Parkinson’s Disease – Foods to Eat and Avoid

Parkinson’s Disease – Foods to Eat and Avoid

Parkinson’s disease is a movement-related disorder caused by degeneration of the brain cells that control the body’s movements. The nerve cells stop producing dopamine – a neurotransmitter that works with other chemicals to communicate between nerve cells and muscles that control movement. This condition can be managed with timely diagnosis and various treatment methods, including oral prescriptions, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) procedures, lifestyle changes, and exercise.

Role of foods in managing Parkinson’s disease
There is no official recommendation or solid evidence yet to show that a specific food or a combination can help in managing the advancement of Parkinson’s Disease. It is a degenerative condition resulting in tremors, slow movement, imbalance, rigidity, sleep disorders, pain, mental health disorders, and sensory disturbances. Oral treatments for Parkinson’s Disease are known to cause multiple side effects:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Constipation
  • Dyskinesia – uncontrollable movements of arms, legs, torso, and face
  • Confusion
  • Daytime sleep
  • Constipation
  • Low blood pressure

Since Parkinson’s Disease mostly affects seniors, their food intake has to consider the physical and mental changes they go through, any comorbidities they may have, and also manage the side effects of the oral prescriptions. It is recommended to consult a nutritionist to devise the right menu plan that provides the required nutrition, helps manage side effects, and prevents worsening symptoms. Food has to be soft, easy to digest, and easy to eat, making meal times comfortable and stress-free.

Beneficial foods for Parkinson’s Disease
Patients with Parkinson’s require calcium to compensate for the loss of bone density, vitamins and minerals that can prevent the progression of symptoms, and fiber to ease constipation. A caregiver should create a menu from varied food groups, like carbs, dairy, proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Here are some of the important foods that can benefit people with Parkinson’s Disease:

Green leafy vegetables
Green leafy vegetables contain beneficial compounds like tryptophan, which may boost serotonin and dopamine. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the risk of inflammation in the brain’s nerves, cells, and tissues. Greens are also rich in folate, vitamin E, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Include one serving of any of the following greens three to four times a week:

  • Spinach
  • Collard greens
  • Lettuce
  • Endive
  • Rocket
  • Beet greens

Vegetables
The choice of vegetables that is beneficial for Parkinson’s is wide, allowing caregivers to prepare healthy and tasty recipes that is easy to chew, tempting to eat, and also nutritious. Choose rainbow-colored veggies and keep rotating the menu through the week so that they get the best of phytonutrients, antioxidants, and micronutrients. Along with greens or meat, always serve three servings of vegetables daily. Choose from veggies like:

  • Capsicum
  • Carrot
  • Winter squash
  • Broccoli
  • Potato
  • Tomato
  • Peas
  • French beans
  • Zucchini
  • Eggplant
  • Beetroot

Fruits
Fruits contain vitamin C, magnesium, and antioxidants that can help build health, enhance mood and prevent depression. Fruits are also rich in fiber and help constipation. Include fruits as part of a meal or a snack. Choose from a wide range of seasonal and fresh fruits rather than canned ones containing added sugar and preservatives.

  • Blueberries
  • Goji berries
  • Oranges
  • Elderberries
  • Avocados
  • Pears
  • Dragon fruit
  • Bananas
  • Watermelon
  • Cantaloupes
  • Kiwi
  • Strawberries
  • Cranberries

Whole grains
Whole grains are abundant in antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and folate, each of which can help improve symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. While fiber can ease constipation, vitamins and folate can help fight fatigue. Antioxidants help in building immunity and control the progression of the Disease. Whole grain bread, crackers, desserts, cereals, porridge, stews, and salads are some recipes you can prepare with whole grains. Doctors ideally recommend three servings of whole grains a day. Choose from:

  • Oatmeal
  • Brown rice
  • Shorgum
  • Corn
  • Buckwheat
  • Spelt
  • Quinoa
  • Whole wheat
  • Millets

Omega-3 fats
Omega-3 fatty acids gained prominence after research proved they could prevent cell degeneration. Including food rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help with cell and tissue damage and delay the worsening of symptoms. It can nourish the myelin sheath, which covers the neurons, keeping them healthy. It can also prevent further decline in dopamine levels. Include the following omega-3 fats in your diet:

  • Mackerel
  • Sardines
  • Salmon
  • Cod
  • Pastured eggs
  • Hemp
  • Walnuts
  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Flax seeds

Foods to avoid
Any food that is difficult to digest, promotes inflammation, or has zero nutritional value should be avoided. Food items with excess sugar, salt, and fat should be avoided as they can promote high BMI, trigger inflammation, and hasten cell damage. People with Parkinson’s must avoid the following five foods:

