replacement provides general membrane nutritional support during aging and illness to improve membrane function and overall health without risk of adverse effects.
Sharry Edwards pioneered a unique technology that falls within a field of complementary medicine that is called BioAcoustics. This innovative discipline combines Vocal Profiling through voice spectral analysis and the use of low frequency analog sound presentation to assist the body to support optimal form and function. BioAcoustics is to be considered a complementary modality.
Sound Health has discovered that the frequencies contained in the voice are holographic representations of your state of health and wellness. Every muscle, compound, process and structure of the body has a Frequency Equivalent™ that can be mathematically calculated.
Sharry Edwards has discovered that people with similar trauma, illnesses, syndromes, psychologies, diseases, toxins… have similar, if not identical, vocal anomalies.
I thought you could be interested
in seeing a short segment of my
interview with Mary (not her
real name) who offers high
praise for the benefits of exercise. She
reports exercise offers relief from symptoms of
Parkinsons.
Swimming and exercising makes
me feel great. And after I take
glutathione I can walk. I will
go through weeks were I walk
everyday at the park and I swim
and then I go through a week
where I do nothing.
I read on your site, I think it was
one of your newsletters, that
tandem bicycling was great for
Parkinsons patients. So, we
go to the park almost everyday
and rent one of those side by side
tandems. My caregiver drives it
and I pedal along. I walk much
better after that.
I do that everyday that I can. Many times we go down to the beach and rent the three-wheelers. The three-wheelers are helpful.
How much time every day
do you spend on your exercise program?”
Like an hour a day. I had a yoga person tell me that yoga helps also.
You definitely notice exercise offers relief
from symptoms of Parkinsons?
difference? When you exercise
you feel better and when you
do not exercise you feel worse?
Exactly. Definitely.
What follows is a report from Taube about her experience with exercising:
I have been increasing the intensity of my exercising and I am doing incredibly better. I just read a book called Spark by John Rately that talks about what exercising does for the brain. It is worth reading I recommend it highly. After reading the book I started increasing the intensity of my workouts and I think it has made a big impact on my recovery.
I was diagnosed with Parkinsons about a year ago and began treatment with levodopa about 6 months ago. Symptoms have been alleviated. I also began craniosacral therapy for Parkinsons about the same time as the levodopa. So, of course now I cannot tell which has been helpful.
My question however is about the scheduling of craniosacral massage: should I expect to have massage treatments on a periodic basis whenever symptoms worsen or should I schedule sessions on a regular basis regardless of symptoms? In other words, do conditions alleviated by craniosacral massage recur?
Thank you for all you do.
Carol
Decisions about the timing of any treatment – in this case craniosacral therapy – are in large part a function of the purpose you wish the therapy to serve. The answer is actually rooted in the thought which underpins your decision to do the therapy.
Is the purpose to alleviate symptoms? If so, the intent is not to heal the underlying cause of the symptoms. It is probably best to go when pain surfaces or symptoms flare. Recognize here that you are in a negative cycle. You have embraced the thought form that you will not get better, so the best you can do for yourself is to address symptoms as best you can.
As I write this I can feel a very low energy and energy to this plan of action. And, if this is the purpose, you will be seeing a craniosacral therapist for the rest of your life.
Is the purpose to heal the underlying cause of the symptoms? If so, the challenge is to work with a craniosacral therapist so that you can unwind and release the trauma that is trapped at the cellular level in your body. If you set your intention to heal and release the trauma, you will gradually feel better and better, though you may have setbacks here and there as your body adjusts.
Once the trauma is released and the tension in the body has been unwound, you do not have to continue getting regular treatments. Only if you are re traumatized will additional treatments be necessary.
This needs to be a gentle and gradual process, with no reason to rush or nudge it forward faster than your body can tolerate. As I write this paragraph, I can feel a very high level of energy and hope exudes every cell of my body.
How often should you go? Your body will give you the answer. Just ask it.
