Why is a good diet important with Parkinson’s?

There is no recommended diet for people with Parkinson’s, but a balanced diet consists of fruit and vegetables, and can promote health and wellbeing for everyone. We are going to look at some dietary changes that may be beneficial for people with Parkinson’s, including some foods to eat, foods to avoid, and what the benefit of a healthy diet might be.

Changing your diet can be difficult. Try making one change at a time – small changes at a time can lead to big results. Choosing a diet that best suits you can be difficult. Choose a diet that consists of plenty of grain products, vegetables, and fruits, which provide vitamins, minerals, fibre, and complex carbohydrates and try to lower your intake of fat.

Foods to Eat

Antioxidants – Current research on this consists of protein, flavonoids, and gut bacteria. Eating a diet high in antioxidants reduces “oxidative stress” that can aggravate Parkinson’s.

Some foods high in Antioxidants:
  • Dark Chocolate
  • Blueberries
  • Strawberries
  • Raspberries
  • Kale
  • Beans


Omega 3 – If you are worried about any of the secondary symptoms of Parkinson’s, eating foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, can improve cognitive function.

Some foods high in omega 3:
  • Mackerel
  • Salmon
  • Cod liver oil
  • Flax seeds
  • Walnuts

Foods to Avoid

Dairy Products – Dairy Products have been linked to a risk of developing Parkinson’s. If you’re going to stop consuming dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, you might want to consider a calcium supplement to make up for the loss of calcium in your diet.

Foods in high saturated fats – in general, foods that have been fried or heavily processed alter your metabolism, increase blood pressure, and impact your cholesterol. None of those things are good for your body, especially if you are trying to treat Parkinson’s.

Tips:

Stay Hydrated – staying hydrated is important for everyone especially people with Parkinsons. Aim to drink between 6-8 glasses of water a day. If you dislike water, finding a cordial or flavouring that is low in sugar can help you to get the recommended water intake daily.

Vitamin D – has been demonstrated to protect against Parkinson’s, so getting fresh air and sunshine might help your symptoms too. Different kinds of exercise and physical therapy can help your symptoms and slow the progression of Parkinson’s.