Exploring the Potential Role of Supplements for Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders (13 min.)

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Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement. It is characterized by tremors, muscle rigidity, bradykinesia (slowed movement), and postural instability. The disease results from the gradual loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, leading to motor and non-motor symptoms that impact daily life. While the exact cause remains unknown, genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role.

Beyond Parkinson’s Disease, there are other movement disorders that fall under the same umbrella, including:

• Multiple System Atrophy (MSA): A rare neurodegenerative disorder that affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic body functions like blood pressure, digestion, sweating, and movement.
• Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP): A condition marked by difficulties with balance, eye movements, and speech, often mistaken for Parkinson’s Disease.
• Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD): A disorder causing stiffness, muscle contractions, and difficulties with movement and cognition.
• Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB): A condition that combines Parkinsonian movement symptoms with cognitive decline and visual hallucinations.

Additionally, several movement disorders are not connected to Parkinson’s Disease but still fall under the category of movement disorders, including:

• Essential Tremor (ET): A neurological disorder that causes involuntary, rhythmic shaking, often in the hands, without the other motor symptoms of Parkinson’s. Essential tremors are the most common of all movement disorders and are inherited in 50-70 percent of cases.
• Huntington’s Disease: A genetic disorder that causes progressive movement, cognitive, and psychiatric disturbances.
• Dystonia: A condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, leading to abnormal postures and repetitive movements.
• Tourette Syndrome (TS): A neurological disorder that involves repetitive, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics.
• Ataxia: A group of disorders that affect coordination and balance due to damage in the cerebellum.
• Myoclonus: Sudden, brief, involuntary jerking or twitching of a single muscle or group of muscles.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): This condition causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them, particularly at night. It is considered both a movement disorder and a sleep disorder.

While medical treatments, such as medications and physical therapy, are central to managing symptoms, could vitamins and dietary supplements complement these strategies?

Are There Supplements for Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders?

Sadly, vitamins and dietary supplements do not appear to slow disease progression or improve motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease unless a deficiency is present. However, some supplements may support non-motor symptoms, such as sleep disturbances and depression. This article attempts to provide an evidence-based overview of supplements for Parkinson’s Disease and movement disorders, helping to make informed decisions alongside your neurologist and other health care providers.

1. Melatonin

While not all people with movement disorders have disrupted sleep, melatonin supplements may help improve sleep in people with Parkinson’s disease, as the body’s natural production of melatonin often decreases with the condition. A tiny 3-month pilot study of 12 adults with Parkinson’s Disease found 2 mg of prolonged-release melatonin two hours before bedtime could help regulate the sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.† This may be particularly beneficial for those experiencing insomnia or fragmented sleep,† which are common in Parkinson’s disease. However, it is important to note that melatonin does not improve motor skills or affect the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms related to movement.

Cooper Complete Melatonin Supplements: Cooper Complete Prolonged Release Melatonin tablets contain 5 mg of melatonin in a two-phased delivery system that releases melatonin quickly and then steadily over six hours. A Quick Release tablet with 3 mg of melatonin is scored for easy splitting into 1.5 mg increments.

2. Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency is more common in people with Parkinson’s Disease and other movement disorders (such as Huntington’s disease and Restless Leg Syndrome) than those without the condition. The deficiency is thought to be linked to less sun exposure due to reduced mobility. A 2019 study recruited 182 adults with PD and 185 adults without PD and measured vitamin D levels and bone density of the lumbar spine and femoral neck. They found that subjects with PD had significantly lower vitamin D levels and lower bone density (in both the lumbar spine and femoral neck) compared to those without PD. Participants with lower levels of vitamin D in the PD group also had significantly higher frequencies of falls. More research is needed to determine whether maintaining vitamin D levels in the normal range can support musculoskeletal health and potentially improve balance and mobility. (Bonus: Review the vitamin D table to learn about the vitamin ranges and what’s optimal.)

