Parkinson's Disease Diet

Clinical studies have shown that one can enhance the action of L-dopa and improve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease by consuming nearly all of the day’s protein intake at dinner, while keeping the protein content of breakfast and lunch extremely low. This dietary approach is now well-accepted, but must be carefully monitored by a qualified healthcare professional in order to avoid deficiencies of protein and certain vitamins and minerals.

Consumption of large amounts of fava beans (Vicia faba), also known as broad beans, might increase the action of L-dopa and possibly lead to L-dopa overdose. Parkinson’s disease patients should, therefore, talk with a doctor before adding broad beans to their diet.

A preliminary study found that higher coffee and caffeine intake is associated with a significantly lower incidence of Parkinson’s disease in older persons. These findings do not mean that coffee or caffeineated beverages can be used as a treatment for Parkinson’s disease, but simply that caffeine may in some way help to prevent the development of the disease in its early stages. Until more is known, increasing caffeine consumption is not recommended, even in people with a family history of Parkinson’s disease.

Doctors recommend that people with Parkinson’s disease supplement with fiber and maintain adequate fluid intake to reduceconstipation associated with this disease. See the discussion about psyllium seed below in “Herbs that may be helpful.”