Health
How eating habits could influence Parkinson’s disease risk, according to experts
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Growing observational research suggests that long-term dietary patterns may influence Parkinson’s risk, age at onset and possibly severity of symptoms.
Mediterranean-style eating, in particular, has been associated with lower risk and possibly milder disease.
That said, there isn’t a single food that causes or prevents disease, according to Dr. Michael S. Valdez, a California-based physician with advanced training in neurology.
Growing observational research suggests that long-term dietary patterns may influence Parkinson’s risk, age at onset and possibly severity of symptoms. (iStock)
“When we talk about Parkinson’s and similar conditions, it helps to zoom out,” he told Fox News Digital. “In many cases, it’s the overall pattern over years that matters.”
The brain is especially sensitive to chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and vascular health, which is how well blood flows to brain tissue, according to the doctor.
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“Another key point is that neurodegenerative diseases develop slowly,” Valdez pointed out. “Changes in movement or cognition often appear years after underlying changes in the brain have already started.”
“That means lifestyle factors, including diet, are part of a much larger timeline that also includes genetics, environmental exposures, sleep and physical activity.”
Foods that could delay disease
No. 1: Mediterranean and MIND diets
Dr. Rebecca Gilbert, a seasoned neurologist and the chief mission officer at the American Parkinson Disease Association in New York, confirmed that the best foods for brain health are those that make up the MIND or Mediterranean diets.
“These diets emphasize whole grains, vegetables (especially green leafy vegetables), nuts, legumes and berries,” Gilbert told Fox News Digital. “Fish is the preferred animal protein, and olive oil is the preferred fat.”
Mediterranean-style eating, in particular, has been associated with lower risk and possibly milder disease. (iStock)
Studies have suggested that among those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, adherence to the MIND or Mediterranean diets prior to diagnosis was associated with later onset of the disease, according to the doctor.
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“These diets are good for the brain because they are rich in antioxidants and other anti-inflammatory nutrients that keep neurons healthy,” she said. “The diets also support clean blood vessels to the brain, which provide adequate blood flow containing the nutrients and oxygen that neurons need.”
No. 2: Flavonoid-rich foods
“Blueberries, strawberries, apples, tea and red wine in moderation have been associated with lower PD risk in large cohorts,” Amanda Hare, an expert nurse practitioner in the field of neurology and movement disorders, who is also a medical liaison at Rune Labs, told Fox News Digital.
The South Carolina-based expert cited a Harvard study that found men with the highest flavonoid intake had about 40% lower disease risk.
“A responsible expert would place diet in that broader context rather than overselling any single food.”
“Anthocyanins — the pigments in red/purple berries — are the subclass with the most consistent signal,” she said. “These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and may cross the blood-brain barrier.”
No. 3: Coffee and caffeinated tea
Large studies have shown that regular coffee consumption is associated with lower Parkinson’s risk, according to Hare, although a direct cause can’t be proven.
Caffeine has been found to protect brain cells in animal studies by blocking a specific brain receptor called the adenosine A2A receptor, she said.
“The effect is stronger in men; hormone therapy appears to modify it in women,” Hare added.
Scientists have found early signs of the disease — clumps of a protein called alpha-synuclein — in the nerves of the digestive system. (iStock)
No. 4: Fatty fish and omega-3 sources
“Evidence is more suggestive than definitive, but diets higher in omega-3s – salmon, sardines, mackerel, walnuts and flaxseed – correlate with lower risk and may support general neuronal health,” Hare said.
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No. 5: Fiber and fermented foods
In some cases, Parkinson’s pathology may begin in the gut, and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as constipation, can precede diagnosis, experts agree.
Scientists have found early signs of the disease — clumps of a protein called alpha-synuclein — in the nerves of the digestive system.
Large studies have shown that regular coffee consumption is associated with lower Parkinson’s risk, according to Hare, although a direct cause can’t be proven. (iStock)
“Constipation is one of the strongest prodromal symptoms, often predating diagnosis by a decade or more,” Hare told Fox News Digital.
“Diets supporting a diverse gut microbiome – high fiber, fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi – are an active research area, though we don’t yet have randomized trial evidence that changing your microbiome changes Parkinson’s risk.”
Foods associated with higher risk
No. 1: Dairy (particularly milk)
“This is a consistent but still-debated finding,” Hare said. “Multiple large cohorts have found that higher milk consumption is associated with modestly elevated PD risk, particularly in men.”
The signal is specific to milk, she noted, as cheese and yogurt don’t show the same consistent association.
Recent research, including the Nurses’ Health Study in 2025, has linked high ultraprocessed food intake to higher odds of early Parkinson’s symptoms. (iStock)
No. 2: Ultraprocessed foods
Recent research, including the Nurses’ Health Study in 2025, has linked high ultraprocessed food intake to higher odds of early Parkinson’s symptoms. This supports broader evidence of processed foods’ association with systemic inflammation, Hare noted.
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No. 3: Pesticide exposure via diet
Exposure to paraquat and rotenone, which are toxic chemicals often used as pesticides, are among the strongest environmental risk factors for Parkinson’s, according to Hare.
