A Simple Vitamin Solution Combats Parkinson’s

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted January 25, 2025

Our understanding of the gut-brain connection has grown rapidly in recent years.

So, it’s no surprise that scientists suspect a connection between gut health and the development of Parkinson’s. However, new research is adding more details to the picture.

A groundbreaking study revealed two common nutrients are often critically low in folks with Parkinson’s.

This unexpected finding provides us with a simple solution to fight back against the disease…

In a recent study, Japanese researchers analyzed fecal samples from 94 Parkinson’s patients and 73 healthy control volunteers. Those results were then compared to data gathered in China, Germany, Taiwan, and the USA.

The team discovered that the gut bacteria that help produce and regulate B vitamins are notably different in people with Parkinson’s (although the precise bacteria can vary by region).

As a result, people with Parkinson’s tend to have significantly lower levels of two vital B vitamins:

• riboflavin (B2)
• biotin (B7)

B vitamins are essential for brain health and nervous system function—but there’s more…

A lack of B vitamins is also linked to a drop in the short-chain fatty acids and polyamines that help create a healthy mucus layer in the intestines.

A compromised intestinal barrier makes you more vulnerable to common toxins, including pesticides, herbicides, and cleaning chemicals.

So, restoring your B vitamin levels may help prevent damage caused by the disease—and could even restore some motor function.

B vitamins are safe, affordable, and widely available. I suggest you talk with your doctor about which supplements and dosages are right for you.

However, in the meantime, you can naturally boost your B’s through your diet.

Riboflavin (B2) rich foods include…

• Eggs
• Lean meats
• Dark green vegetables
• Mushrooms
• Fish
• Whole grains

Boost your Biotin (B7) levels by eating more…

• Nuts (especially almonds)
• Sweet potatoes
• Avocados
• Eggs
• Legumes
• Dairy

But don’t stop there. Support better gut health by taking a high-quality prebiotic and probiotic and by eating more fermented foods, such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut.

Be sure to get plenty of fiber from vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains. And stay well hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.

P.S. Discover how gut bugs shape your brain health.
Source:

Nishiwaki, H., Ueyama, J., Ito, M., Hamaguchi, T., Takimoto, K., Maeda, T., Kashihara, K., Tsuboi, Y., Mori, H., Kurokawa, K., Katsuno, M., Hirayama, M., & Ohno, K. (2024). Meta-analysis of shotgun sequencing of gut microbiota in Parkinson’s disease. Npj Parkinson’s Disease, 10(1), 1-11.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

View More By Dr. Scott Olson, ND