Parkinson's disease is a neurological condition affecting movement. Symptoms of Parkinson's disease include tremors, rigidity and slowness of movement. Parkinson's disease occurs when dopamine producing neurons in the brain break down. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter, is responsible for the transmission of signals within the brain that help to coordinate movement. According to the American Parkinson Disease Association, more than a million Americans live with this disease and the National Parkinson Foundation estimates that between 50,000 and 60,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. Without a cure for Parkinson's disease, those affected must rely on medications that relieve symptoms. In addition, balanced nutrition can play a key role in maintaining good health.
Significance
Parkinson's disease puts you at risk of weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, dehydration and constipation. You may lose weight due to Parkinson's disease medications that can cause nausea and appetite loss. In addition, depression, a known complication of Parkinson's disease, is associated with loss of appetite. Lack of appetite and weight loss can lead to nutritional deficits. Furthermore, the University of Maryland Health Center reports that reduced vitamin D is not uncommon in Parkinson's disease; this puts you at risk of bone thinning. Parkinson's disease medications can also make you dehydrated, and the impaired bowel movements associated with Parkinson's disease can cause constipation. Consequently, if you have Parkinson's disease, it is vital to maintain a healthy, balanced diet.
Features
Eat a balanced diet to avoid nutritional deficiency and weight loss. Consume foods rich in vitamin D and calcium to maintain bone strength. Take a nutritional supplement if you are concerned that your diet alone is not providing adequate vitamins and minerals. Drink lots of fluids. This will prevent dehydration and help you to avoid becoming constipated. Ensure that your diet is high in fiber. Fiber has many health benefits, and if you have Parkinson's disease, a high fiber diet is vital for avoiding constipation. Whole grains, fruit and vegetables are good sources of fiber.
Considerations
Although vitamin and mineral supplements can help to prevent a nutritional deficiency, they can interfere with Parkinson's disease medications. Do not commence a nutritional supplement without consulting your doctor first. A high fiber diet is essential if you have Parkinson's disease. However, do not increase the fiber in your diet too quickly, as this can lead to stomach upset: bloating and stomach cramps. In addition, too much fiber can lead to impaired mineral absorption. Consult your doctor for advice on how to increase the fiber in your diet safely.
Warning
If you are concerned about weight loss, is it vital to seek medical advice in order to avoid complications.
Evidence suggests that protein in your diet can interfere with the uptake of Levodopa, the Parkinson's disease medication, rendering it less effective. Your doctor may advise you to eat less protein, or to have protein in meals that do not coincide with when you take your medications. Contact your doctor if you have any concerns regarding this issue.
Expert Insight
According to the University of Maryland Health Center, fava beans contain levodopa. This may be beneficial to some, providing further levodopa in addition to already prescribed levodopa. However, the additional levodopa provided by fava beans could have dangerous consequences in certain individuals, increasing the risk of levodopa overdose. In view of this risk, it is vital to discuss this option first with your doctor and get approval before incorporating fava beans into your diet.
References
- Parkinson's Disease Foundation: What is Parkinson's Disease?
- University of Maryland Health Center: Parkinson's Disease
- American Parkinson Disease Association: Basic Information About Parkinson's Disease
- National Parkinson Foundation: Parkinson's Disease Overview
- National Parkinson Foundation: How Do You Maintain A Healthy Diet?
- National Parkinson Foundation: Common Nutritional Concerns for People With PD