Vitamin D primarily comes from sunshine, fortified foods, and supplementation. Cooper Clinic recommends a baseline of 2,000 IU (50 mcg) for all adults. Since vitamin D levels vary individually, it’s important to get vitamin D tested regularly to determine the amount to take. An additional intake of 1,000-5,000 IU (25 mcg–125 mcg) or more may be appropriate for adults with a deficiency, but a blood test is essential to tailor supplementation.

Cooper Complete Vitamin D3 Supplements: Cooper Complete multivitamins contain 2,000 IU (50 mcg) of vitamin D3. Standalone options of 1,000 (25 mcg) and 5,000 IU (125 mcg) are available in tiny softgels, and Vitamin D Liquid Drops contain 1,000 (25 mcg).

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), found in fatty fish and marine algae, may help reduce inflammation and protect nerve cells.† Some research has linked omega-3 intake to improved cognitive function and reduced neuroinflammation in individuals with neurodegenerative diseases.† Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA found in fish oil, may help reduce inflammation and protect nerve cells.†

Omega-3 Supplements and Depression in Parkinson’s Disease

A small double-blind, randomized pilot study investigated the effects of omega-3 supplementation in 31 PD patients with depression over 12 weeks. The results indicated that those taking fish oil supplements, with or without antidepressants, showed improvement in depressive symptoms. This suggests that omega-3s may serve as an effective adjunct therapy for depression in PD patients, but a larger study is needed to see if the results are replicated.

Omega-3 Supplements and Anxiety in Movement Disorders

While specific studies on omega-3s’ effects on anxiety in people living with movement disorders are limited, broader research has shown that omega-3 supplements may help reduce symptoms of clinical anxiety in various populations.† A meta-analysis of 19 clinical trials with 2,240 participants from 11 countries concluded that omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) might effectively alleviate clinical anxiety symptoms.† While more research is needed to fully understand the impact of omega-3 supplements on depression and anxiety in individuals with Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders, existing studies suggest potential benefits, particularly concerning depressive symptoms.​

Work to incorporate omega-3-rich foods, such as salmon, sardines, anchovies and tuna (including canned), flaxseeds, chia seeds, edamame and walnuts, into the diet. 1,000-2,000 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily is commonly recommended for anti-inflammatory support. (Read about the overall health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.)

Cooper Complete Advanced Omega-3 Supplements: Two softgels deliver 720 mg of EPA and 480 mg of DHA per serving, while one teaspoon of Advanced Omega-3 Liquid contains 1,300 mg of EPA and 850 mg of DHA.

4. Vitamin B12

People with Parkinson’s disease (PD) often have lower levels of vitamin B12, which may contribute to the progression of both motor and non-motor symptoms. Research suggests lower B12 levels are associated with faster disease progression, particularly in mobility decline and cognitive impairment. However, it remains unclear whether B12 supplementation can directly slow PD progression. Instead, its primary benefit may be in managing neuropathy, a common complication in PD, especially for those on levodopa treatment, which can contribute to B12 deficiency.

A 2018 study found that lower baseline vitamin B12 levels were linked with faster mobility decline in Parkinson’s patients. The study followed 680 recently diagnosed Parkinson’s patients over two years. The participants with higher B12 levels maintained better walking speed and balance over time.

A blood test can assess vitamin B12 levels. While the accepted range for vitamin B12 is between 254 and 1,320 picograms per milliliter of blood serum, Cooper Clinic physicians prefer to see a level of at least 450 picograms per milliliter of blood serum.

Cooper Complete Vitamin B12 Supplements: One capsule contains 1,000 mcg of vitamin B12 in the more easily absorbable methylcobalamin form.

5. B Complex (B6, B9 (Folic Acid), and B12)

B vitamins are crucial for brain health and may help reduce homocysteine levels, which are often elevated in people with Parkinson’s Disease. High homocysteine levels can be linked to worsening symptoms and increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Vitamin B6, folic acid, and vitamin B12 support healthy homocysteine levels.†

Cooper Complete Advanced B Complex: Provides 50 mg of vitamin B6, 400 mcg of methyl folate (B9), and 500 mcg of methylcobalamin (B12) in addition to the rest of the B vitamins.

