 |
 |
Robin Ratliff wrote: > > > > My father (70 years old) was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's. The > > neurologist prescribed Mirapex in slowly increasing dosages, however, his > > nutritionist wants to treat his Parkinson's "nutritionally", Can > > Parkinson's be treated effectively nutritionally? And how? > As a retired Registered Dietitian and retired professor of human nutrition, I have to echo everything Kathrynne Holden wrote regarding reliance on the advice of a "nutritionist" to treat Parkinsons Disease. I realize there are botanicals and chemicals available that have a palliative effect on some of the symptoms of PD. In fact, with our doctor's blessing, we are using Melatonin to help my husband sleep at night. We are, however, using it in the only way it is able to be at all effective. Because melatonin is a chemical that helps to set one's circadian rhythm, he takes it at 6:00 PM. Our doctor tells us that recent research indicates the importance of timing. And it is important to be diligent in taking it at the scheduled time, and in the correct dose titrated for this individual patient. It seems to help, even if it may be just a placebo effect. I mention this personal information because it illustrates the points that need to be considered when heading out on what could be a risky treatment protocol. 1. Can you be sure the product does contain what it claims, and that the amount is standardized. There is a lot of evidence available that products sold as health foods and "Nutrients" are too often guilty of these failures. These products are not subject to the federal regulation that apply to prescription drugs. There are reliable nutritionals available. Research the active ingredient in reliable reference sources. 2. Do you know what amount is appropriate for your individual patient? Can you rely on the say-so of a "nutritionist"? Since anyone can claim to be a nutritionist do you know what that person's qualifications are? Taking a course or two in elementary nutrition is akin to graduating from kindergarten on the road to understanding the complexities of human biochemistry. 3. Is the "nutritionist" selling these suggested products? If so, Caveat emptor! It is an individual's decision what path to take when considering alternate therapies to treat PD symptoms. It should not be a matter of deciding whether to take the advice of a nutritionist or a doctor. The doctor should come first and unlicensed adjunct professionals' advice and recommendations should be discussed with the doctor. Each Parkinson patient is different in symptoms and reaction to medications. Variables like body weight and composition, diet, timing of meals and medications, stressful situations, etc. make big differences in reaction to medications and alternates. I can vouch for that, alas. Martha Rohrer (Caregiver for Neal, 81/dx 1985) mrohrerix.netcom.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn