435 - The Hidden Link Between Gardening and Parkinson’s Disease with Dr. Ray Dorsey, author of the Parkinson's Plan

Parkinson’s disease is the fastest-growing neurological disorder in the world—and according to neurologist and author Dr. Ray Dorsey, our environment may be playing a much larger role than we think.

In this conversation, Dr. Dorsey shares key insights from his book The Parkinson’s Plan, including how certain pesticides and chemicals—some of which are still used in U.S. agriculture today—are correlated with higher Parkinson’s risk. As home gardeners, we may be making choices to avoid chemicals, but this episode highlights what we still need to be aware of.

In this episode, we cover:

• What Parkinson’s does to the body and why it’s growing so fast

• The link between common agricultural chemicals and neurological risk

• What pyrethrins, rotenone, paraquat, and chlorpyrifos are—and where they may show up

• Why weed killers and even wooden fences may pose a concern

• How to navigate produce choices when organic isn’t always accessible

• Why well water and contaminated soil may be hidden risks

• What to know about dry cleaning solvents like TCE and PCE

• Dr. Dorsey’s top tips for reducing your risk (including what to prioritize)

• Why coffee lovers can celebrate their morning habit

Whether you grow your own food or buy it at the grocery store, this conversation offers an eye-opening look at how to reduce your exposure and make more informed choices.

📘 Learn more about Dr. Dorsey and his book The Parkinson’s Plan: https://parkinsonsplan.org

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