Note: While maintaining adequate intake through a B-complex supplement can support nerve health, excessive intake of vitamin B6 (>200 mg/day) should be avoided due to the risk of neuropathy.

6. Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral that helps the body in many ways. Scientists are studying how magnesium supplements might help people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and other movement disorders. Here are some possible benefits:

• May Help Protect the Brain—Magnesium helps keep brain cells healthy and may protect against damage caused by diseases like Parkinson’s.† Some research suggests that people with PD have lower magnesium levels in their brains.
• May Help With Muscle Stiffness and Cramps—People with movement disorders often have muscle stiffness, tremors, or cramps. Magnesium helps muscles relax, which could reduce these symptoms and improve movement.†
• May Support Better Sleep—Many people with PD and other movement disorders have trouble sleeping. Magnesium may help calm the nervous system and make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.†
• May Reduce Anxiety and Depression—Magnesium plays a role in mood and brain function. Low levels of magnesium have been linked to anxiety and depression, which are common in people with PD. Taking magnesium may help improve mood and reduce stress.†
• May Help With Brain Inflammation—Inflammation in the brain is linked to Parkinson’s and other movement disorders. Studies show that low magnesium levels are linked to higher inflammation in the brain, which can make diseases like PD worse.†

Cooper Complete Magnesium Supplements: Cooper Complete Magnesium Glycinate contains 120 mg of magnesium per pill, while Cognitive Health (Magnesium L-Threonate) contains 2 grams of Magnesium L-Threonate (Magtein®) per serving of two capsules. Magnesium L-threonate is a form of magnesium known for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, thereby increasing magnesium levels in the brain. Cooper Complete Multivitamins contain 200 mg of magnesium (as magnesium oxide monohydrate) in the one-tablet-per-day multivitamin Basic One, and 660 mg in the Original comprehensive daily multivitamin.

7. Probiotics

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement, but research increasingly suggests that the gut may play a significant role in its development and progression. The gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication network between the gastrointestinal (GI) and central nervous systems, has gained attention in Parkinson’s research. Many people with PD experience digestive issues, such as constipation and gut dysbiosis (an imbalance of gut bacteria), long before motor symptoms appear. This has led researchers to investigate whether probiotics—beneficial bacteria that support gut health—might help individuals with Parkinson’s. Probiotics may be beneficial in several ways:

• Improve digestion and constipation†
• Support dopamine production in the gut†
• Reduce inflammation†

Cooper Complete Advanced Daily Probiotic: Advanced Daily Probiotic contains a proprietary blend of four strains and 35 billion CFU probiotics to support gut microflora and immune health.† Each probiotic is individually enclosed in an easy-to-open nitrogen-purged blister packet that protects it from heat, moisture and oxygen. A serving is one capsule daily, or as directed by your health care provider.

8. Fiber

Constipation is a common complaint of people living with Parkinson’s Disease because PD slows down the movement of food through the digestive system. Oatmeal, apples and flaxseeds contain soluble fiber, which helps soften stool and feeds good gut bacteria. Psyllium husk and guar gum are good supplement sources of soluble fiber. Wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains are food sources of insoluble fiber, which adds bulk to stool and speeds up digestion.

If you are taking fiber supplements, drink plenty of water or other fluids and take them at least one hour after levodopa medications so they don’t interfere with medication absorption.

Cooper Complete Microbiome Fiber Supplement: Microbiome Fiber contains 6 grams of soluble fiber per scoop. The supplement is not gritty and fully dissolves in water or any other hot or cold beverage. This soluble fiber is particularly nice for people who may drink or swallow more slowly, as it doesn’t become gelatinous or thickened after mixing.

9. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Coenzyme Q10 plays a key role in mitochondrial function and energy production, and research suggests that people with Parkinson’s Disease may have lower CoQ10 levels. While early studies indicated that CoQ10 supplementation could slow Parkinson’s disease progression, more extensive trials have not been positive. A 2002 Phase II Clinical Trial involving 80 early-stage PD patients evaluated CoQ10 at 300, 600, and 1,200 mg/day dosages. The results indicated that CoQ10 was safe and well-tolerated and suggested slowing functional decline, with higher doses showing more significant effects. To confirm earlier findings, a larger QE3 Phase III trial published in 2014 tested high doses of CoQ10 (1,200 and 2,400 mg/day) in early PD patients. Unfortunately, this trial was halted early due to a lack of observed clinical benefit, indicating that CoQ10 did not slow disease progression. ​ ​

The 2CARE Trial (Coenzyme Q10 in Huntington’s Disease Study) was a large phase III clinical trial designed to evaluate the effectiveness of high-dose Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in slowing the progression of Huntington’s disease (HD). The objective was to determine whether high-dose CoQ10 (2,400 mg/day) supplements could slow a functional decline in people with early to mid-stage HD. 609 adults with early or mid-stage HD were recruited and assigned to either receive 2,400 mg of CoQ10 daily or a placebo for up to five years. However, the trial was terminated early, after interim data showed that CoQ10 did not provide a significant benefit in slowing disease neurodegeneration progression in HD.

FAQ: Supplements for Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders

Are there supplements that someone with Parkinson’s Disease should not take?

St. John’s Wort, a common herbal supplement often used for depression, should not be taken as it interacts with various prescription medications for Parkinson’s.

Iron supplements (including iron in multivitamins) can bind with levodopa, decreasing its absorption and effectiveness. If iron must be taken, allow two hours between it and levodopa.

What foods can help supply needed vitamins and minerals?

A healthy diet provides needed vitamins and minerals. For example,

• Leafy greens are sources of magnesium and folate
• Fatty fish is rich in omega-3s
• Nuts and seeds provide B vitamins and healthy fats
• Dairy, including fortified dairy foods, provides vitamin D and calcium

Can exercise help people with Parkinson’s Disease or other movement disorders?

Thirty minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week is one of the best things someone living with Parkinson’s Disease or another movement disorder can do to prioritize their overall health and well-being. Regular physical activity offers numerous benefits, including improved mobility, balance, strength, and overall quality of life. In addition to potentially alleviating or lessening motor symptoms (such as tremors, stiffness, and slowness), exercise can positively improve non-motor symptoms, including depression, constipation, and cognitive challenges. Cooper Fitness Center, a companion company in the Cooper Aerobics family of companies, developed a group fitness program called Move. Laugh. Connect. that addresses physical, emotional, and social dimensions in a supportive group setting. Participants engage in various exercises to preserve functionality, enhance motor control (including balance, coordination, rhythm, and gait training), improve muscular endurance and strength, and engage in brain fitness activities like memory recall and reaction time exercises.

Can supplements slow the progression of Parkinson’s Disease?

No supplements can stop or reverse the progression of PD. However, some (like omega-3s, vitamin D, and magnesium) may support brain health and reduce inflammation.†

How do Parkinson’s medications affect vitamin and mineral levels?

PD medications may lead to deficiencies:

• Levodopa may lower vitamin B6, B12, folate, and iron levels
• Dopamine agonists (pramipexole, ropinirole, rotigotine, and apomorphine) may affect calcium and vitamin D, increasing the risk of osteoporosis
• Long-term medication use may also contribute to gut issues that affect nutrient absorption

Conclusion

Supplements for Parkinson’s Disease and movement disorders, such as CoQ10, vitamin D, omega-3s, and B vitamins, may help address nutrient deficiencies and support neurological health. However, not all supplements are appropriate for everyone, and some may pose risks or interact with medications. Working closely with your neurologist and other health care providers is essential to determine the right combination of supplements.

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Cooper Complete March 20, 2025