When it comes to decisions regarding craniosacral therapy for Parkinsons, the answer depends on the thought form that is motivating the interest in doing the therapy. Is the
expectation to supress the symptoms temporarily as is the case with medications or is
the expectation to heal the trauma that lies at the foundation of the disease.
I know stress and Parkinsons disease is a major player in my symptoms. I have chronic pain and suffering from a surgery to my face that developed into what is referred to as a central pain disorder. Meaning, the central nervous system has become involved. I think it interesting that where this takes place is in the vicinity of the Substantia Nigra area of the brain where Parkinson’s develops. I’ve always thought there might be a connection.
I take 2 anti-epileptic (dangerous) drugs in order to function but this still leaves me with unbelievable discomfort that registers on my consciousness at all times. This, I see, as one of my greatest challenges to any kind of recovery. The others are :
Subtle stress in most everything I do (I just realized this) and
Negative thought patterns even though I see myself as a positive person.
I had childhood trauma and trauma as a young woman. I developed an autoimmune disease at age 22 that most often is not manifested in anyone younger than 50. I attribute this to a sensitive body that could not handle the devastation of estrogen packed birth control pills manufactured in the early 70’s.
Anita
My research concurs with both of your observations. Reducing anxieties and transforming negative thoughts offer welcome relief from symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Stress and Parkinson’s Disease
After conducting extensive research on methods that quiet symptoms, I have concluded that there is one step that helps the most. When anxiety and anxiety attacks are shut down, symptoms are significantly reduced. When anxiety flares its ugly head, symptoms become problematic. This is why I developed a three month online course to shut down anxiety so that symptoms become far less problematic.
My online course Shut Down Anxiety introduces methods, strategies and techniques that have been proven by research and practice to reduce anxiety. They turn down the volume of the overactive flight-fight sympathetic nervous system that inflames neurological difficulties.
I did not invent these techniques. They have been extracted and simplified from an extensive body of contributions by experienced practitioners and researchers. So, check out the online course and begin taking action on the methods suggested. They really will make a huge difference. Enrollment in the course is available here: Shut Down Anxiety.
Negative Thoughts Fuel Symptoms
The first online course I created focused on the transformation of thoughts that are not in our best and highest good. An explanation of the course and enrollment is available at: Five Steps to Recovery.
Stress and Parkinson’s Disease Summary
Of course symptoms of Parkinson’s can be suppressed with medications and supplement. A more direct approach that does not trigger the cost of side effects is to Shut Down Anxiety which it flares up. It also pays handsomely to transform negative thoughts that road block any recovery program by taking Five Steps to Recovery.
Many people who experience symptoms of Parkinsons Disease engage an aggressive search for ways to reverse them. Secrets to healing are somewhere “out there” in the universe.
The belief is that most of the good answers are difficult to find. The journey for the right answers is much like a treasure hunt for a treasure that is buried in a secret vault – a Fort Knox of sorts that locks up all the answers for reversing Parkinson’s symptoms.
Sometimes the journey involves finding one solution after another. When one solution fails to produce desired results, a new solution or therapy is pursued. Some people chase after dozens of therapies. Results are often disappointing time and time again. The search for answers “out there” is exhausting!
Research can and does make a difference. Being better informed can and does make a difference to recovery. That is why I maintain the massive body of resources on options for recovery on the many Parkinsons Recovery websites I maintain.
There is a downside to a search “out there” somewhere for answers. It activates a continuous infusion of adrenaline. Adrenaline rushes are stimulating. They energize the body into action. The downside to adrenaline rushes is that the body has no energy or resources to produce dopamine. What is needed to reverse symptoms is to maintain a delicate balance of dopamine and adrenaline.
Recovery is Always Moving Toward You
There is a companion approach to a search for answers that offers the promise of marvelous results. Think about recovery as an opportunity that is always moving toward you. It is not something you have to discover by searching long and hard in places far away.
