Parkinson’s is a severe progressive disorder that mainly affects a person’s motor control. The most common symptom includes gentle tremors that develop in the right hand. But as the condition progresses, Parkinson’s will start to affect muscle control, automatic motor skills, posture, and even balance. It is only possible to manage the symptoms in the long run to improve quality of life. This can be done with changes in food regime and introducing the following medications during ongoing treatment.

Foods rich in antioxidants
Parkinson’s symptoms can be aggravated due to an imbalance in free radicals that result in fatty tissue damage. The damage also results in oxidative stress that can lead to the rapid progression of the disease. Foods that are rich in antioxidants can help combat this stress and minimize the damage internally. Green vegetables like broccoli, spinach, artichokes, and kale are loaded with the nutrient. A healthy serving of blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, elderberries, and goji berries can also provide the necessary antioxidants. One can also include a variety of citrus-rich fruits, assorted beans, assorted nuts, and some herbs like parsley to boost the antioxidant intake.

Foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids
Omega 3s pack the necessary healthy fats that help slow down the progression of chronic ailments like Parkinson’s. Omega 3 fatty acids slow down the degeneration of neural tissue, enhance transmission between brain cells, and counter the inflammation that affects vital nerves. Fatty fish, including mackerel, anchovies, salmon, herring, sardines, and halibut, pack a ton of healthy fats. These foods help manage dementia and confusion that may develop alongside regular Parkinson’s symptoms.

Foods rich in fiber
Parkinson’s patients may also experience motion problems and, as a result, suffer from constipation due to the inability of the digestive system to process foods. Foods that are rich in fiber can help promote better digestive functions. Whole grains, brown rice, fruits, vegetables, assorted nuts, and legumes can provide soluble fibers to promote digestion. Drinking more fluids reduces the risk of dehydration and promotes bowel movements.

Foods to avoid
Processed products and carbonated beverages bought off the supermarket shelves, certain dairy products that may affect oxidation levels, and foods rich in saturated fats must be excluded from daily foods.

Medications for Parkinson’s management
These medicines also help manage the symptoms and supplement changes in the food regime.

• RYTARY®
  RYTARY® is a unique extended-release pill that works in two phases to deliver the dosage. A third of the pill is designed to release the beads that start working immediately. The rest of the time-release beads are delivered after a set duration to reduce the frequency of “off” times during the day.
• Ongentys
  Ongentys is a type of inhibitor prescription medication that can help manage symptoms like muscle spasms, tremors, stiffness, and poor control during those “off” moments. Ogentys can be used with other medications to treat Parkinson’s.

Note that several clinical trials are under process for medications like Fycompa to understand their efficacy for Parkinson’s treatment.