Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and can lead to tremors, muscle control issues, and even dementia. While there’s no cure, lifestyle adjustments, including proper diet, can significantly help manage symptoms and potentially slow disease progression. Nancy Oliveira, MS, RD, LDN, a dietitian at Mass General Brigham, explains how nutrition plays a key role in managing Parkinson’s disease.
The Role of Diet in Parkinson’s Disease
The disease process leading to Parkinson’s begins years before symptoms appear, making early intervention through lifestyle factors, including diet, critical. Research has highlighted the connection between gut health and Parkinson’s, suggesting that the food you eat may influence brain health and the onset of symptoms.
Studies, such as those conducted by Harvard, show that individuals with a diet rich in plant-based foods—including fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains—had a lower risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. A heart-healthy diet that includes lean proteins and limited saturated fats is beneficial for brain and vascular health.
What to Include in a Parkinson’s Diet
A well-balanced, heart-healthy, and anti-inflammatory diet can help manage Parkinson’s symptoms. Here are some dietary recommendations for individuals with Parkinson’s:
1. Plant-Based Foods
Parkinson’s is considered an inflammatory condition, and eating foods that reduce inflammation is key. These foods help nourish the gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in overall health. Recommended plant-based foods include:
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Fruits and Vegetables (e.g., carrots, tomatoes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, purple cabbage)
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Beans and Legumes
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Nuts
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Whole Grains
The fiber in these foods helps feed the beneficial microbes in the gut, which in turn produces anti-inflammatory chemicals that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
2. Probiotic-Rich Foods
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. Including fermented foods in the diet can promote a healthy microbiome. Some recommended probiotic-rich foods are:
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Kefir
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Kimchee
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Sauerkraut
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Sourdough bread
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Yogurt Oliveira notes that probiotic supplements should only be considered under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as high doses can sometimes overwhelm the system.
3. Lean and Plant-Based Proteins
Protein is vital for overall health. Parkinson’s patients may need extra protein because their metabolism can be higher, requiring more calories to maintain weight. Protein-rich foods include:
Lean meats (e.g., chicken, fish)
Plant-based proteins (e.g., tofu, beans, tempeh, nuts)
Oliveira advises a minimum of 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. For someone weighing 150 pounds, this equates to about 54 grams of protein per day.
Timing protein intake is especially important for those on levodopa, a common medication for Parkinson’s. Protein can interfere with the absorption of levodopa, so it is recommended to take the medication an hour before or after eating protein-rich foods.
Foods to Limit or Avoid
While it’s important to eat a variety of nutritious foods, there are certain foods that individuals with Parkinson’s should limit:
Saturated Fats: These fats, commonly found in red meats, full-fat dairy products, and processed foods, can increase inflammation, which negatively impacts both brain and vascular health.
Ultra-Processed, Low-Nutrient Foods: Foods high in artificial ingredients, unhealthy fats, and added sugars offer little nutritional value and can disrupt the microbiome. Avoiding these foods can help promote the growth of beneficial gut microbes.
Excessive Alcohol: Moderate alcohol consumption is generally recommended, with no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.
Ensuring Sufficient Caloric and Nutritional Intake
Parkinson’s disease can lead to difficulties with eating, such as trouble chewing and swallowing, feeling full quickly, or fatigue. These issues can make it harder to consume enough calories and nutrients. Oliveira suggests:
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Softer foods that require less chewing
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Nutritious smoothies for easier consumption
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Soups and stews that are both nutritious and easier to swallow
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Smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
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Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated
Conclusion
A balanced diet focused on plant-based foods, lean proteins, and probiotic-rich items, while limiting processed foods and excess alcohol, can support brain and gut health in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Working with a registered dietitian to tailor a meal plan to personal preferences and nutritional needs can greatly enhance care and quality of life. Regularly consuming nutrient-dense foods and staying hydrated can also help counteract the challenges posed by Parkinson’s symptoms, such as fatigue and difficulty eating.
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