Some people hardly notice their symptoms in the early stages of Parkinson's and lead a full life for many years. But as time goes on and the brain makes less and less of the chemical dopamine you usually face more problems.
Making changes to the way you live can help you carry on as normal for as long as possible. There's also a lot you can do to stay healthy.
Exercise: Regular exercise can improve your balance and coordination. It can also stop you from feeling depressed and help with constipation.
Stay active: It seems to help people with Parkinson's to keep doing the things they enjoy.
Eat the right foods: You need to take extra care with what you eat and avoid some of the particular problems you can get with Parkinson’s disease.
Being overweight or underweight can have effects on your health.
Avoid constipation by increasing the amount you drink and eating plenty of fibre.
Ask your doctor or dietician about the timing of eating protein (found in meat, fish, eggs, cheese, nuts and pulses) if you are taking levodopa medication. Protein can interfere with the effectiveness of levodopa for some people.
Make it easier to eat and swallow by taking your time. Consider eating smaller more frequent meals or easier semi-solid foods. Ask someone in your health care team for advice if you have difficulties in swallowing.
Listen to the article
