Poor diet may increase risk of Parkinson's disease

Obesity caused by a high-fat diet may increase the risk of developing Parkinson's disease, new research in mice suggests. Upon aging, a high-fat diet significantly accelerated the onset of neurological symptoms in mice that were genetically predisposed to develop Parkinson's disease.

The Journal of Neurochemistry findings suggest that in addition to having negative effects on glucose and insulin regulation in the body, an unhealthy diet may also cause damage in the brain. More research is needed to uncover the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved.

This image shows the relationship between poor diet and Parkinson's disease.

(Photo Credit: Journal of Neurochemistry)

Source: Wiley