Unleashing the Power of Intensive Brain Training in Parkinson's: Promising Findings

[Esperanto]

Discover the captivating effects of intensive brain training in Parkinson's disease. This study focused on a group of individuals recently diagnosed with Parkinson's and in relatively good condition. Over a six-month period, they engaged in a rigorous training program under supervision.

The intensive program consisted of a 5-minute warm-up, 2 x 15-minute circuit training targeting cardio, strength, and power, 15 minutes of boxing, and a 10-minute cool-down. Adjustments were made to accommodate any limitations. Participants aimed to reach 80% of their maximum heart rate, successfully achieving this goal 6 out of 10 times. With 90% of exercise days considered highly intense, commitment was paramount, requiring a minimum of 3 training sessions per week, totaling at least 72 sessions.

Before and after the training period, scans were conducted to measure dopamine transporter (DAT) and neuromelanin levels in crucial brain areas. Remarkably, after 6 months, participants showed a significant increase in DAT levels in the Substantia nigra, the region most affected by Parkinson's. Nine out of ten participants experienced this increase, suggesting improved functioning of existing dopamine neurons. Neuromelanin levels also displayed an average increase, albeit with more variability among participants.

Though the study's sample size was limited, the absence of a control group, and the need for further research, the findings are encouraging. Participants reported favorable outcomes, with their Parkinson's scores remaining stable even one year later, according to the MDS-UPDRS-III method. These results align with previous studies highlighting the benefits of high-intensity training.

This study sheds light on the potential of long-term intensive training to induce measurable changes in the brain. Particularly for those in the early stages of Parkinson's, the observed increase in biomarkers associated with the dopamine system suggests a possible delay in disease progression. As further research confirms these findings, exercise could become a vital tool in managing Parkinson's.

Article: "Intense exercise increases dopamine transporter and neuromelanin concentrations in the substantia nigra in Parkinson's disease"

Authors: De Laar, B; Hoye, J et al.

Journal: npj Parkinson’s Disease (2024)

doi.org/10.1038/s41531-024-...

[JayPwP]

Good one

[LindaP50]

Great post! Thanks.

[Nikosmom]

thanks for posting

[JohnPepper]

That is all well and good but, at what expense?

Fast Walking has been proven to do the job perfectly for PD patients!

I am sure we can all g=find a school playing field to walk on, three times a week, at no cost!

Why don't we all agree that FAST WALKING IS THE BEST AND SHEAPEST WAY TO OVERCOME PD?

Maybe the big money people do not like it!

[Esperanto in reply to JohnPepper]

There are multiple ways to achieve the same goal, John, and this research proves it. Fast-walking may be a suitable form of exercise for some people, but not for others. It should be physically compatible with any limitations one may have. In my case, I have peripheral neuropathy in my feet.

Additionally, it is essential to find enjoyment in the activity; otherwise, it will not be effective in the long run. Personally, I believe in a combination of various intensive exercises rather than focusing on just one type. This approach is beneficial for both the brain and different muscle groups.

Regardless, like fast walking, I prefer outdoor activities as much as possible.

[MBAnderson]

Encouraging