Impact of Diet on the Microbiome-Immune-Brain Axis in Parkinson's Disease

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF KIEL · Jun 11, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how a plant-based diet, specifically the New Nordic low-processed food diet, can affect the gut microbiome, immune system, and brain health in patients with Parkinson's Disease (PD). Researchers believe that this diet, which includes lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole foods, may help improve gut health and reduce inflammation, potentially slowing the progression of PD. They will compare this diet to a typical German diet that includes more processed foods.

To participate in the trial, individuals must be diagnosed with early-stage Parkinson's Disease or have signs of it but not yet be fully diagnosed. They should typically eat a Western diet that includes a lot of processed foods. However, those who already follow a plant-based diet, have food allergies, or certain medical conditions are not eligible. Participants can expect to take part in a dietary program that includes education and support through a web application, aiming to help them stick to the new diet. This trial is not yet recruiting, but it could offer valuable insights into how diet influences health in people with Parkinson's Disease.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • patients with probable prodromal PD (according to predefined criteria)
• • patients with clinical PD with slight to moderate disease severity (Hoehn \& Yahr 1-2.5)
• • habitual Western Diet (≥30% of energy intake from ultra-processed food)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • current adherence to a plant-based diet
• • food allergies or intolerances
• • significant diseases of the gastrointestinal system (e.g. celiac disease) or central nervous system, diabetes mellitus
• • underweight (BMI \<18.5 kg/m2)
• • active smoking
• • expected changes in medication or antibiotic treatment during the intervention