As Kate’s dad continues to deal with the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, she decides to talk to his neurologist about treatment. She knows that medication and physical therapy can be used to improve the condition, but she wants to hear about what she can do at home to make Dad more comfortable. The neurologist suggests updating Dad’s diet to get all the right nutrients to combat Parkinson’s disease progression. Here’s the doctor’s advice for creating a diet for Parkinson’s:
Incorporate Lots of Antioxidants
The neurologist encourages Kate to introduce lots of antioxidants into Dad’s diet. Consuming antioxidant-rich foods can help counteract damage to brain cells and potentially slow the progression of Parkinson’s Disease. Kate starts thinking of ways to incorporate the following into his diet:
- Colorful Fruits and Vegetables — The more color, the better! Brightly-colored foods like berries and leafy greens are particularly high in antioxidants.
- Nuts and Seeds — These foods are excellent sources of vitamin E, an antioxidant known for its neuroprotective properties. Snacking on a handful of nuts or adding seeds to your meals can be a simple yet effective way to boost antioxidant intake.
- Whole Grains — Whole grains should be a key part of any Parkinson’s diet. Things like brown rice and whole-grain bread are rich in antioxidants and provide sustained energy. This will be especially useful for combatting Dad’s fatigue.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids = Brain Health
Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain health. They have anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to improve cognitive function, which can be beneficial for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. Kate is excited to try out recipes with salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts to incorporate more omega-3s into Dad’s diet.
Prioritize Fiber for Digestive Health
Dad often deals with digestive issues like constipation as a result of his Parkinson’s disease. Besides a large serving of whole grains, Kate plans to incorporate lots of fresh vegetables and legumes into his meal plan. Dad really likes chickpeas, so she starts searching online for recipes that use them in creative ways.
Add Foods to Manage Dopamine
Dopamine plays a vital role in Parkinson’s treatment, and getting those levels up can make a significant difference in quality of life. Medication is the best way to increase dopamine levels, but the doctor tells Kate about a few foods that support the natural production of dopamine:
- Bananas — Bananas are full of amino acids that help produce dopamine. They make a great snack or breakfast side.
- Eggs — Eggs are another example of dopamine foods for Parkinson’s disease. Like bananas, they’re high in amino acids that promote dopamine production in the brain.
- Dairy Products — Things like milk, cheese, and yogurt can also enhance dopamine levels. The neurologist recommends choosing low-fat or fat-free options.
- Lean Meats — Meats like chicken, turkey, and beef provide high levels of protein, and including these protein-rich foods in your diet can further support the natural production of dopamine.
Don’t Forget to Hydrate!
Staying hydrated is essential for everyone, but it is particularly important for people with Parkinson’s disease. Proper hydration can help manage symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and constipation. Kate knows that Dad really has to drink more water, but the neurologist says beverages like herbal teas and freshly squeezed juices are also excellent options.
Let Us Help You Create a Meal Plan
Kate loves cooking, but creating a full meal plan for Parkinson’s treatment is a major challenge for her. When she’s feeling overwhelmed, she reaches out to BrightStar Care. Our Naperville, IL team works with families and caregivers to develop healthy, customized meal plans. We can help you incorporate foods that reduce tremors or provide advice about portion sizes and which foods to avoid. Contact us today to start creating a care plan for your loved one.