Study Links Gut Microbiome Imbalance To Parkinson's Disease

And now, a study1 published in Nature Communications linked microbiome imbalances to Parkinson's disease (PD), further solidifying the critical importance of the gut-brain connection.

As Payami explained, "This is exciting research, as metagenomics is a new, albeit fast-evolving field, and the resources, methods, and tools, while state-of-the-art, are still in development." This study provides a concrete path forward for investigating the link between these specific bacterial imbalances and PD. "We anticipate that in the near future, we will have the tools and the analytic power to…investigate the potential in manipulating the microbiome to prevent, treat, and halt the progression of PD," Payami continued.

Note that this is a preliminary study in an emerging field, so there's a lot more to learn before any potential related treatments become a reality. In the meantime, there are ample ways to support general microbiome balance and gut health, such as: 

Inoculate the gut with good bacteria to promote overall balance. Here are the 9 best probiotics to consider, according to a nutrition Ph.D.

Prebiotic fiber is a type of fiber that acts as food for good bugs in your GI tract. This can help your healthy bugs stay healthy and prevent "bad" bugs from overgrowing and taking over. (Find our favorite kinds here.)

Nature provides us with an abundance of healthy bacteria—but we have to actually get a little dirty to take advantage of them. You can do this by gardening, hiking, or even forest bathing. 

A new study links gut microbiome imbalances to the development of Parkinson's disease. In the not-too-distant future, we might be able to help treat PD by targeting gut bacteria, but for now, it's wise to invest in gut-friendly practices daily.