Parkinson's Disease: Eating Right (cont.)
Relieving Thirst/Dry Mouth
Some Parkinson's disease medications may make you thirsty. Here are some tips for relieving thirst and dry mouth:
- Drink 8 or more cups of liquid each day. But, some people with Parkinson's disease who also have heart problems may need to limit their fluids, so be sure to follow your doctor's guidelines.
- Limit caffeine (contained in coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate) as it may interfere with some of your medications and may actually make you more thirsty.
- Dunk or moisten breads, toast, cookies, or crackers in milk, tea, or coffee to soften them.
- Take a drink after each bite of food to moisten your mouth and to help you swallow.
- Add sauces to foods to make them softer and moister. Try gravy, broth, sauce, or melted butter.
- Eat sour candy or fruit ice to help increase saliva and moisten your mouth.
- Don't use a commercial mouthwash. Commercial mouthwashes often contain alcohol that can dry your mouth. Ask your doctor or dentist about alternative mouthwash products.
- Ask your doctor about artificial saliva products. They are available by prescription.
I am Too Tired to Eat in the Evening, What Should I Do?
If you are often too tired to eat later in the day, here are some tips:
- Save your energy. Choose foods that are easy to prepare. Don't waste all your energy in preparing the meal because then you'll feel too tired to eat.
- Ask your family to help with meal preparations.
- Check to see if you are eligible to participate in your local Meals on Wheels Program.
- Keep healthy snack foods on hand such as fresh fruit and vegetables, pretzels, crackers, high-fiber cold cereals.
- Freeze extra portions of what you cook so you have a quick meal when you're too tired.
- Rest before eating so you can enjoy your meal.
- Try eating your main meal early in the day so you have enough energy to last you for the day.
Next: I don't feel like eating, what should I do? »
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