A new study has found that people with Parkinson’s disease are less likely to have Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections, a common stomach bacterium linked to ulcers.
This surprising discovery suggests a possible connection between gut health and Parkinson’s, a neurodegenerative disease affecting movement and brain function.
H. pylori infects about half of the world’s population and usually causes stomach problems. However, this study, conducted in China with over 22,000 participants, showed Parkinson’s patients had significantly fewer H. pylori infections compared to others.
Researchers think the bacteria might influence the immune system in ways that could protect against brain disorders like Parkinson’s, though the exact cause and effect are still unclear.
The study used breath tests to detect infection and adjusted results for age, sex, and other health factors. Even after these adjustments, Parkinson’s patients had about 26% lower odds of carrying H. pylori than people without the disease.
This finding supports growing evidence that gut health plays a key role in brain health and diseases.
While Parkinson’s is known for causing tremors and stiffness, digestive symptoms often appear early, highlighting the gut-brain connection.
Maintaining good gut health may support overall brain health. Eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, probiotics, and fermented foods can promote healthy gut bacteria.
If you experience digestive issues or symptoms related to Parkinson’s, consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and personalized care. Ongoing research may lead to new ways to protect brain health by targeting gut bacteria.
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