Everyone should eat a healthy and well balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids. However, there are several aspects of Parkinson's that may affect your eating and drinking (intake of fluids).
Loss of smell and taste
Using more spices and paying special attention to visual appeal and the texture of the food may make foods more palatable.
Swallowing difficulty
In severe cases, this can lead to impaired nutrition and chest infections because food gets into the lungs.
Try taking several small meals rather than three large ones and choose softer foods such as chicken, ground meat, thick soups or stews. For more solid foods, swallow two or more times before taking another bite.
Sipping liquids can also assist in swallowing.
If the swallowing problems persist, see your physician. Throat x-rays can be taken to find the degree and cause. Speech pathologists and counselling can also help.
Stomach fullness and bloating
The stomach empties more slowly in people with Parkinson's. This may result in a full or bloated feeling. There are medications that can help speed up stomach emptying. Talk to your doctor.
Constipation
Parkinson's also slows bowel action but again, this can be controlled in almost every case with daily exercise, a high fiber diet or laxatives. You should talk to your doctor if this is a concern.
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