One of the seven secrets to healing a chronic illness like Parkinson’s disease is to listen to the messages your body is always trying to communicate to you. The body has a memory of the perfect state of wellness and health. Disease is not the body’s natural state. Health is. the body is always striving to reverse any disease process that causes neurological symptoms.
Your body is giving you important information every day. Perhaps your intuition tells you to stop dying your hair or stop using a particular shampoo or stop using laundry detergent that is toxic. Perhaps you always tend to discount the instincts about recovery that you get every day. When you begin to trust these instincts you may marvel at how much better you begin to feel.
Finding natural ways to die your hair is not a solution that is “out there.” It is right here!
Finding a natural shampoo without toxins is not a mysterious solution that is “out there” somewhere. It is right here!
Changing your laundry detergent is not a task that can be performed only by a rocket scientist.
You can do it – right now.
The reality is that recovery is staring you in the face every day. Your job is simple. Pay attention. Act on any and all intuitions that you get when you listen to your body.
The body has all the resources it needs to maintain the delicate balance of adrenaline and dopamine. You usually have to make some life style changes to give the body the support it needs. When the body has the resources it needs to maintain balance, symptoms will melt like an ice cream cone on a hot summer day.
The answers have been staring you in the face all along. They are not “out there.” They have always been moving toward you.
Click the arrow below to hear my interview with Bill McAnalley PhD who discusses why food can fix things that drugs cant. His discussion focuses on explaining the causes of Parkinson’s and lists the foods needed to treat each cause.
Information about Dr. McAnballey’s company, is accessed by visiting Aroga
Below are the talking points that Dr. McAnalley prepared for my interview with him on Parkinsons Recovery Radio where he explains why food can fix things drugs cant
Parkinson’s disease (PD), characterized with bradykinesia, static tremor, rigidity and disturbances in balance, is the second most common neuro-degenerative disorder. Alzheimer disease is first.
With the global trends in aging, the incidence of PD has increased year by year and the prevalence rate is up to 12% among the elderly over the age of 65 years. So far, there is still no exact cure for PD due to its diversity of etiology and complexity of symptoms.
Currently, Parkinson’s disease is treated with Levodopa and maybe Monamine, Oxidase Inhibitors (MOAs) or Acetylcholine inhibitors. Levodopa makes more Dopamine available for the dopamine receptor, MOAs increase the amount norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin at their prospective receptors and acetylcholine inhibitors make more acetylcholine available to its receptor.
None of which address the physical cause of the disease.
The cause of PD has not been completely elucidated, but it has been generally acknowledged that the improvement of oxidative stress is one of the most important patho-physiological mechanisms.
Dr. Bill’s research has focused on stopping the causes of diseases like Parkinsons by:
The inhibition of oxidative stress:
PD patients are in a state of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is caused by the increase of free radicals in the organism, while the ability to eliminate free radicals is decreased at the same time. A large amount of lipid peroxide, such as Malondialdehyde (MDA), hydroxyl, carbonyl, etc., will cause cell death, which leads to neuronal apoptosis ultimately.
The mitochondria is the power plant and energy conversion station of cells. It also regulates the process of gene expression and apoptosis. Recent reports have suggested that mitochondrial dysfunction is closely related to a variety of neuro-degenerative diseases including PD.
The reduction of toxic Excitatory Amino Acids (EAA):
Glutamate (Glu), Also, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and enkephalin can can produce excitotoxicity effects on nerve cells. Glutamate creates an excitatory effect on nerve cells, and is toxic when Dopa Amine neurons are fully or partially degenerated.
The inhibition of neuroinflammation:
Neuroinflammation is a common and important pathological mechanism in nervous system diseases and different neurological diseases are involved in neuroinflammation at some stage. At present, it is believed that neuroinflammation was involved in an important cascade reaction in neuronal degeneration of PD.
