Could a fishy diet
QCAN eating oily fish block the onset of Parkinson’s disease? It runs in my family and I want to prevent it happening to me.
APARKINSON’S disease (PD) is caused by inflammation and destruction of the cells in a part of the brain known as the substantia nigra, which produce the chemical dopamine, together with the formation of a protein known as alpha-synuclein, which is sometimes known as Parkinson’s protein.
Together these are responsible for symptoms of PD such as tremor, slow, rigid movements and impaired balance and co-ordination.
Researchers have found that a protein called parvalbumin can help prevent the formation of Parkinson’s protein and it is found in many fish including cod, herring and salmon. Salmon is also a good source of omega 3 fatty acids which may help to increase dopamine levels and reduce inflammation of nerves.
As yet there isn’t enough evidence to say that eating oily fish could prevent Parkinson’s but it may help reduce the onset and severity of symptoms. It’s also good for your general health.
IN 2000 I was diagnosed with Ménière’s disease as I was experiencing periodic dizzy spells and vomiting. It turned out I was suffering from a tannin allergy which resulted in my inner ear filling with fluid, affecting my
balance. After cutting out tannins from my diet I have been free from dizzy spells for some years now. My doctor had never heard of this condition, have you?
ATANNIN, the acid produced in plants, is found in many foods and drinks but especially red wine, coffee and tea. It can cause mild jitteriness, headaches or anxiety in people sensitive to it and, less commonly, it can cause nausea, diarrhoea and more severe headaches.
Some people find that tannin can give them hay fever-type symptoms such as a runny nose and watering eyes. Mild tannin allergy may also trigger migraines and a severe hangover effect, even after drinking a very small amount of red wine.
More rarely, tannin can cause severe allergic reactions, with swelling of the mouth and airways, which can be lifethreatening.
I’ve never heard that tannins can cause dizziness but reactions can be hugely variable in people and I am pleased to hear you have found a solution.
I BREAK a fingernail or thumbnail almost on a daily basis. The jagged ends are a nuisance and at times very sore. Any advice would be appreciated. I am in my 80s. Is this problem to do with my age?
AIT can be normal for nails to become a little more dry and brittle in later life as the production of nail tissue from the nail bed slows down.
This is also the reason why nails often grow more slowly than before. However repeated wetting then drying of the nails can make them more brittle, so wear gloves for chores that involve getting your hands wet.
Keeping your nails short can help to stop them splitting. Shape and file them regularly.
If you spot a small irregularity, filing it straight away can help. Apply a good hand cream at least twice a day, rubbing it well into the nail and cuticle.
Low levels of iron or vitamin B12 can be to blame occasionally. But if your toenails are strong and only your fingernails are affected this is highly unlikely.