Processed foods
Processed foods have saturated fats, salt, hidden sugars, and preservatives, each of which can trigger inflammation. They may also increase blood pressure, worsen bad cholesterol levels, and increase seniors’ risk of cardiovascular diseases. The fat can also deposit in the liver, increasing the risk of fatty liver disease. People with Parkinson’s should avoid the following processed foods:

  • Canned foods
  • Processed snacks
  • Cheese
  • Yogurt
  • Processed meat
  • Ready-to-eat meals

Protein and iron-rich foods
While protein and iron are essential for everyone, high levels of these nutrients interfere with the absorption of Parkinson’s treatment. Though there is no need to shun protein and iron completely, you should watch the portions and frequency. Talk to a certified nutritionist who can recommend the right protein and iron.

Acidic foods
The current treatment for Parkinson’s comes with unavoidable side effects like nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Acidic foods can further worsen these symptoms. Avoid acidic condiments like sauces, fresh red meat, wheat, carbonated beverages, beer, and hot chocolate.

Sugar rich foods
Sugar is a known inflammation trigger and adds zero value to one’s health. Avoid sugar-rich desserts. If one has a sugar craving, substitute desserts with fresh fruits.

Note: Consult a doctor or a certified nutritionist before making drastic changes to the meal plan. It is important to plan the meals and give adequate time between treatments and meals to avoid side effects like vomiting and nausea after eating.

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Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It's an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It's rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease. Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers. You can eat them raw with a dip, mix them into your salad, or enjoy them as an appetizer. Some people also like roasting bell peppers and using them as a topping for lettuce salads or sandwiches. Olive oil It contains healthy fat and has anti-inflammatory properties. Since it is monosaturated fat, it stays stable even at higher temperatures as you cook. Thus, switching to extra virgin olive oil can give you more antioxidants while you still enjoy your favorite dish. Green vegetables Leafy veggies like spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, and cabbage are hydrating, low in calories, and have high antioxidant and vitamin content. If you wish to be cautious about your mineral levels, you must opt for cabbage and arugula, which are nutrient-rich and lower in sodium, potassium, phosphorous, and calcium. In addition, kale and spinach have a high potassium content, which is ok for people seeking to improve their kidney health, but best for those already dealing with chronic kidney disease. Blueberries They are called superfoods because they are rich in antioxidants and are a low-calorie Vitamin-C and fiber source. You can stock them in abundance from your local grocery store or farmer’s market. You can also shop for frozen berries in the off-season and enjoy healthy smoothies. People with kidney diseases can also eat other berries like raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries. Apples Apples are low in potassium and rich in fiber when you eat them with peel. They also have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and are ideal for your kidneys. Foods to avoid Soda Soda has zero nutritional benefits and instead has high sugar content. It only adds to the extra calories. Some studies link high soda consumption to conditions like kidney disease, osteoporosis, dental problems, and metabolic syndrome. If you opt for their lower calorie alternative like coke zero, even that will do you no good, as it has no nutritional value and contains artificial sweeteners and additives. Hence, you must omit soda and opt for healthy beverages like water. If you do not enjoy plain water, add a slice or two of fresh fruit for added flavor. Avocados Avocadoes are known for their many nutritious qualities. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Even though consuming avocado is often considered healthy, people with kidney disease must avoid it as avocados have a high potassium content. An average-sized avocado has about 690 mg of potassium. If you love the taste and do not want to eliminate it, you can reduce the portion size to only 1/4th of the avocado. In addition, it will lower potassium intake.  Salty foods Sodium or salt is one of the most prevalent inclusions in foods you consume daily. However, their density is higher in processed foods. Salt results in water retention and may cause blood pressure, lung, and heart disease. Healthy kidneys work towards maintaining the correct fluid balance in the body. So, if your kidneys do not function as desired, the fluid balance may be disturbed. Hence, you must curtail sodium-rich foods like processed foods, packaged items, and soy sauce. When cooking meals at home, opt for low-sodium alternatives. You can replace salt with spices and herbs and keep the salt shaker off the table. Dairy Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, ice cream, and milk are rich in protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients. They also contain potassium and phosphorous. People with stage three kidney disease might want to curtail their potassium, phosphorous, and protein intake, which is high in dairy. So, you can instead reach out for dairy alternatives like rice, soy, or almond milk as they have lower potassium, phosphorous, and protein content than cow’s milk. Bananas Though naturally low in sodium, bananas' potassium content is significantly high. So, to ensure your kidney disease does not aggravate, monitor your potassium intake, and it might be challenging if the banana is your staple. Conclusion Whatever you eat or drink will affect your health regardless of any health issue. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced meal plan are prerequisites to staying fit and controlling blood sugar levels. A kidney-healthy meal plan is less about eliminating certain foods but following portion control and finding a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

