As the condition advances, full-time caregiver assistance is eventually required as mobility becomes minimal and symptoms turn severe.
The good news is that medication can control symptoms well, especially in the earlystages.
This suggests that a person’s genetic makeup may make them more or less vulnerable to developing PD.
moriyu / Getty Images
Genetic factors can also possibly affect disease progression.
These foods are high in omega-3 fatty acids andflavonoids(chemicals with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties).
Incorporatingcaffeine(from green tea or another source) into your daily routine is also believed to be neuroprotective.
One study found that regular caffeine consumption in people with PD significantly lowered their rate of disease progression.
Without adequate water intake, PD symptoms likeconstipationcan worsen.
Moreover, dehydration in Parkinson’s disease is linked to an increased risk of deterioration.
Stress Management
All symptoms of PD can worsen with stress.
Some people with PD wonder if Parkinson’s disease medications, namelylevodopa, make their disease progress faster.
What Is Levodopa?
Levodopa, or L-dopa, is the hallmark medication for Parkinson’s disease.
It increases dopamine levels in the brain and is the most effective drug for reducing PD symptoms.
Unfortunately, there is also no research yet suggesting levodopa slows down the disease.
Instead, choose alternative food options.
For example, for protein sources, you could eat beans and nuts.
Likewise, try leafy green vegetables and tofu instead of dairy products for calcium.
MAO-B inhibitors also increase tyramine in the body and can elevate blood pressure when combined with tyramine-rich foods.
Therefore, it’s prudent to avoid them unless your provider suggests otherwise.
Reaching out to others for support and avoiding social isolation are also essential to optimizing your PD care.
Parkinson’s Foundation.Stages of Parkinson’s.
Blauwendraat C, Nalls MA, Singleton AB.The genetic architecture of Parkinson’s disease.Lancet Neurol.
2022;12(2):477-493. doi:10.3233/JPD-212976
The Michael J.
Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.Parkinson’s disease and diet: a practical guide.
