New Research Unveils Connection Between Gut Health and Parkinson’s Disease Risk

Participants with mucosal damage in their gastrointestinal tract were 76% more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease later in life
Participants with mucosal damage in their gastrointestinal tract were 76% more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease later in lifeSCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty


In recent years, the scientific community has increasingly explored the link between gut health and overall well-being. This relationship, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, plays a significant role in how our digestive system influences our cognitive functions. Emerging research suggests that this connection may extend to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease. A new study delves deeper into this connection, specifically focusing on how gastrointestinal (GI) damage might increase the risk of Parkinson's. 


Gut Health and Parkinson’s: What the Study Reveals


A study conducted by the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) in Boston, published in JAMA Network Open , highlights a potential relationship between upper gastrointestinal tract damage and an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. The study analyzed 9,350 patients with no prior history of Parkinson’s disease. Participants, with an average age of 52, underwent upper endoscopies to evaluate their esophagus, stomach, and the initial part of their small intestine, focusing on those who had sustained damage such as ulcers or esophagitis. The results revealed that individuals with mucosal damage—identified as erosions, esophagitis, and peptic ulcers—were 76% more likely to develop Parkinson’s later in life. On average, Parkinson’s symptoms manifested 14.2 years after the initial GI damage.


Medical Professionals Weigh In


Although more research is needed to determine a direct cause-and-effect relationship between gut damage and Parkinson’s, experts believe the findings align with existing knowledge of the gut-brain axis. Dr. Vikram Shivkumar, a neurologist at Orlando Health Neuroscience Institute, explains that the gut-brain axis is a two-way communication network involving the vagus nerve, the immune system, and metabolites from the gut microbiome. "The brain and gut are thought to be connected through a bidirectional pathway," notes Dr. Shivkumar, highlighting how this link can impact neurodegenerative diseases.


It’s important to note that patients with Parkinson’s often experience gastrointestinal symptoms, such as constipation, years before classic symptoms like tremors or muscle rigidity appear. Other digestive issues, including acid reflux, trouble swallowing, bloating, and nausea, may also be connected to the disease, according to Dr. Jennie Stanford, an Obesity Medicine Physician and medical contributor for Drugwatch.


Understanding the Causes of Mucosal Damage


The mucosa is the inner lining of the digestive system that helps protect against harmful substances. Mucosal damage can result from several factors, including chronic stress, infections, an unhealthy diet, and the prolonged use of certain medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers are often linked to this type of damage.


“Reflux can expose parts of the digestive tract to more acid than they can tolerate, leading to erosion,” says Dr. Shivkumar. He adds that bacteria like *Helicobacter pylori*, a common cause of peptic ulcers, can also contribute to mucosal injury. Dr. James Cox, Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine at the Burnett School of Medicine, further elaborates that protective cells in the intestines help prevent harmful toxins from entering the body. If this barrier is weakened by digestive issues like GERD, it can lead to inflammation and more severe damage over time.


Protecting Gut Health: Preventive Measures


Though some risk factors for GI damage are unavoidable, certain lifestyle changes can help maintain and improve gut health. Dr. Stanford emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and stress management. Limiting the use of unnecessary medications, as well as avoiding alcohol and tobacco, are also crucial steps in preserving digestive and cognitive health.


The Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat, unprocessed foods, is frequently recommended for promoting gut health and reducing inflammation. Dr. Cox suggests that this diet, combined with regular primary care visits, can play a key role in maintaining overall wellness and possibly preventing the development of neurodegenerative diseases.



This recent study brings to light the intricate relationship between gut health and neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s. While more research is necessary to fully understand this link, it is clear that maintaining a healthy digestive system plays a significant role in reducing the risk of neurological decline. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, including a nutritious diet and stress management, individuals can enhance their gut health and possibly protect themselves from conditions like Parkinson’s in the future.

Summary:


Association Between Upper GI Mucosal Damage and Parkinson Disease Risk

A cohort study of 9,350 patients without prior Parkinson disease (PD) history found that upper gastrointestinal mucosal damage (MD) identified during endoscopy is linked to a 76% increased risk of developing clinical PD. The research highlights the significance of monitoring patients with MD for potential PD onset, supporting the gut-first hypothesis of PD.

Participants with MD were more likely to have chronic conditions and symptoms such as *Helicobacter pylori* infection, constipation, and dysphagia. The study concluded that patients exhibiting MD should be closely observed for PD risk, emphasizing the role of gastrointestinal factors in PD pathogenesis. Limitations include potential oversight of PD cases diagnosed outside the study setting and reliance on ICD codes for some data.

References: 

* Womans'World , New Study Links Gut Health With Parkinson’s Risk—Plus One GI Symptom That Could Be an Early Sign

* JAMA Network Open , Upper Gastrointestinal Mucosal Damage and Subsequent Risk of Parkinson Disease

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