Journal Article Review Epublish 1 citation
PubMed: 39795979 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26010122
Exceeding the Limits with Nutraceuticals: Looking Towards Parkinson's Disease and Frailty.
Int J Mol Sci 26(1)
Authors: Martina Montanari, Nicola Biagio Mercuri, Giuseppina Martella
Affiliations
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy.
- Neurology Unit, Policlinico Tor Vergata, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy.
- Department of Experimental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy.
- Department of Wellbeing, Nutrition and Sport, Faculty of Humanities Educations and Sports, Pegaso Telematics University, 80145 Naples, Italy.
Abstract
One of the most pressing challenges facing society today is the rising prevalence of physical and cognitive frailty. This geriatric condition makes older adults more vulnerable to disability, illness, and a heightened risk of mortality. In this scenario, Parkinson's disease (PD) and geriatric frailty, which share several common characteristics, are becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide, underscoring the urgent need for innovative strategies. Nutraceuticals are naturally occurring bioactive compounds contained in foods, offering health benefits over and above essential nutrition. By examining the literature from the past decade, this review highlights how nutraceuticals can act as complementary therapies, addressing key processes, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuroprotection. Notably, the antioxidant action of nutraceuticals appears particularly beneficial in regard to PD and geriatric frailty. For instance, antioxidant-rich nutraceuticals may mitigate the oxidative damage linked to levodopa therapy in PD, potentially reducing the side effects and enhancing treatment sustainability. Similarly, the antioxidant effects of nutraceuticals may amplify the benefits of physical activity, enhancing muscle function, cognitive health, and resilience, thereby reducing the risk of frailty. This review proposes a holistic approach integrating nutraceuticals with exercise, pharmacotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments. It promises to transform the management of ARD, prolong life, and improve the quality of life and well-being of older people.
MeSH
Exercise, Parkinson Disease, Antioxidants, Precision Medicine, Therapeutics, Frailty