The Power of Aerobic Exercise: Could It Shield You from Parkinson's Disease?
Source: Neuroscience News (September 12, 2022)
Lifestyle Medicine Update (September 15, 2022)
Introduction:
Parkinson’s disease (PD) looms as the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, casting a shadow over the lives of millions. It’s a formidable adversary, striking approximately 1 in 600 individuals aged 65 and older each year. While the exact cause remains elusive, scientists believe it’s a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Surprisingly, certain environmental elements, such as exposure to pesticides, dairy consumption, and traumatic brain injury, elevate the risk of Parkinson’s. Conversely, other factors like smoking, caffeine intake, high urate levels, and physical activity seem to offer some protection.
Unlocking the Exercise Secret: A Ray of Hope
The connection between regular exercise and a reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease is not a new revelation. Studies have hinted at the protective effects of physical activity. However, a groundbreaking study, spotlighted in Neuroscience News in September 2022, has unearthed a vital mechanism that underscores the role of endurance exercise, particularly aerobic exercise, in warding off Parkinson’s disease.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston have unravelled a fascinating revelation. They’ve discovered that during endurance exercises, a hormone is secreted into the bloodstream. This hormone appears to reduce the levels of a protein closely linked to Parkinson’s disease while effectively putting a halt to movement issues in mice. The star of the show? A protein named irisin.
Irisin: The Mysterious Key
Irisin, released by muscles during aerobic exercise, is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. Remarkably, it has the ability to block crucial pathways associated with Parkinson’s disease. In their experiments, researchers injected irisin into the specific region of a mouse brain where Parkinson’s disease typically takes root. Astonishingly, the mice genetically engineered to be at high risk for Parkinson’s disease remained unscathed. Their breakthrough provides a fascinating clue as to why individuals who engage in aerobic exercise exhibit a lower tendency to develop Parkinson’s. Furthermore, it sheds light on how exercise might slow down the progression of Parkinson’s in individuals who are already grappling with the disease.
Towards an Irisin-Infused Future
The prospect of a drug harnessing the power of irisin to combat Parkinson’s disease is tantalizing. Biotechnology research firms are fervently working towards creating an irisin-based drug capable of navigating the human body and reaching the brain. This intervention could potentially reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease and even transform the landscape of Parkinson’s treatment. However, it’s important to note that the technology and science to bring this to fruition still has miles to go.
Take Charge of Your Health
While we await these groundbreaking developments, there’s an actionable step within reach. Regular aerobic exercise, ideally performed 4-7 times per week, holds the key to releasing irisin into your bloodstream. This hormone can cross into the brain, inhibiting the clumping of a protein known as alpha-synuclein. These clumps are responsible for the death of dopamine-producing nerve cells, a critical factor in Parkinson’s disease symptoms. Additionally, irisin accelerates the breakdown of synuclein, preventing its accumulation and clumping in the brain. Thus, integrating aerobic exercise into your wellness and longevity strategy is not only good preventive medicine but may also diminish your risk of Parkinson’s disease as you age.
References:
- Main Reference: “Exercise hormone halts Parkinson’s disease symptoms.” Neuroscience News. September 12, 2022.
- Crotty G.F. “Chasing protection in Parkinson’s disease: Does exercise reduce risk and progression.” Front Aging Neurosci. 2020; 12: 186.
Dr. Meschino
Dr. James Meschino
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.