According to Web Md Parkinson’s disease affects the way a person moves. At times it happens when there is a problem with certain nerve cells in a persons brain. Nerve cells make an important chemical called dopamine. This dopamine sends signals to the part of your brain that controls movement. Its job is to let your muscles move smoothly and let you have control over them. When a senior or anyone else has Parkinson’s Disease the nerve cells break down. Thus, you no longer have enough dopamine and you have trouble moving the way you want to. Over a time period Parkinson’s affects more of your body. Eventually it can lead to problems such as swallowing, constipation, trouble speaking, weight loss,tremors, a decrease in mental skills, etc.  The age of onset in seniors is  generally between 50 and 60.

Treatments for Parkinson’s

At this current time there is no real cure for Parkinson’s. There are treatments for Parkinson’s that help with controlling the symptoms. The best drug for treating Parkinson’s is called Levodopa (also known as L-dopa). Seniors and others that take Levodopa often times notice  food-related effects. This poses a real no win situation. The Parkinson’s Disease Foundation has a helpful answer.  Take the Levodopa a half-hour to an hour prior to a meal. If your suffering with nausea then take it with a slice of bread or crackers. Also, sipping @ 5 ounces of water with your medication can speed absorption.

4 Foods to Eat to Ease Side Effects of Parkinson’s for Seniors

To date, there are no supplements or foods that help protect against Parkinson’s side effects.  According to the Doctor’s Book of Home Remedies there are 4 foods to eat to ease side effects of Parkinson’s for Seniors . Take Calcium for fracture prevention. Research shows that up to 68 percent of Parkinson’s sufferers have falls due to muscle stiffness, balance problems, stooped posture, etc. Falling does raise the risk of breaking bones. Include three servings of cheese, yogurt,or milk in your diet or add a calcium with vitamin D supplement to help maintain bone density. Drink plenty of fluids and eat fiber to counter constipation. Remember some fiber packed foods are vegetables, fruits and  whole grain foods. Choose cold drinks that contain a little bit of sugar to help calm your stomach. Omega three fatty acid is also beneficial. Good sources of omega three fatty acids are salmon, flax seeds and walnuts.

Loving Hearts Home Care staff are here to help assist your loved one. We take every step to help promote the best health choices to keep your family member’s needs our priority.

Loving Hearts Home Care – Erie PA 16506 – 814-836-1147

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