Moving Forward, Together: Nutrition and the Microbiome (2021)

Dr. Silke Appel-Cresswell, a movement disorder neurologist, led this talk focusing on the intricate relationship between the gut microbiome and Parkinson's disease. Highlighting early symptoms like constipation and impaired sense of smell as potential indicators of this connection, the talk emphasized the pivotal role of the microbiome in influencing the development and severity of the disease. Research findings in mice indicated the significant impact of microbiota absence or fecal transplants from Parkinson's patients on disease progression, warranting ongoing investigations into this area.

Discussing the influence of nutrition on Parkinson's, the presentation suggested the Mediterranean and MIND diets as potentially beneficial in reducing the risk of the disease, while emphasizing the lack of substantial evidence supporting the efficacy of supplements, except for vitamin D. The talk underscored the significance of personalized diets, protein redistribution, and probiotics in managing Parkinson's, with additional exploration needed on the correlation between appendectomy and the disease. Clarifying aspects related to stool softeners, the speaker highlighted various types such as polyethylene glycol and magnesium, emphasizing the need for further research on mannitol's implications in Parkinson's disease and the absence of evidence linking the condition to bowel cancer.

View the video slides accompanying this presentation by clicking here.

**Disclaimer: These sessions are designed to provide general education and are not intended for individual advice and/or clinical care. The information conveyed in this recording was accurate at the time of presentation.**