Parkinson's disease is a chronic neurological illness affecting more than 1.5 million Americans, according to the American Parkinson Disease Foundation. Coordination of movement is impaired in Parkinson's disease, the main symptoms being slow movement, rigidity and tremor. While there is no cure for this disease, symptoms are managed with Parkinson's disease medications.
Significance
Parkinson's disease can cause a number of unwanted complications. Parkinson's can impair bowel motility and cause constipation, according to the National Parkinson Foundation. In addition, the disease is associated with depression, which can cause loss of appetite and weight loss, resulting in malnutrition. Furthermore, Parkinson's disease increases your risk of vitamin D deficiency, according to the University of Maryland Health Center. Vitamin D deficiency contributes to bone thinning, increasing the likelihood of a fracture if you fall.
Suggestions
Eat a high-fiber diet and drink lots of water to avoid constipation. Eat a balanced diet that meets your daily nutritional needs to maintain a healthy weight, and consult your doctor if you are losing weight. Take a nutritional supplement if you are concerned that your diet is not meeting your vitamin and mineral requirements. Ensure that your diet contains foods rich in vitamin D to avoid a vitamin D deficiency. Take a vitamin D supplement if concerned that your dietary intake is insufficient.
Considerations
Medications commonly prescribed in Parkinson's disease are associated with a number of side effects. Parkinson's medications can make you feel nauseated and cause loss of appetite, according to the National Parkinson Foundation. This can increase your risk of weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. Parkinson's medications can also cause dehydration. Furthermore, these medications can interact with nutritional supplements. Seek advice from your doctor before commencing a nutritional supplement.
Expert Insight
Levodopa is commonly prescribed in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. The absorption of levodopa into your body through the gut is decreased by the presence of protein. The University of Maryland Health Center recommends that you avoid eating protein-rich meals at the same time you take your levodopa. Ask your doctor whether this applies to you before altering your protein intake.
Warning
Fiber is good for your health. However, if you increase your fiber intake too fast, you may experience bloating and stomach cramps. Increase your fiber intake gradually, and don't add too much. Fiber consumption in excess of 50 g to 60 g can cause vitamin and mineral deficiency, according to the American Dietetic Association.
References
- American Parkinson Disease Association: Basic Information About Parkinson's Disease
- National Parkinson Foundation: What are Some Common Nutritional Concerns for People with Parkinson's Disease
- National Parkinson Foundation: Depression
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Parkinson's Disease
- Mayo Clinic: Parkinson's Disease; Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- Parkinson's Disease Foundation: Nutrition