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“Eating organic produce when possible … is a reasonable precaution, though the bulk of pesticide risk in the Parkinson’s literature relates to occupational exposure, not dietary,” she noted.
No. 4: Excess saturated fat and red/processed meat
“Associations exist, but are less robust than the dairy or ultraprocessed findings,” Hare said.
There are some limitations and caveats for all of these dietary risk associations, she noted.
“Associations exist, but are less robust than the dairy or ultraprocessed findings,” the expert said about red meat consumption. (iStock)
“Epidemiology does not equal causation,” she emphasized. “Nearly all of the above comes from observational studies.”
Lifestyle behaviors can also come into play – people who eat Mediterranean diets, for example, also exercise more, smoke less and have more resources.
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“Diet is one lever among several,” Hare noted. “Exercise has stronger evidence than any food for both preventing Parkinson’s and slowing progression. Sleep quality, cognitive engagement and avoidance of head injury also matter.”
“A responsible expert would place a diet in that broader context rather than overselling any single food.”
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Walking is a great way to get the body moving and clear the mind — but if you’re doing it wrong, it may do more harm than good.
That’s according to Dr. Milica McDowell, author of the new book “Walk,” a guide to getting the most out of walking.
The Montana-based doctor of physical therapy, who specializes in lower extremity and orthopedics, shared in an interview with Fox News Digital how powerful walking can be.
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“Walking has incredible health benefits for your wellness today and your longevity tomorrow,” she said. “And it’s something that’s at an all-time low since the pandemic.”
“Walking improves every system in your body – gut, musculoskeletal, mental health, your hormones – and so it has an incredible power to help optimize how you’re doing.”
“Walk,” co-authored by physical therapist Milica McDowell, explores how walking can improve longevity, mobility, mental well-being and overall fitness. (Amelia Anne Photography; Hachette Book Group/Alexander Ryabintsev)
McDowell added that walking is a “phenomenal way” to support a weight-loss journey, as it’s low-impact and low-intensity. It can also boost creativity and reduce stress.
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While the health benefits of walking are evident, McDowell warned of some mistakes that could reverse progress.
No. 1: Walking while scrolling
Escaping our phones can sometimes feel impossible, but if there’s ever a time to be on do-not-disturb, it’s during a walk, according to McDowell.
Walking while scrolling is “really dangerous,” she cautioned, as you’re less aware of your surroundings and more susceptible to accidents.
Walking while scrolling is a danger to public health, the expert says. (iStock)
“You could step in a pothole. You could get hit by a car. You could trip over something. You could bump into someone,” she said. “Walking and scrolling is actually a bit of a public health crisis.”
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Scrolling also puts the neck in a downward position, making the head heavier, which changes your posture “from the top down,” McDowell said. “That can be a problem if you’re someone who struggles with neck pain, back pain or shoulder pain.”
No. 2: Wearing the wrong shoes
McDowell recommends wearing a proper shoe designed specifically for walking to support the feet, promote healthy alignment and protect musculoskeletal health.
The shoe should be “shaped like a foot” so that the toes have room to spread within a wide toe box, she said.
Having space between each toe activates more muscles in the foot and creates a “more healthy walking gait,” according to the expert.
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More than 60% of adults wear the wrong shoe size, according to McDowell, and sizing can vary significantly between brands and manufacturers. She recommends getting measured by a professional to ensure the optimal fit.
No. 3: Not balancing your routine
Walking engages important muscles that support stability and mobility, including the glutes, which help propel the body forward with each step.
But walking shouldn’t be your only form of exercise, experts say. Incorporating strength training and other forms of movement can help prevent overuse injuries, improve balance and build overall fitness.
A well-rounded fitness routine will boost the health benefits of walking, the expert said. (iStock)
“A health stack includes drinking enough water, having healthy nutrition and sleeping adequately — and walking can be added to the other activities,” she said.
Pairing walking with activities like weightlifting, pickleball, dancing or CrossFit can help create a more balanced fitness routine, according to McDowell, and are all part of building a strong “health stack.”
“A health stack includes drinking [enough] water, having healthy nutrition, sleeping adequately — and walking can be added to the other activities,” she said.
No. 4: Not considering walking speed
The speed at which we walk may tell us more about our health than we think.
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Walking speed is the sixth vital sign of health, according to McDowell. These clinical measurements also include blood pressure, heart rate and body temperature.
If your walking speed begins to decline, this could be a marker of underlying health conditions up to seven years before they occur.
A decline in walking speed could be an early warning sign of an underlying health condition. (iStock)
While most people walk at about 90 to 100 steps per minute, translating to about three miles per hour, McDowell suggested increasing your speed to reap “higher level benefits.”
This might mean taking a brisk walk at about 120 to 130 steps per minute, or three and a half to four miles an hour.
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“That can be a place where you get higher level payoff, including more calories burned, if you’re on a weight-loss journey,” she said.
No. 5: Not staying consistent
McDowell emphasized the importance of staying consistent with your walking routine.
A daily walk will have bigger payoffs than only walking once or twice a week. The expert likened walking to basic hygiene, such as brushing your teeth.