When the central nervous system suffers from exogenous antigens stimulus, such as pathogenic microorganisms or foreign bodies, microglia will be rapidly activated. Then, the activated microglia cells can secrete various cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, etc. The cytokines cause neuroinflammation.
The inhibition of neuronal apoptosis:
Parkinsons is caused by the premature death of dopaminergic neurons by abnormal apoptosis activation. Energy for normal activities of brain cells comes directly from aerobic energy, and there is little energy storage. However once brain damage occurs, it will cause nerve cell apoptosis or death.
The Bcl-2 family of proteins regulate apoptosis. It is divided into two categories:anti-apoptosis gene (such as Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, Bcl-w, Bcl-1, etc.) and pro-apoptosis gene (such as Bax, Bak, Bad, Bid, etc.). Their ratio regulates apoptosis.
The inhibition of abnormal protein aggregation:
Mis-folded and aggregated proteins play a key role in the pathogenesis of Parkinsons Disease. Protein aggregates differ from disease to disease. This common characteristic shows that protein deposition is toxic to neurons.
Studies confirmed that the activity of the proteasome dropped substantially in substantia nigra of patients with PD, which weakened the ability of the substantia nigra to degrade α-syn and other proteins.
Targeting Nrf2 to Suppress Ferroptosis and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Neurodegeneration:
Nrf2 is a basic leucine zipper (bZIP) protein that regulates the expression of antioxidant proteins that protect against oxidative damage triggered by injury and inflammation. Several drugs that stimulate the NFE2L2 pathway are being studied for treatment of diseases that are caused by oxidative stress.
Listing of Foods that Can Fix Things Drugs Cant
The inhibition of oxidative stress:
Brahmi, Bacopa monnieri
Maca root powder, Lepidium meyenii (Walp.)
Tongkat Ali (Longjack), Eurycoma Longifolia
Turmeric root powder, Curcuma longa
The reduction of toxic Excitatory Amino Acids EAA:
This is a detailed report from responses provided by persons with Parkinson’s symptoms who responded to the 2024 Parkinsons Recovery Survey. The two minute survey asks two questions.
First, how have respondents been feeling since the previous holiday season one year ago (better, same, worse)
Second, what therapies have offered them symptom relief.
Listen to my reading of responses that reveal a huge range of therapies, methods and activities that offer symptom relief.
Bottom line: Many people believe that all persons diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease are destined to degenerate over time. As with the results of previous years, findings from 2024 soundly refute this false belief.
When a symptom flares its ugly head and makes us feel horrible, we all would like to celebrate relief from it, even if for only a few hours. The question everyone wants the answer to is: what is wrong with me? My answer to this question will likely surprise you.
There are over 160 medical specialties and subspecialties in the United States. If you want a name for the troubling symptom you confront, which of the 160 medical specialties can answer your question? Your general practitioner will help sort this out for you and make a referral.
The visit to the medical specialty referral will likely yield a name for your condition and medicines to treat it. This may well offer welcome relief, but sometimes not. If not. a second referral is needed, then perhaps a third and a fourth, all of which reveal different names (and diagnoses) for your condition.
And please give the medical professionals a break. They are viewing your condition from a very focused lens given their specialty. They are taking into consideration only one of many systems in the body that keep us alive and well.
I for one prefer a different approach. Support the body’s ability to heal from the inside out with natural therapies and methods, regardless of what symptoms might present right now.
Instead of suppressing a symptom caused by a presumably “flawed” body, honor the ability of the body to return to a balance of balance and harmony.
What is my answer to the question posed in this post? Watch the video.
Below is an email I received from Brad which offers a fresh perspective on the meaning associated with neurological symptoms.
I got “PD’ed” at church today. I was a visitor and had no sooner entered than I was greeted by a young man with very obvious Down Syndrome. He instantly spotted my shaking hand and said with a big smile,
“Don’t worry, you don’t have to be nervous, it’s only Ash Wednesday. Or perhaps you’re very excited because you have such a beautiful wife!”
