Nutrition Bytes

Current knowledge on the mechanism of Parkinson’s disease (PD) has led to the development of extensive pharmacological and surgical interventions; nevertheless PD remains idiopathic and progressive. A series of recent studies suggests that low plasma level of uric acid is a risk factor for both the incidence and progression of the disease. A diet high in fructose has been correlated with the development of protective high uric acid plasma levels. While dietary intervention may be warranted to halt PD progression, the benefits will have to be weighed against the risks of high uric acids levels, which include gout and cardiovascular disease.