How diet can help symptoms of Parkinsons

About 150 people out of every 100,000 North Americans are afflicted with Parkinson's disease, a chronic and progressive nerve disorder that causes uncontrollable shaking or trembling (tremors), a fixed staring expression, muscle rigidity, stooped posture and an abnormal gait. What you eat can affect your symptoms. Here's some interesting facts.

The disease varies from one person to another; some people develop speech problems and difficulty swallowing, while others suffer progressive dementia. Parkinson's affects men and women equally and generally develops only after the age of 50.The symptoms of Parkinson's disease are due to progressive destruction of a part of the brain, the substantia nigra, where cells make dopa­mine, a chemical necessary for proper neuromuscular function. The underlying cause of the disease is usually unknown. In some cases, however, cocaine use and head injuries, such as those suffered by boxers, have resulted in a type of Parkinsonism. In a few cases, the use of a street drug, an altered version of Demerol, induced Parkinsonism in drug addicts. Some studies have shown a higher incidence of Parkinson's among agricultural workers suggesting that the use of pesticides may be linked to the disease.There is no cure for Parkinson's, but various medications, especially levodopa, can reduce symptoms and slow the progression. Preliminary research indicates that coenzyme Q10, a dietary supplement, may be beneficial. There are also surgical treatments, but these are usually reserved for severe advanced disease.

Although there are no nutritional treatments for Parkinson's disease, diet helps to increase the effectiveness of treatment with levodopa, and to manage such problems as constipation and difficulty in chewing and swallowing. To be its most effective, levodopa should be absorbed from the small intestine as soon as possible after it is taken. Some physicians advise taking the drug 20 to 30 minutes before meals, but if this provokes nausea, it can be taken with a carbohydrate snack, such as crackers or bread. Protein delays the absorption of levodopa, so the medicine should not be taken with animal products. There have been some reports that a reduced intake of protein may be beneficial. Some doctors advise consuming the day's protein allowance in the evening, when it's less likely to create problems.

A proper diet helps to control other symptoms. Constipation can be minimized by ­consuming ample fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain cereals and breads, and other high-fibre foods, as well as drinking six to eight glasses of fluids daily. It is also important to avoid becoming overweight, as this makes mobility even more difficult.Patients with advanced Parkinson's often have trouble chewing and swallowing food, because the tongue and facial muscles are affected. Excessive drooling and shaky hands are also common problems. Medications can help reduce drooling, and meals should emphasize foods that are easy to chew and swallow. These include cooked cereals or well-moistened dry cereals, poached or scrambled eggs,  puréed or mashed vegetables and fruits, custard, yogurt and juices. If eating is tiring, try smaller but more frequent meals.

Dealing with a debilitating disease like Parkinsons is a challenge but there are ways to make it easier to eat during these times.  Following these tips will help.