

Parkinson's Disease, which occurs in one out of every hundred people after the age of 50 and increases in frequency with age, occurs with the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. Drugs are used to increase dopaminergic activity, which are insufficient in its treatment. With some of these drugs, dopamine receptors in the brain are stimulated and the dopamine effect is tried to be achieved, while with another gup drug, the missing dopamine is tried to be supplemented. Since Parkinson's disease treatment is usually done with oral medications, meal times and meal content affect medications and the disease status. Some foods, such as broad beans, can also have a direct effect on the symptoms of the disease, regardless of medications.
Protein is the building block of the body and it is necessary to get enough protein for a healthy diet. However, the protein disrupts the absorption of levodopa, which is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, and reduces the effect of the drug. In such cases, taking a protein-poor diet with levodopa meals or taking levodopa on an empty stomach may be the solution. In the form of a diet called the ”Parkinson's diet", protein-containing foods such as meat, milk, eggs, fish are not taken during the day. Instead, it is recommended to eat a diet rich in carbohydrates, vegetables and fruits. The absorption of levodopa is also affected by iron drugs in a similar way to protein. For this reason, it is also recommended to take iron medications at different hours with levodopa medications. It is necessary to take care not to gain weight while eating a carbohydrate-heavy diet. Weight gain in Parkinson's disease increases mobility difficulties, tires the joints, and blood pressure can lead to other systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus. If you have a weight gain; it is recommended to reduce portions, avoid cakes, desserts, fries and carbonated drinks. Getting enough fluids and consuming fiber-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables may be beneficial in relieving constipation, which is common in Parkinson's Disease. If the bread preference is whole grain or whole wheat bread, fiber can also be obtained with bread and the intestines can work more regularly.
It is recommended to take more water, soda and salt in patients with low blood pressure. In patients who experience low blood pressure and use extra salt, blood pressure monitoring should be performed against the risk of high blood pressure. With regular use of medications and proper nutrition in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease, the symptoms of the disease can be largely controlled.