For people with Parkinson’s disease, there are some things to keep in mind when it comes to eating. Each patient is different, so your loved one may need to experiment a bit to see which works the best. Generally, the PD patient should take levodopa (the most common PD drug to control symptoms) about 30 minutes before they eat, OR an hour after the meal.
These times will increase the efficacy of the drug because the stomach is empty and the drug gets to the first part of the small intestine, whet it will be absorbed more quickly.
Protein Consumption
You should know that levodopa is an amino acid, and it will compete for absorption with any other protein the patient eats. So, eating a meal with a lot of protein is going to slow the absorption of the drug. Therefore, it is better for your loved one to consume vegetables and carbs at lunch and to leave meats and cheeses for night.
The good news is that dopamine-agonists (such as pramipexol and ropinirole) do not need this type of dietetic adjustment. Also know that patients who take MAO-B inhibitors (such as selegiline or rasagiline) should eat moderately any foods that have high levels of tyramine. These include any fermented meats and fish, aged cheeses and soybean products.
How to Adjust Diet to Keep Bowel Regularity
Constipation is common in PD patients. It can vary for each person, but you may need to try several methods for your loved one. Make sure he has a well-balanced diet, and try to put more fiber in his diet. A few teaspoons of flax seed taken with foods that have probiotics in them (such as yogurt), can help your loved one to stay regular. If he still experiences regular constipation, you should take him to his doctor for more help.
Dining Aids for Your Loved One
Patients who have Parkinson’s disease have challenges with eating as their symptoms become more pronounced. Fortunately we have a full line of PD products for eating that will make the process much easier. Good Grips Weighted Utensils make the eating process more efficient, due to their added weight. They also have an adjustable metal shaft that allows them to be twisted at an angle for easier eating. The Weighted Insulated Cup keeps hot liquids hot and cold liquid colds. Weight is in the bottom of the cup to reduce tremors that occur in PD patients.
