Taking Charge of Your Parkinson’s Disease
For people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), exercise is medicine. It is a vital component in maintaining balance, mobility, and activities of daily living. Not only is starting an exercise program important, but what you do and how you do it are essential for achieving good outcomes in PD. Exercise that targets symptoms and optimizes physical function is key. As always, consult with your physician before beginning any exercise program.
Research shows exercise benefits everyone, and for those with Parkinson’s Disease, it may help protect the brain and restore function. It can slow brain cell degeneration and support repair and new neural connections, helping slow PD progression.
Essential Elements for Optimal Results
- Frequent: Aim for 5 days/week.
- Complex: Combine motor & cognitive tasks requiring focus.
- Intense: Higher intensity supports brain recovery.
- Specific: Target your weaknesses to promote relearning.
- Meaningful: Choose goal based, social, and enjoyable activities.
Good nutrition plays an important role in managing Parkinson’s Disease (PD). While there’s no specific PD diet, many doctors recommend the Mediterranean diet for overall health. It focuses on plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and grains, with smaller amounts of lean protein such as chicken or fish. Certain foods may also help with non-motor symptoms like constipation and fatigue.
Key Elements of A Healthy Diet
- Consuming adequate amounts of fiber rich foods.
- Choose foods high in calcium and vitamin D.
- Incorporating colorful fruits and vegetables.
- Staying hydrated.
- Adding healthy fats.
- Keeping food flavorful and interesting byusing herbs and spices.
Keep in Mind
Medication taken with food will take longer to enter your system because your body takes longer to digest your meal. Swallowing difficulties and occasional choking on food can occur as Parkinson’s Disease progresses. Talk with a member of your medical team for guidance specific to your situation, medication regimen, and any treatment or lifestyle modifications at the first sign of swallowing issues.
Depression and anxiety are common in Parkinson’s Disease (PD), affecting over half of those diagnosed. Managing mental health is essential for maintaining exercise, social connection, and overall care. Talk to your doctor if you notice mood changes.
Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon staff can provide listening and support, as well as assistance connecting with therapeutic activities and appropriate counseling resources in your community.
