Can seaweed treat and prevent Parkinson's disease? New study may reveal how

A recent study has discovered that eating Ecklonia cava may help prevent or slow down Parkinson's disease. The seaweed which is commonly used in Asian Cuisine, contains antioxidants that may help protect neurons fromfree radicals that will help prevent the disease.

Parkinson's is a condition that impacts the nervous system, resulting in symptoms like stiffness, shaking, and difficulty moving. It kills the neurons that produce dopamine, a chemical that is responsible for controlling movements in the body, in the brain.

While this disease is not fatal, it results in serious complications which can result in death. No cure has been found for this condition yet, however, studies have found dietary antioxidants may be able to prevent it.

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In several mouse models of Parkinson's disease, resveratrol has been shown to protect the dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. This compound is found in plants and fruits including berries, peanuts, and red grapes.

Some other compounds in plants and fruits like myrtenal, Ellagic acid, and α-lipoic acid have also improved learning and memory ability in Parkinson's mouse models. They have also enhanced neuromuscular coordination.

Many studies have also suggested drinking tea can help prevent Parkinson's, which may be due to its antioxidant content.

Free radicals are produced in our bodies due to reactions to environmental factors like pollution and ultraviolet rays or as a byproduct during the cell processes in the body.

Antioxidants can protect our body from these free radicals which may cause damage to cells. While our body produces some antioxidants, foods rich in antioxidants like Ecklonia cava can be a supplement to strengthen our bodies.

Researchers fed Ecklonia cava to some mice, which were induced Parkinson's, and some with a regular diet. The mice with the antioxidant diet showed fewer signs of Parkinson's than the ones fed with the regular diet. The neurons producing dopamine were also protected in those who were fed the seaweed.

The scientists also tested cells grown in a dish. They induced the cells with rotenone, which increases free radicals and kills the cells. It was found that antioxidants protected the cells from damage from rotenone.

This research, published in The Conversation, can open many new doors for the treatment and prevention of Parkinson's disease. However, more research is needed as animal and cell models may have different results than humans.

(With inputs from agencies)