Parkinson's Disease: Eating Right

• The basics of eating right with Parkinson's disease
• Medication and food interactions
• Controlling nausea
• Relieving thirst/dry mouth
• I am too tired to eat in the evening, what should I do?
• I don't feel like eating, what should I do?
• How can I make eating more enjoyable?
• Maintaining your weight
• Here are some high-calorie recipes to try.
  • Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake
  • Super Shake
  • Super Pudding

While there is no special diet required for people with Parkinson's disease, eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet is extremely beneficial. With the proper diet, our bodies work more efficiently, we have more energy, and medications will work properly.

This article addresses the basics of good nutrition. Please consult your doctor or dietitian before making any dietary changes. A registered dietitian can provide in-depth nutrition education, tailor these general guidelines to meet your needs, and help you create and follow a personal meal plan.

The Basics

• Eat a variety of foods from each food category. Ask your doctor if you should take a daily vitamin supplement.
• Maintain your weight through a proper balance of exercise and food. Ask your doctor what your "goal" weight should be and how many calories you should consume per day.
• Include high-fiber foods such as vegetables, cooked dried peas and beans (legumes), whole-grain foods, bran, cereals, pasta, rice, and fresh fruit in your diet.
• Choose foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
• Try to limit sugars.
• Moderate your use of salt.
• Drink eight 8 oz. glasses of water per day.
• Ask your doctor about drinking alcoholic beverages (alcohol may interfere with some of your medications).

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• rasagiline, Azilect - Azilect (rasagiline) is an FDA approved drug used to treat Parkinson's disease. Azilect (rasagiline) belongs to the MAO (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) drug class.
• Parkinson's Disease - Learn about Parkinson's Disease - symptoms, causes and treatment for this neurological brain disorder that affects the central nervous system on MedicineNet.com
• Caregiving - Get information about caregiving for older adults and the elderly. Learn about the role of a caregiver, the impact of stress on caregivers, respite care and support groups.

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