Dietary Advice For Parkinson’s Disease

By: on December 31st, 2016 in

Dietary Advice for Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological problem which affects the brain and decreases the activity of neurotransmitter dopamine (chemical messenger) which leads to movement problems, rigidity, tremors, balancing problems and other indirect problems like constipation, depression, fatigue, sleep and loss of memory etc.

Some foods may interact with drugs so avoiding these foods prevent from the worse situation. Drugs should be taken in an empty stomach or if taking before a meal then it must be before 30 mins and if taking after a meal then there must be a gap of at least 60 mins so that drugs reach small intestine for absorption.

Drugs which interact with foods:

  • Levodopa (Sinemet): A very high protein and iron rich diet interfere with the absorption of this drug. So, protein rich diet like red meats, fish, paneer, eggs should be limited and better to avoid at dinner.
  • MIO-B Inhibitors (Rasagiline or Selegiline) induces tyramine production and thus increases blood pressure so tyramine rich food like cured and fermented fish and meats, aged cheese, sauerkraut, soybean and its product, red wine and tap beer etc. should be restricted partially.

Some Dietary changes which can improve Parkinson’s disease like:

  • Fibre rich fruits with peels and vegetables help to combat constipation which is a common problem of Parkinson’s patients. Some sources of high fiber foods are-Split peas, lentils, black beans, lima beans, peas, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, ladies finger, turnips, raspberries, blackberries, avocados, pears, bran flakes, whole wheat pasta, oatmeal etc.
  • Plenty of water and fluids with salt helps to overcome low blood pressure, dry mouth and thirst which are common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. But before including plenty of fluids consult with a doctor if you are suffering from any cardiac or renal disease. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages which steal water from the body and make us dehydrated and lowers our blood pressure. You can also suck sour candies to keep salivated.
  • Consume foods which enhance swallowing and avoid problems like coughing, choking and food sticking. Seasoned, cold and sour foods might help to recover from the problem. You can modify the consistency of food like liquids, pureed, semisolids, minced, chopped instead of regular solid meals which are easy to swallow and requires less chewing . You can introduce foods like banana milkshake, buttermilk, dal soup chicken soup, tomato soup, scrambled eggs, pureed veggies, egg nog, poach, mashed potatoes, yogurt, custard, puddings, cheese, honey, boiled apples, ripe bananas, juices, sauté or minced vegetables, stews, suji porridge, Dalia, khichri, oats, soupy noodles, light fishes, ice creams etc .  You can avoid choking, stucking, and coughing problems by having your food in sitting position with smaller bites and with a pace between each morsel.
  • Antioxidant and potassium-rich diets like tomato juice, milk, orange juice, banana, apples, yogurt, white beans, broccoli, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, peas, berries, pickle juice, yellow mustard, turmeric, quinine containing syrups are helpful in reducing cramping which is a painful situation of Parkinson’s disease.
  • Omega-3 Fats are the healthy fats which protect the brain from Parkinson’s as these are anti-inflammatory in nature and reduce the inflammation. Omega-3 fats also act as a good mood enhancer and help to recover depression. Sources of Omega 3 fats are- Salmon, Mackerel, Herrings, Sardines, Walnuts, Cod liver oil, Chia seeds, Egg yolks, Hemp seeds etc.
  • Vit-D rich foods improve the brain function by controlling neurons and slowing the progression of disease. It has anti-inflammatory factor. Sunlight is the richest source of Vit-D and others from food are fatty fishes, cheese, egg yolks, mushrooms, raw milk etc.
  • Magnesium Rich foods help to relax from muscle cramps and weakness, insomnia, constipation, depression, anxiety etc which are the common problems in Parkinson’s. Magnesium is a sleep inducer. Sources of magnesium are dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, beans, whole grains, avocados, yogurt, bananas, dried fruit and dark chocolates etc.
  • Eliminate toxic products like alcohol and caffeine which interferes with the body’s detoxification process.
  • Homocysteine like folic acid, Vit-B-12, Vit-B-6, Zinc and Tri-methyl glycine are higher in Parkinson’s patients so limiting homocysteine helps to improve the condition.

Nausea is a common problem so here are some tips to avoid nausea-

  • Drink slowly between meals. Avoid drinking during meals.
  • Eat bland foods and avoid fried, greasy and extra sugary foods.
  • Eat slowly and small and frequent meals.
  • Avoid mixing hot and cold foods.
  • Eat cold foods or foods kept in room temperature as flavours of hot foods induce nausea.

Natural Remedies:

  • Peppers contain nicotine which helps to relieve from Parkinson’s.
  • White or Green tea contains Polyphenols which prevents brain cells from getting damage from Parkinson’s.
  • Turmeric contains a compound Curcumin which is effective against Parkinson’s.

Including Dietary modifications and medication exercise is helpful for regaining movements and balance.