From his perspective there was absolutely nothing “wrong” with me; to the contrary everything was “right” with me. My partner and I agreed that there was a profound lesson to be learned from this man’s innocent and perceptive observation. Brad
Redox signaling is the foundation process that is required to support the health of humans, plants and animals. It is the boost needed for the body to reverse illness and sustain health.
Redox signaling supports the ability of cells to respond appropriately to environmental stimuli. When each cell acts independently of other cells, its ability to avert illness and disease is compromised. Redox cell signaling activates communication among cells to support the body’s ability to reverse illness and maintain balance and harmony.
Redox cell signaling …
Does no harm
Contains no toxins
Wakes up sleepy cells
Helps un-poison the body
Activates a natural process of healing
Has anti-viral properties
Addresses bacterial infections
Facilitate the production of glutathione by the body
Reduces reactions to chronic stress
When confronted with neurological challenges, the allostatic load becomes too great for the body to perform the functions of toxic elimination. All of the body’s elimination organs (eg: liver, kidneys, colon, skin) are confronted with getting rid of more toxins than can be processed out of the body. It is similar to when a dam overflows.
Unable to eliminate toxins, they continue to cumulate. This compromises the body’s ability to rejuvenate and regenerate. With Parkinsons, the allostatic load becomes too overwhelming for the body to perform the essential functions of elimination and renewal.
Redox cell signaling helps lower and overburden flooded with an allostatic load that has maxed out.
Research on Redox Signaling and Parkinsons
Chin Med J (Engl). 2026 Mar 5;139(5):653–671. Role of LRRK2 in physiological activities, diseases, and therapy
Abstract
Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is a critical target for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and potentially other diseases. LRRK2 is involved in intracellular signaling, immune response, and inflammation, with key roles in both the central nervous system and peripheral tissues.
LRRK2 mutations are linked to cellular dysfunction including mitochondrial and neuronal damage and can disrupt signaling pathway balance, thereby contributing to PD and other disorders
Research studies report that a NAD Supplement for Parkinsons can be beneficial. NAD stands for Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide. Studies find that taking a NAD supplement facilitates a more effective detoxification process when compared to conventional methods. By replenishing the body’s NAD levels, toxins are flushed out and brain functions are restored.
The NAD supplement for Parkinsons …
Promotes cellular repair
Supports neuroplasticity
Improves overall functionality of the brain
Enhances memory
Sharpens concentration
Research on NAD Supplement for Parkinsons
Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2025 Dec;36(12):1072-1083. NAD augmentation as a disease-modifying strategy for neurodegeneration
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) pose a significant and rapidly growing global health challenge, but there are no effective therapies to delay or halt progression.
In recent years augmentation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) has emerged as a promising disease-modifying strategy that targets multiple key disease pathways across multiple NDDs, such as mitochondrial dysfunction, energy deficits, proteostasis, and neuroinflammation.
Several early clinical trials of NAD augmentation have been completed, and many more are currently underway, reflecting the growing optimism and urgency within the field. We discuss the rationale and evolving therapeutic landscape of NAD augmentation.
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Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2024 Apr 1;326(4):E417-E427. Evaluation of safety and effectiveness of NAD in different clinical conditions: a systematic review
Abstract
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an essential pyridine nucleotide cofactor that is present in cells and in several important biological processes, including oxidative phosphorylation and production of adenosine triphosphate, DNA repair, calcium-dependent secondary messenger and gene expression.
