Nutrition for Those With Parkinson's Disease

Lifestyle Recommendations for Parkinson's Disease 

Carol and Ed attended a presentation in May on general nutrition and lifestyle recommendations for people with Parkinson’s. This presentation was written and given by Heather Zwickey, PhD. The main strategy presented was a three-pronged approach. First, focus on foods that help with neuroprotection. Second, eating the right foods to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. And finally, reducing chemicals in the diet.

Foods that are neuroprotective are foods that are good for the brain. These are nuts and things with good natural oils (ie salmon and avocados). Olive oil, coconut oil and macadamia nut oil are also good for the brain.

With the goal of decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress, aiming for foods rich in antioxidants is key. Foods like green tea, fruits and veggies with lots of color, and reducing the amount of foods with a high glycemic index, such as foods high in high fructose corn syrup.

Finally, to reduce chemicals in the diet, you want to look at the things you are eating and see what kinds of pesticides are on your fresh foods. Buying organic is best to reduce chemicals on the fresh foods. Also, avoiding things like artificial sweeteners, hormones and other additives can be beneficial.