Parkinson's disease also know as PD, is a neurodegenerative brain disorder that slowly progresses for on average about 20 years or more. According to the National Parkinson Foundation, 50,000-60,000 new cases are reported every year in the United States alone. The disease is caused by inadequate production of dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical that comes from neurons in the brain. These chemicals relay messages from the substantia nigra and other portions of the brain. The relayed messages control movements of the body. Proper dopamine levels will result in smooth movements of the body. When a person has Parkinson's Disease, dopamine is not produced enough and the tremors that are often seen with Parkinson's will begin to appear. There is no cure for PD, however there are natural ways to increase dopamine levels in the brain as well as help to manage the symptoms of the disease. Tai Chi is a type of exercise that is a helpful way to improve balance. The loss of smooth movement could also be improved by this type of exercise. There are several foods that can help to increase dopamine levels such as bananas, fish, almonds, and watermelon. A person with PD should also look to avoid foods that are high in sugar, saturated fat, and cholesterol. These types of foods will only work against the goal to improve dopamine levels. A person should talk to their doctor before starting and sort of regiment besides general medications, because even slight changes could dramatically change a person with a dopamine problem.
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