By Heide Kennedy, Arizona Farm Bureau Communications Intern
Did you know that almost 1 million people in the United States are living with Parkinson’s disease? In fact, it is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s. If there was a way to help prevent yourself or a loved one from developing this disease later in life, would you make the necessary changes? It turns out that there are a few lifestyle changes that you can make to help reduce your risk of dying from Parkinson’s disease. 
According to a study published in the Journal of American Medicine, having a healthy diet and living an active lifestyle has been shown to reduce the risk of Parkinson’s disease mortality. The study analyzed the participant’s pre-diagnosis diet and activity levels. They were then monitored through their diagnosis, and then their mortality rate was evaluated.
Overall, the study concluded that those who ate healthier and were more active before they were diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease had a 49% lesser mortality risk than those who didn’t eat healthy diets or engage in regular physical activity.
We have always known the importance of eating healthy, nourishing, and balanced meals. We also know just how vital it is to our health to maintain a regular exercise routine. Staying on top of these healthy lifestyle habits can protect us from a lot of health issues later in life, and Parkinson’s is on that list! So, whether it be as advice to you personally, or advice for a family member, friend, or loved one, remember the importance of prioritizing health now, as it can significantly improve your quality of life now, and in the future!
For more health-related articles, check out the Fill Your Plate blog!