Hello, I am 53 years old and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease last winter. I have always led a very active life and still do. I had felt that something had been wrong with my body for a couple of years. After various tests, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s last winter. I have responded well to my medication. I now take 400mg of levodopa a day, divided into four doses, and also take vitamin B12, probiotics and magnesium before bed. Since my diagnosis, I’ve continued with paragliding, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, yoga, cycling, running and more, and I feel at my best when I’ve been exercising. My questions: Is it beneficial to take probiotics, B12 and magnesium when you have Parkinson’s? Is it a good idea to take an extra 50 mg dose of Quick Mite before exercising? And my final question is: is melatonin a good option to help me sleep on those evenings when I find it difficult to fall asleep?

There is no definitive scientific evidence supporting the use of probiotics for Parkinson’s, but a great deal of research is currently being carried out on this. We do use vitamin B12 to some extent in the treatment of Parkinson’s, as B12 deficiency can occur because extra B12 is required for the metabolism of L-dopa. Magnesium depends on the form in which it is taken and the purpose for which it is taken. L-dopa tablets contain magnesium stearate as an excipient, and in that case it is beneficial. Magnesium in other forms can be used to treat constipation, but may possibly reduce L-dopa levels.

Taking an extra dose of Madopark Quick Mite before exercise may be beneficial for some people who report that they otherwise experience more Parkinson’s symptoms after exercise. It cannot be generally recommended before exercise, but there’s no harm in trying it out to see what works for you.

Yes, melatonin can help with sleep difficulties. /Dag Nyholm