What are the 4 surprising things to prevent Parkinson's disease?

4 Surprising Ways to Help Prevent Parkinson’s Disease

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent Parkinson’s disease, emerging research suggests that everyday choices may play a bigger role than we think. A recent Washington Post article highlights four surprising lifestyle adjustments that could help reduce your risk—some of which might surprise you.

Good news for coffee lovers: drinking caffeinated coffee or tea may actually be protective. Multiple studies have linked regular caffeine consumption with a lower risk of Parkinson’s, possibly due to caffeine’s effect on brain pathways involved in motor control.

That “freshly cleaned” scent from dry-cleaned clothes might come at a cost. Many dry cleaners use a chemical called perchloroethylene (PCE), which has been associated with a higher risk of Parkinson’s when exposure is prolonged. If you use dry-cleaning services, ask about their methods—or consider switching to hand-washable clothing.

Non-organic produce may carry pesticide residues linked to neurological damage. Long-term exposure to certain pesticides, particularly those used in conventional farming, has been tied to an increased risk of Parkinson’s. Opting for organic fruits and vegetables—and thoroughly washing all produce—can help reduce this risk.

Tap water can contain contaminants, especially if you live near agricultural areas or golf courses, where pesticides and other chemicals are commonly used. Using a high-quality water filter at home may help remove harmful substances, including those potentially linked to Parkinson’s. If your water source is near a golf course, filtering becomes even more important due to frequent pesticide runoff.

These steps won’t guarantee prevention, but they reflect a growing understanding: small changes today could support brain health for years to come.