An interview with Max Tomlinson, Naturopathic Functional Medicine
Biography
I am Max Tomlinson, a naturopathic functional medicine practitioner, clinical nutritionist, and medical herbalist with over 38 years of experience. My career has been dedicated to natural medicine, with a particular focus on neurological health, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. I have authored books, appeared in media outlets in the UK and Australia, and developed health-focused products, including MacuDopa—a natural levodopa solution for Parkinson’s.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
My advocacy focuses on increasing awareness of Parkinson’s disease and expanding access to natural, research-backed treatments. Through MacuDopa, I aim to provide an alternative to synthetic levodopa, supporting better patient outcomes while reducing side effects like dyskinesia. I also work with patient communities, researchers, and healthcare providers to promote integrative approaches to Parkinson’s care.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
My passion lies in providing natural, effective solutions for neurological conditions. Through my clinical work, I have seen the limitations of conventional Parkinson’s treatments and was driven to develop MacuDopa as an alternative. The hope for a cure drives my efforts to support research, educate patients, and advocate for better care options.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when seeing your Advocacy?
People with Parkinson’s are looking for improved symptom management, a better quality of life, and alternatives to standard medications that may cause significant side effects. Many seek a holistic approach that includes nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle modifications alongside conventional treatment.
What type of training and how long are the programs?
I provide education through consultations, online seminars, and training programs for both patients and practitioners. The training varies from one-time educational sessions to ongoing support programs focused on optimising dopamine metabolism through nutrition and supplementation.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
My advocacy provides patients with knowledge and access to alternative treatments that can enhance their well-being. Many individuals have reported better motor control, reduced dyskinesia, and an overall improvement in quality of life after integrating my recommendations.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
I aim to expand access to MacuDopa globally, fund more clinical research on natural levodopa sources, and establish integrative Parkinson’s care centres. I also hope to support farming initiatives to cultivate Mucuna pruriens in Africa, providing local treatments and economic opportunities.
What events do you participate in?
I attend and speak at medical conferences, patient advocacy events, and educational webinars. I will be attending the IFM Conference in San Diego in 2025 to discuss integrative approaches to neurological health.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
Caregivers benefit from education on holistic care strategies, reducing the burden of managing Parkinson’s. Providing them with more tools to support their loved ones leads to better outcomes for both patients and caregivers.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
People can visit www.macudopausa.com to learn more and get in touch. max@macudopa.com
- Twitter: https://x.com/MacuDopa
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/macudopamucuna/
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Advocacy starts with education—sharing information, supporting research, and speaking up about alternative treatment options. Getting involved in patient communities and fundraising efforts can also make a difference.
If you could add any questions to this interview that you may want others to learn about, what would the question(s) be?
- How does diet influence Parkinson’s symptoms?
- What role does gut health play in Parkinson’s?
- Can lifestyle modifications slow the progression of Parkinson’s?
In your opinion, what is the key to effective advocacy?
Authenticity, education, and collaboration. Effective advocacy requires passion, credible information, and the ability to work with both patients and professionals to drive meaningful change.
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
Increased corporate sponsorship, patient-driven initiatives, and targeted research funding are crucial. Expanding the conversation beyond the Parkinson’s community to broader neurological and ageing research can also attract more support.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living (e.g. exercise and alternative remedies)?
As an ultra-runner, I strongly advocate exercise for neurological health. I also focus on a neuroprotective diet, targeted supplementation, and stress management techniques like meditation.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
Neurological health affects us all, whether directly or through loved ones. Understanding and supporting Parkinson’s research benefits broader public health and may lead to breakthroughs for other neurodegenerative conditions.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
Yes, I have seen the impact of YOPD Parkinson’s firsthand, which further fuels my commitment to finding better solutions.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life, which song would it be?
“Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey—it reflects resilience, hope, and pushing forward despite challenges.
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
“There is always hope. Science evolves, and so do treatment options. Stay informed, stay proactive, and never stop seeking better solutions.”