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10 Best Times to Drink Water

We all know how important it is to drink water daily to maintain our overall health and well-being. You can drink it hot, ice cold, or in other ways to satiate your thirst. Some also enjoy it infused with fruit. But did you know that drinking water can significantly impact your body? So join us as we break down the top ten best times to drink water during the day to meet your hydration goals. When you feel hungry You may think you are hungry, but you might be thirsty. Often, people do not realize that they are thirsty when they feel hungry. The brain tends to recognize both of these triggers as similar. So, before you scour through your pantry, drink some water. Wait a few minutes, and you will see how it satiates your urge to eat. When you wake up Instead of reaching out for your morning coffee, drink a glass or two of water first. Naturally, you did not drink any water in your sleep. So when you wake up, you are already dehydrated. Hence, having water when you wake up can help. You can also have coffee after hydrating yourself. The good news is that coffee also counts as fluid, and while a caffeinated beverage is usually dehydrating, moderate quantities of it do not leave you dehydrated. That said, coffee cannot replace water. Before meals Drinking a glass of water before any meal can be an excellent strategy for anyone who tends to overeat. Drinking water makes you feel somewhat fuller, reduces the amount of food you have, and prevents overeating. It is better if it is iced water. It is because chilly temperatures slow down digestion and lower your appetite. During meals Drinking water during meals aids in digestion. It helps soften the food, making it easier to digest and also helps avoid constipation. But do not drink excessive water during meals, as it dilutes stomach acid, which is crucial for breaking down food. Ideally, you should slowly sip water during meals to avoid overconsumption. Before a workout Hydration is imperative while you work out. Often, people only consume water after completing several sets of body workouts and cardio. But taking some sips of water before you start a physical activity is recommended. It keeps you from getting dizzy and dehydrated. Hence, always drink some water before you start your daily workout. After a workout Once you complete your workout, drink plenty of water to rehydrate your body. It also replenishes your muscles and body with minerals. Of course, the amount of water you consume depends on the temperature outside and your body weight, but drinking a glass of water is safe to replenish your energy levels and regulate your blood pressure. Before bedtime You lower the risk of stroke and heart attack if you hydrate yourself before bed and sleep, as dehydration increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Without realizing it, you might experience mild dehydration along with endothelial impairment. These changes occur when dehydration reaches a level of less than two percent, approximately the point where individuals typically begin to feel thirsty. Dehydration has a negative impact on your mood, which can be bad for your overall sleep cycle. Thus, it always helps to have some water before going to bed. Drink your last glass of water at least an hour before bed. It will save you from bathroom trips in the middle of the night. When you feel stressed Dehydration and stress are two independent factors that raise your cortisol levels. These can trigger unpleasant stress symptoms like fatigue, high blood pressure, and headaches. Often, people forget to stay hydrated or eat well when they are stressed. It only increases stress. Thus, when stressed, you are more susceptible to dehydration. Similarly, if you are dehydrated, you have a higher chance of feeling stressed. Hence, whenever you experience a stressful situation, take a few deep breaths, sit down, and have a big glass of water. When you have a headache One of the best remedies for a headache is hydration. When you consume caffeine in large quantities, your body feels dehydrated. It can result in headaches. Further, when you do not have adequate fluids in the body, it can lead to electrolyte imbalance, a common trigger for headaches. Thus, drinking some water after a caffeinated beverage helps balance things out and alleviates a headache. It will rehydrate your body and replenish the lost electrolytes. Therefore, the next time you experience a headache, drink some water.Moreover, if you have migraines or headaches, you must continue to take small sips of water throughout the day. Carry a water bottle and drink a few sips every few hours. Whenever you feel a headache coming on, immediately drink a glass of water. It can prevent the pain from aggravating. Mid-afternoon, when energy levels go down Experiencing a decline in energy levels during the mid-afternoon, often referred to as the mid-afternoon dip, is a common occurrence typically observed around 3 p.m. Usually, it compels people to get a cup of coffee to push through the rest of the day. However, coffee can harm your sleep cycle. Taking caffeine even six hours before bedtime can disrupt your sleep cycle, just like having a sugary snack that leads to a sudden energy crash after a quick spike. So, instead of resorting to these solutions, tackle the underlying issue, which is dehydration. Beyond fatigue, dehydration also leads to feelings of depression, confusion, hostility, and anger. Thus, drinking water can be crucial.

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