The purpose of this systematic review is to examine whether the coenzyme formulae NAD+ and NADH are safe and effective when acting as a supplement to humans. This systematic review of randomized clinical trials performed a search in six electronic databases: PubMed, MEDLINE (ovid), Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL (clinical trials), Web of Science, and Scopus. Secondary search included the databases (e.g., Clinical trials.gov, Rebec, Google Scholar – advance). Two reviewers assessed and extracted the studies independently. The risk of bias in studies was performed using version 2 of the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials. This review includes 10 studies, with a total of 489 participants. The studies included different clinical conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), older adults, Parkinson’s disease, overweight, postmenopausal prediabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Based on studies, the supplementation with NADH and precursors was well tolerated and observed clinical results such as, a decrease in anxiety conditions and maximum heart rate was observed after a stress test, increased muscle insulin sensitivity, insulin signaling. Quality of life, fatigue intensity, and sleep quality among others were evaluated on patients with CFS. All studies showed some side effects, thus, the most common associated with NADs use are muscle pain, nervous disorders, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and headaches. All adverse events cataloged by the studies did not present a serious risk to the health of the participants.
Overall, these findings support that the oral administration of NADH can be associated to an increase in general quality of life and improvement on health parameters (e.g., a decrease in anxiety, maximum heart rate, inflammatory cytokines in serum, and cerebrospinal fluid). NADH supplementation is safe and has a low incidence of side effects.
In a study published in 2026 posted below, we have still more evidence for the benefits of exercise for individuals experiencing the neurological challenges of Parkinsons. Results of this study found that an eight-week aerobic resistance training program improved tremor and walking endurance in patients with Parkinson’s symptoms.
NeuroRehabilitation. 2026 Apr 10:10538135261434253. Effects of an 8-Week Combined Aerobic Resistance Training on Motor Function, Functional Mobility, and Metabolic Parameters in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease: A Controlled Study
Abstract
Exercise is increasingly recognized as a key component of Parkinson’s disease (PD) management, but data on short-term combined aerobic-resistance training (ART) on motor and metabolic parameters remain limited.
In this controlled study, 28 patients with PD (median Hoehn & Yahr stage= 2, IQR 1.75-2.0) were allocated to an 8-week supervised aerobic-resistance training ART group (n= 19) or a stretching-only control group (n = 9). Training consisted of two 45-minute sessions weekly. Primary outcomes were MDS-UPDRS-III, Sit-to-Stand Test (STS), and Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT).
Fasting laboratory parameters were exploratory given the small sample size and absence of an a priori power analysis. Between-group post-intervention differences were analyzed using ANCOVA (baseline as covariate); exploratory biochemical outcomes were controlled for multiple comparisons using Benjamini-Hochberg false discovery rate (FDR).
ART improved the MDS-UPDRS-III tremor subscore (p = 0.004) and6MWT distance (p = 0.003), with no significant effects on other motor or functional outcomes. In exploratory laboratory analyses, unadjusted between-group differences were observed for HDL cholesterol (p =0.014), vitamin D3 (p = 0.003), TSH (p = 0.042), and homocysteine (p =0.019); after FDR correction, only vitamin D3 remained significant (qFDR= 0.039). Total cholesterol, LDL, and VLDL showed non-significant decreases.
An eight-week ART program improved tremor and walking endurance inpatients with PD, while other motor outcomes remained unchanged. Exploratory changes in selected biochemical markers were detected (including a decrease in vitamin D3).
The truthful answer to the question “why is Parkinson’s disease increasing” will likely surprise you. Is it because of the increasing toxins in our environment? Not really, but that is certainly a factor. Is it because of contaminated water systems? Not really, but that too is a factor. Enough. The answer is …
If you watched my video, you were likely surprised at my answer. There is typically one and only one answer to the question – what causes Parkinson’s disease. The answer? A lack of dopamine. Everyone knows that, duh.
Take for example the Parkinson’s disease hand tremor. When the right medications or supplements and the right dose for your body that contain L-dopa are taken. the hand tremor is quieted. The L-dopa is converts to dopamine in the body. So maybe the reason Perhaps the answer to Why is Parkinson’s disease is increasing turns on the decreasing supply of L-Dopa?
End of story, right? I say wrong. Parkinson’s disease is caused by a persistent fear people cannot not shake. The fear is familiar to us all: Lack of control over everything and everyone.
