Potential Protective Factors Against Parkinson's Disease
Written by Parkinson's Foundation
Scientists have found certain factors that may reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's Disease(PD). As with risk factors, not enough is known about these and they should not be tried without the counsel of a doctor.
Caffeine: Consumption of caffeine in coffee or tea may lower risk of developing PD.
Uric acid or urate: This chemical occurs naturally in blood. High levels, associated with diets high in certain foods, like meats, can cause gout and kidney stones. However, researchers have found that men with uric acid levels in the high end of the normal range have a lower incidence of PD, though a similar effect was not observed in women.
Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Several studies have shown that people who regularly take anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen have a lower risk of PD.
Smoking: Many studies have associated cigarette smoking with a decreased risk of PD perhaps due to the protective factor of nicotine.
Cholesterol Levels: Some studies have suggested that the use of statins - drugs used to lower cholesterol levels - is associated with reduced PD risk.
Vitamin D: It has been suggested that those with higher vitamin D levels were at lower risk of developing PD, however additional studies are needed to support this.
Exercise: Increase physical activity early in life has been associated with a lower risk of developing Parkinson's later in life.
References:
https://www.parkinson.org/Understanding-Parkinsons/Causes/Environmental-Factors