Ginger-PD

Ginger is known for its beneficial effects on gastrointestinal symptoms. Possible mechanisms of action include anti-inflammatory effects and boosting levels of ghrelin, a gastric hormone that promotes gut motility and appetite. Our previous research suggests that people with Parkinson’s and people at high risk of developing PD have low ghrelin levels and this is linked to higher levels of inflammation in the blood. The Ginger-PD study is testing whether ginger supplements can increase ghrelin levels and reduce inflammation in PD. 24 people with Parkinson’s, 24 people with REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder (at high risk of developing Parkinson’s), and 24 controls will take ginger supplements for 12 weeks. We will measure ghrelin levels and inflammation in blood samples, as well as assessing changes in gut function and clinical symptoms during the study. If the findings of the study are positive, this will provide support for a larger scale clinical trial to investigate whether ginger modifies Parkinson’s symptoms and progression.

The Ginger-PD study is funded by Parkinson’s UK and supported by the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre.