HEALTHY LIFE STYLE

One thing that is essential for Parkinson’s patients is a healthy and balanced diet.  Dyskinesia and tremors burn large amounts of calories, making eating nutritious foods like whole grains and fruits and vegetables important for keeping energy up.  Also, Parkinson’s patients have a high risk for bone loss.  The potential for osteoporosis makes it important for patients to get plenty of calcium, magnesium, and vitamins K and D in their diets.  In an effort to cover all the necessary minerals and vitamins, most doctors suggest that Parkinson’s patients take a daily multivitamin. 

Finally, people with PD should be sure to drink lots of water to aid in the function of digestive and respiratory systems (2).  Any questions can be answered at the National Parkinson Foundation website by clicking on the “Ask the Dietician” forum.
Exercise is also the key to keeping Parkinson’s patients healthy and functional.  Exercising three to five times a week has shown to reduce stiffness, give more energy, improve posture, and be socially active (2).  Why not exercise together?  Several activities have shown to help improve the movement of people with PD such as tai chi, boxing, kayaking, dancing, agility courses, and pilates (5).

After working hard to stay fit and be healthy, many Parkinson’s patients can feel worn out.  A recent study at the Atlanta School of Massage and Emory University showed that neuromuscular therapy (NMT), a form of massage that involves direct compression of pressure points as well as lengthening strokes parallel to the spine.  This form of massage was proven to improve the motor functions, activities of daily living, bradykinesia, tremor and fine motor dexterity in Parkinson’s patients, as well as overall quality of life (3).  By treating your loved one to relaxing NMT, you can actually help their symptoms.