The National Parkinson Foundation reports that Parkinson's disease affects one million people in the United States. Parkinson's disease is caused by degeneration of the cells within the brain responsible for the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter. This leads to dopamine depletion. Dopamine is involved in signal transmissions within the brain that coordinate movement. Insufficient dopamine impairs movement, classically causing tremor and rigidity. No cure for Parkinson's disease exists. However, medications prescribed by your doctor can control symptoms. In addition, maintaining a healthy diet assists in overall well-being.
Step 1
Eat foods containing vitamin D and calcium. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, people with Parkinson's disease generally have reduced levels of vitamin D, putting them at risk of bone thinning, known as osteoporosis. Since Parkinson's disease increases your chances of falling, a diet rich in vitamin D and calcium will maintain bone strength, reducing the likelihood of a fracture if you fall.
Step 2
Eat a high fiber diet. Parkinson's disease can slow down bowel movement and cause constipation. A high fiber diet of fruit, vegetables and whole grains helps to prevent constipation.
Step 3
Drink plenty of water. The National Parkinson Foundation reports that certain Parkinson's disease medications can induce dehydration, so keep well hydrated. In addition, drinking plenty of water will help to prevent constipation.
Step 4
Add fava beans to your diet. Levodopa, a drug used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, is present in fava beans. In addition to prescribed levodopa, it may be helpful to obtain further levodopa from your diet.
Step 5
Eat more fish. Fish contains omega-3, which may have protective properties for people with Parkinson's disease. Examples of fish containing omega-3 include salmon and mackerel.
Step 6
Follow a low fat diet. A healthy low fat diet is important for everyone, including people with Parkinson's disease. Maintaining a diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol reduces the risk of heart disease.
Tips and Warnings
- Protein can inhibit Levodopa uptake in your gut. Eat less protein and avoid protein around the time that you take Levodopa to improve uptake. Herbs can be beneficial. Evidence suggests that ginkgo may assist in dopamine transport. Cowhage contains levodopa, and brahmi enhances neurological function. Contact your doctor if you are considering taking any of these herbs. Vitamin supplements can be included in your diet if you are concerned you are not getting enough vitamins and minerals from food alone.
- Poor appetite and nausea can cause weight loss in Parkinson's disease, resulting in immune and dietary deficiencies. Contact your doctor if you are concerned about weight loss. Introduce more fiber gradually into your diet. If introduced too quickly, fiber can cause bloating and stomach cramps. Fava beans could be dangerous for some individuals. The extra levodopa consumed when eating fava beans may cause dangerous elevations in levodopa levels. Seek advice from your doctor before introducing fava beans into your diet. Get advice from your doctor before taking any nutritional supplements, including vitamins, as lots of supplements have the potential to interact with Parkinson's disease medications (Reference 2). It is vital to consult your doctor before implementing any of the dietary advice suggested or making any changes to your diet.
References
- National Parkinson Foundation: Parkinson's Disease Overview
- University Of Maryland Medical Center: Parkinson's Disease
- National Parkinson Foundation: Some Common Nutritional Concerns for People with Parkinson's Disease
- The Mayo Clinic: Parkinson's Disease, Lifestlye and Home Remedies
- Parkinson's Disease Foundation: Nutrition
- National Parkinson Foundation: How to Maintain a Healthy Diet
