Caffeine as an ally against the disease
When waking up in the morning, it is often the first thing that comes to mind: a cup of coffee.
This daily ritual, essential for many, not only provides energy and concentration but can also positively influence mood. Various studies suggest that caffeine stimulates the production of dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and well-being. Research conducted by Harvard Medical School indicates that coffee consumption may even reduce the risk of depression and improve stress resilience. This is an interesting finding that highlights how coffee’s effects go far beyond simply “waking up” in the morning.
The link between coffee and Parkinson’s prevention
Beyond its effects on mood, coffee may also play a role in preventing Parkinson’s disease. According to numerous epidemiological studies, regular caffeine consumption is associated with a reduced risk of developing the disease. A scientific review conducted at Leicester Medical School in 2023 highlighted that caffeine acts as an antagonist of A2A adenosine receptors, helping to modulate dopaminergic transmission and reduce oxidative stress—both key factors in the degeneration of neurons responsible for the disease.
A particularly interesting aspect concerns the difference in incidence between men and women: research suggests that caffeine’s benefits are more evident in males, while in women, they may be influenced by hormonal factors such as hormone replacement therapy. Additionally, a dose-dependent effect has been observed: higher coffee consumption appears to be correlated with a more significant reduction in the risk of developing Parkinson’s. However, it is important to consider the side effects of excessive consumption, such as nervousness, insomnia, and increased heart rate.
Does coffee help those who already have Parkinson’s?
While research highlights a correlation between coffee consumption and Parkinson’s prevention, the scenario changes when analyzing its effects on patients already affected by the disease. A clinical study conducted by Dr. Ronald B. Postuma and published by the American Academy of Neurology in 2017 evaluated caffeine’s impact on disease symptoms, particularly muscle rigidity and bradykinesia. The results showed that caffeine does not significantly improve motor symptoms. This suggests that while coffee may have a protective role before the onset of the disease, it does not serve as an effective solution for those already living with Parkinson’s.
Alternative solutions to improve Parkinson’s motor symptoms
If caffeine does not help manage motor symptoms, other innovative and non-invasive technological solutions exist. Some of these can reduce movement symptoms such as freezing of gait and festination, improving balance in patients with Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathy, or those undergoing post-stroke rehabilitation. The Gondola AMPS therapy, for example, uses peripheral mechanical stimulation on the feet to send signals to the brain, optimizing the neuronal circuits involved in movement. Unlike coffee, which primarily acts on neuroprotection, AMPS therapy directly targets Parkinson’s symptoms, providing both immediate and long-term benefits for those struggling daily with motor difficulties.
Coffee: an ally in prevention, but not in treatment
Coffee has proven to be more than just an energizing beverage: it can enhance psychological well-being and reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s. However, for those already living with Parkinson’s, innovative therapies such as peripheral mechanical stimulation offer immediate benefits. Prevention is always fundamental, but when facing daily challenges like freezing and walking difficulties, it is essential to choose the most effective strategies for symptom management. Only in this way can we improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers, enhancing their independence and freedom.
Sources:
Drinking coffee may decrease depression risk in women, Harvard School of Public Health, 2011
https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/coffee-depression-women-ascherio-lucas/
Coffee helps prevent and slow down Parkinson’s, Federica Bosco, 2022
https://www.sanitainformazione.it/salute/il-caffe-aiuta-a-prevenire-e-a-rallentare-il-parkinson/
Does Drinking Coffee Reduce the Incidence of Parkinson’s Disease? Otolaryngology, College of Life Sciences, Leicester Medical School, 2023
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9883660/
Caffeine as symptomatic treatment for Parkinson disease (Café-PD), Department of Neurology, Montreal General Hospital, 2017
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5664303/