Dynamics of the world spin so rapidly these days many people feel they do not control anything – not their pay check, not the addictions of family members, not the untimely deaths of family and friends, not global warming, not …
In the video I explain how to turnaround the feeling of being out of control with an example of how to react when Parkinsons disease hand tremors become problematic. Do we sit on our hands? Do we tuck them in our pocket? There is another approach.
In summary – More and more people are feeling they are out of control which is the simple and obvious reason why Parkinsons disease is increasing.
Twenty years of research and interviews with persons diagnosed with Parkinsons have unearthed a rich set of natural therapies to reverse symptoms. These discoveries are documented in my book Road to Recovery from Parkinsons Disease 2026.
This 2026 book includes the therapies and methods that have enabled others with Parkinsons to celebrate a successful journey down the road to recovery.
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Two L-dopa sources for Parkinson’s disease dopamine are the prescription medication Sinemet and the over the counter supplement Mucuna. Compounding Pharmacist Randy Mentzer answers the following question:
“Can both be taken and if so can there be unwanted side effects?”
Treatment of Parkinson’s disease symptoms often involves taking medications aimed at increasing Parkinson’s disease dopamine levels in the body. Among the various treatment options, Sinemet (a combination of levodopa and carbidopa) is prescribed by doctors to help alleviate motor symptoms by replenishing dopamine.
Patients and practitioners sometimes add mucuna pruriens, a natural supplement, to the treatment regimen. While mucuna does not require a prescription from a doctor it is, like Sinemet, a medicine that contains L-dopa. The body converts the L-dopa to dopamine.
Understanding Sinemet
Sinemet is a prescribed medication for Parkinson’s disease that combines two drugs:
Levodopa: This precursor to dopamine is converted into the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain, which is crucial for regulating movement and coordination.
Carbidopa: This component prevents levodopa from being converted into dopamine before it reaches the brain, which helps to maximize the effectiveness of levodopa and reduce side effects like nausea.
While Sinemet is effective, its impact usually diminishes over time. Patients usually need to take higher and higher doses to achieve the desired result.
Enter Mucuna Pruriens
Mucuna pruriens, often referred to as velvet bean, is a natural source of levodopa. It’s been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is now gaining attention in the context of Parkinson’s disease treatment. The beans of the mucuna plant contain L-dopa, the same compound found in Sinemet.
Potential Benefits of Combining Mucuna with Sinemet for Parkinson’s Disease Dopamine
Enhanced Dopamine Levels: Since mucuna contains l-dopa, it may potentially boost dopamine levels in the brain, complementing the effects of Sinemet. Some studies suggest that mucuna could offer a more rapid or sustained increase in dopamine levels compared to synthetic levodopa.
Reduced Motor Fluctuations: Mucuna might help in smoothing out the “on-off” fluctuations experienced by some Parkinson’s patients on Sinemet alone. The natural levodopa in mucuna might work more consistently to help manage symptoms throughout the day.
Possible Reduction in Side Effects: Some users report fewer side effects with mucuna compared to synthetic levodopa preparations. This could be due to the natural formulation of mucuna.
Considerations and Risks
Lack of Standardization: Unlike prescription medications, the potency and purity of mucuna supplements can vary widely. This lack of standardization means that the exact dose of levodopa can be unpredictable.
Drug Interactions: Mucuna may interact with Sinemet, potentially altering the effectiveness of either medication. It’s crucial to monitor any changes in symptoms and adjust dosages under medical supervision.
Side Effects: While mucuna might have fewer side effects for some, it’s not without risks. Potential side effects include dyskinesia (the side effect Randy mentions in his answer to the question posed to him above), nausea, dizziness, or digestive issues. Always discuss these possibilities with your healthcare provider.
Practical Tips for Combining Mucuna with Sinemet
Consult Your Doctor: Before introducing mucuna into your regimen, have a thorough discussion with your neurologist or primary care physician. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and treatment goals.