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“Everyone is at different places on their walking journey,” she said. “Don’t set the 10,000 steps per day benchmark. That is a marketing myth … Go ahead and find a step count that works well for you, maybe between 5,500 and 7,500.”
Efficiency is everything
McDowell summed up that each walk should be efficient.
“If you are an efficient walker, you are graceful, you are not wasting energy, you are walking balanced no matter your height, your weight or your age,” she said.
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As the wellness movement has emphasized the importance of just moving, McDowell commented that walking is a “pinnacle activity” in this push.
“People are recognizing that these softer, more consistent activities can provide a lot of benefit for our physical and mental health,” she said.
McDowell encourages walking with a friend for added social benefit. (iStock)
“You don’t have to go and crush yourself in the gym. You don’t have to be dripping sweat … It’s something you can do for periods of time throughout the day, little ‘snacks’ that all add up, or you can take longer walks depending on what time is available to you.”
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Walking can also be a positive social experience done with friends and loved ones, McDowell noted. This is particularly important for seniors who can benefit from the combined physical activity and social interaction.
“Walking with an older adult can help combat loneliness,” she said. “It can also help improve balance and reaction time, and reduce fall risk.”
Health
Filtered water at specific ages could add months to your lifespan decades later, new study finds
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Drinking filtered water may extend a person’s life by several months, according to a new study.
The research, published in the American Journal of Health Economics, reveals that being exposed to water filtration systems early in life can significantly increase longevity. By analyzing public health infrastructure shifts from the early 20th century, researchers found that city water filtration alone increased the lifespan of older American men by an average of 3.2 months.
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“While water quality has improved in many areas, this study shows the real impacts to communities without access to safe water, both in the U.S. and globally,” co-author Jason Fletcher, a professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, said in a press release.
“The consequences on human health are significant.”
“This study shows the real impacts to communities without access to safe water,” the study’s author said in a press release. (iStock)
The team analyzed data from the Social Security Administration’s Death Master Files. They tracked death records for American men born between 1975 and 2005, mapping each individual’s year and city of birth to historical water filtration records.
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By connecting early-life environments to late-life outcomes, the researchers isolated the lifelong impact of clean water.
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Beyond adding months to a person’s life, the study suggests that clean water in childhood sets off a positive chain reaction for socioeconomic and physical development.
The paper is part of a broader research initiative examining how environmental conditions earlier in life shape the modern American lifespan. (iStock)
Additional data from mid-20th-century censuses showed that early exposure to filtered water was linked to increased height, higher education and income levels later in life.
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The paper is part of a broader research initiative called the American Mortality Project, which examines how early-life conditions shape the modern American lifespan.
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The researchers exclusively analyzed historical data from American men, meaning the findings may not fully capture how early-life water filtration impacted the long-term longevity, physical growth, or cognitive scores of women from the same era.
Due to analysis of a limited dataset of American cities, this may not apply to other nations or rural communities. (iStock)
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The data is limited to public health infrastructure changes across U.S. cities during a specific window in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Because of this, the exact timeline and magnitude of the lifespan extension (3.2 months) may not directly translate to modern developing nations, rural communities, or areas with different environments.
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Researchers have found that changing your diet — even later in life — may slow the aging process in as little as one month.
Researchers from the University of Sydney assigned 104 participants aged 65-75 to one of four diets. Two of the diets were omnivorous and included protein from both animals and plants. Two included 70% of protein from plant sources.
One omnivorous diet was high in fat, while the other emphasized carbohydrates. The two semi-vegetarian diets were distinguished in the same way. All four diets derived 14% of energy from protein.
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“Biological age” essentially means how old the body appears based on health indicators, called biomarkers, rather than how many years a person has been alive.
University of Sydney researchers found that diet changes had an effect on people’s biological ages after four weeks. (iStock/Getty Images)
The scientists measured 20 varied biomarkers, including cholesterol and insulin levels, in participants to determine how short-term diet changes affect biological aging.
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“While chronological age increases uniformly, biological aging varies between individuals, reflecting differences in health status and the body’s resilience,” a University of Sydney report on the study’s findings said.
Biomarker profiles “are often considered a better indicator of overall health and potential longevity than chronological age,” according to the report.
Older adults who ate diets rich in complex carbohydrates and plant-based food reduced their biological age, scientists found. (iStock/Getty Images)
The scientists found that, after four weeks, participants’ biological ages in three of the four diet groups dropped. Only the high-fat omnivorous dieters’ biological ages “showed no meaningful change.”
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The study, “Short-Term Dietary Intervention Alters Physiological Profiles Relevant to Ageing,” published in Aging Cell, concluded that the most pronounced improvements came from “diets rich in complex carbohydrates and plant-based components.”
Participants who consumed an omnivorous diet high in fat did not see changes in their biological ages, though all other types of diets reduced theirs in a University of Sydney study. (iStock/Getty Images)
The research team cautioned that these results are preliminary and may represent only short-term effects.
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“It’s too soon to say definitively that specific changes to diet will extend your life,” said Caitlin Andrews, who led the study. “But this research offers an early indication of the potential benefits of dietary changes later in life.”
Fox News Digital reached out to the researchers for comment.
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