As incredible as it may seem, it’s actually true, according to NRC columnist and former professor Martijn Katan: Research shows that smoking reduces the risk of Parkinson’s. This effect is not explained by other differences between smokers and non-smokers. Moderate alcohol consumption may also be protective against Parkinson’s.
This doesn’t mean we should start smoking and drinking again en masse. The benefits against Parkinson’s are offset by the increased risks of other diseases.
Exercise reduces the risk of Parkinson’s and relieves symptoms in those who have already been diagnosed. But, Katan warns, sports like rugby and boxing that carry a risk of concussion actually increase the risk.
Katan also points out that coffee drinkers are less likely to develop Parkinson’s, without causing other diseases. Regarding nutrition, it is said that milk consumption may increase the risk of Parkinson’s, although this has not been convincingly proven. Eating organic, with fewer pesticides, can also help, but it doesn’t seem to greatly reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s.
Sad but true: Quitting smoking and drinking increases the risk of Parkinson’s disease. This is the topic of my article on NRC. https://t.co/dClTrcjt85
— Martijn Katan (@martijnkatan) January 4, 2024
Katan listed these facts because he wants to make it clear that we can always be influenced by something and that a counterstrategy produces other effects. As we age, new disorders arise that we want to do something about. But perhaps this is a wrong desire, says Katan in his article.
Katan believes that Parkinson’s is mainly due to further aging. It seems to be becoming more common as people get older. He believes that age-related conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and dementia are inevitable and that euthanasia will become more popular in the future as a way to avoid suffering from them. We’ll only do this once, says the barely disguised Katan.
Regardless, turning to alcohol and drinking to treat Parkinson’s is a bad idea. Especially if you’re a little older, because it’s much easier to fall down the stairs after a drink.
2024-01-07 18:02:00
#Katan #aging #Smoking #drinking #Parkinsons #refrain