Consuming a lot of fruit and fruit drinks may increase your risk of Parkinson’s disease, according to researchers in Honolulu.
A link between fruit and vitamin C intake and an increased risk of Parkinson’s has been suggested by previous studies, however the studies were not confirmed.
The current study involved more than 8,000 participants who were observed for 34 years.
Results indicated that increased fruit and fruit drink consumption was associated with an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. The results remained even after adjusting for other known risk factors.
Researchers suggest that the increased risk may be due to pesticides or herbicides on the fruit, rather than the fruit itself.
No association was found between dietary and supplemental intake of vitamin C and risk of Parkinson’s.
Fruit consumption can be useful in preventing many chronic diseases; however, further research into the role of food borne toxins may be useful in gaining insight into the prevention and origins of Parkinson’s, according to researchers.
The American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting Honolulu April 3, 2003
Journal Clinical Toxicology 2003;41(1):67-70
American Journal Epidemiology March 1, 2003;157(5):409-14
The evidence continues to mount regarding the dangers of sugar and insulin elevation. I would have to respectfully disagree with the author’s speculation that the cause of the observed increase was pesticides or herbicides.
There is some evidence to suggest this is true and other evidence that suggests it isn’t.
While I am clearly not in favor of increasing your exposure to pesticides, and I strongly encourage the consumption of organic produce whenever possible, it is hard for me to accept that the moderate and nearly minimal exposure that would result from drinking fruit juice is a major contributing factor to Parkinson’s disease.
It is far more likely that the association is related to the eight teaspoons of fructose in fruit juice. It is likely that the fructose is worse than regular table sugar.
I believe there is more than substantial evidence to support this. If you really want to know how to eat to prevent any number of diseases, I suggest you take a look at my new book, as it will provide everything you need to know about all the healthiest foods, as well as those you should avoid.
As an alternative to fruit juice, consider mixing healthy fruits with a protein shake. I recommend either Whey Protein with Aminogen or Pea Protein. Both come in a convenient powder form. Plus, Whey Protein with Aminogen will actually help to regulate blood sugar and will not cause an insulin response.Related Articles:
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