by Here’s a gut check – new research reports that Parkinson’s disease may start in the gut.
A study conducted by Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that damage to the lining of the upper gastrointestinal tract from stomach ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as acid reflux, can increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease by 76%.
And Duke Health researchers recently found that gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation can often precede declines in motor skills in Parkinson’s patients.
Now, California gastroenterologist Saurabh Sethi reveals four simple ways to quickly improve gut health. In a TikTok post shared this week, he recommends consuming probiotics, prebiotics, high-fiber foods, and more water.
Introduce these elements into your diet slowly to see how your body responds.
Probiotics
Our gut microbiome – the collection of bacteria, viruses and fungi in our digestive system – breaks down complex carbohydrates and proteins from food, producing vitamins and essential nutrients that can have a positive impact on overall health.
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that can improve the composition of the microbiome by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Sethi recommends consuming probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, especially a traditional Indian variety called dahi; kefir, a fermented milk drink; Kombucha; Kimchi and Idli, a savory rice cake.
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are special plant fibers that serve as fuel for probiotics to grow and thrive.
Sethi suggests consuming prebiotic foods like garlic, onions, and asparagus. But beware of some nasty side effects.
Foods rich in fiber
In addition to providing probiotics, fiber facilitates smooth and regular bowel movements, helps control blood sugar, lowers cholesterol, and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Sethi recommends getting 30 grams of fiber daily from foods like chia seeds, berries and oatmeal.
“If you eat more fiber, you live longer [and] have less acid reflux and less constipation,” Sethi explained.
The American Heart Association recommends consuming at least 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day — although most Americans only consume about 15 grams per day.
More water
“Fiber and water go hand in hand. Fiber absorbs water,” Sethi noted. “Aim to drink about eight glasses of water every day.”
Eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day have long been considered the gold standard for hydration, although some experts recommend ½ to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily.
Fluid needs can vary depending on body size, metabolism, diet, weather and activity level.
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