What Does a Parkinson’s-Healthy Diet Look Like?

Eating healthy is always a good choice. It is even more vital for those living with Parkinson’s.

Over 200 years ago, James Parkinson discovered Parkinson’s disease. Because he was born in April, this month has been recognized as Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Parkinson’s is a neurological condition that causes a loss and damage to nerve cells in the brain that produce the chemical dopamine. Dopamine is what our bodies use to send messages to muscles throughout the body. Thus, when those cells are damaged or destroyed, our brain starts to function irregularly, and movement can be affected.

Causes of Parkinson’s

While it is tough to know the exact cause of Parkinson’s, scientists have found it is likely a combination of genetics, environment, aging, and other factors. Researchers estimate that roughly 30% of Parkinson’s risk is determined by genetics. There are a handful of genetic mutations found to increase one’s risk; however, not everyone who carries those genetic mutations will get Parkinson’s. Environmental factors that have been associated with an increased risk include head injuries and exposure to pesticides. The greatest risk factor, however, is age. Researchers believe that our cells may be more susceptible to damage as they age. With all that in mind, how can we best promote brain health to prevent and mitigate symptoms? A great place to start is with a healthy diet.

Nutrition Tips for Parkinson’s

Many foods have been studied for their potential to promote brain health. The foods that have been shown to promote brain health best are nuts and herbs. Some of those include:

• Walnuts
• Pistachios
• Macadamia nuts
• Cashews
• Almonds
• Brazil nuts
• Turmeric
• Ceylon cinnamon

Other foods that can promote brain health include those that help mitigate inflammation. These include coconut oil, rosemary, salmon, tuna, kale, collard greens, and spinach. Foods that contain antioxidants may also help with brain health. Fruits that are purple and red (like blueberries and raspberries), and green tea have been shown to contain antioxidants.

Foods that may be especially beneficial for those with Parkinson’s include high-fiber fruits and vegetables such as kiwi, apples, prunes, dates, figs, radishes, berries, buts, and beans. You can also increase your fluid intake by eating foods with high water content, like tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, celery, broccoli, and grapefruits.

Local Resources

Parkinson Association of the Carolinas – PAC offers two support groups for people affected by Parkinson’s disease. One is fully remote, and the other has in-person and remote options.

Alamance County Community YMCA – offers a Parkinson’s support group designed for individuals with Parkinson’s and their caregivers.

Roch Steady Boxing – their mission is to equip their affiliates and empower coaches to improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s Disease through a non-contact, boxing-based fitness curriculum.

Griswold Can Help

If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s, we are here to help. At Griswold Home Care for Burlington, we offer many different nonmedical care services. Our team has experience working with clients living with Parkinson’s. We also provide our Caregivers with Parkinson’s-specific training through the Triad Medical Academy. We can provide non-medical assistance such as mobility support, fall prevention, care that adapts to your changing needs, patience, and understanding.

Whether you require a few hours of respite care in Burlington each week or need assistance around the clock with live-in care, we’re here for you. Contact us today at (336) 860-7936 to learn how we can develop a personalized care plan that suits your needs. In many cases, we can have a Caregiver at your home within 24 hours.