5 lifestyle changes that can help you manage Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease sets in with tiny tremor, and gradually makes even smiling and blinking a challenge. This rapid and often debilitating escalation can be avoided by managing the early symptoms with a comprehensive treatment plan.

Currently, more than 10 million people world over are affected by Parkinson’s and are struggling to improve their quality of life. Though there is no cure for this disorder yet, there are certain treatments of Parkison’s disease including physiotherapy and medication that can help patients overcome impairing symptoms and lead fuller lives.

The symptoms of Parkison’s remain prevalent throughout the patient’s life. However, all hope isn’t lost — patients still have the power to turn the tide by making the right lifestyle choices. 

But before discussing these simple routine changes, let’s look at why these alterations are key in managing Parkinson’s disease.

Why are lifestyle modifications important?

Most symptoms of Parkinson’s are a result of low dopamine — a neurotransmitter that controls motor functions, motivations, emotions etc. in the body. And the common misconception is that medication, surgery, or therapy is enough to increase dopamine production and improve mobility. Truth is, neither medication nor surgery can stop Parkinson’s disease from progressing — but patients can make some lifestyle changes along with other treatments to see more effective and long-lasting results. 

Patients can consult their doctors to chalk out a comprehensive plan that balances conventional treatment and lifestyle modifications, and eases symptoms over time. 

Lifestyle changes to make in Parkinson’s disease 

Daily exercise - Motor symptoms of Parkinson’s such as tremors, rigidity, delayed movements, and balance issues make patients more sedentary and further increase the progression of the disease. Exercise has shown to be useful in slowing down the disease and delaying the degeneration of motor functions. 

a)    Engaging in cardio exercises like running, dancing, and swimming for at least 2.5 hours per week can improve muscle coordination and improve mobility in the long term

b)    Doing normal physical activities like washing dishes, or cleaning help to maintain an active lifestyle

c)    Walking carefully and slowly can help prevent falls and improve balance and stability

2.            Good Diet - The medication of Parkinson’s can often lead to non-motor problems such as bone thinning, dehydration, weight loss, and constipation. Though there is no strict diet that patients must follow, healthy eating goes a long way in decreasing non-motor problems. Here are some general diet tips that patients can incorporate in their daily routine:

a)    Eat fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits every day to prevent constipation

b)    Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages and alcohol as they can interfere with medication 

c)    Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to avoid dehydration and muscle cramping

d)    Consume foods packed with vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin K, and calcium to increase bone strength

e)    Avoid taking medicines right after eating a high-protein meal as it may disrupt the absorption of certain drugs

3.            Stress Management - After diagnosis, transitioning back to normal life can be difficult for many patients. The sudden changes in personal and professional lives can increase stress levels, which makes Parkinson’s symptoms even worse. Here are some tips that can reduce the stress post diagnosis:

Try deep breathing for a few minutes before starting the day

a)    Practice mediation, yoga, or tai chi to calm the mind

b)    Listen to your favorite songs each day to boost mood 

4.            Good sleep - Sometimes Parkison’s can cause abnormal dreams and disrupt a patient’s sleep cycle. Adequate rest is essential to manage stress, restore muscle movement, and improve recovery. The following tips can help to get a good night’s rest:

Follow a sleeping schedule to wake up and sleep at the same time every day

a)    Avoid using phones or laptops before sleep

b)    Don’t consume caffeine or alcohol for at least 4 hours before going to bed

c)    Don’t nap for more than 40 minutes during the day

5.            Seek support - The challenge of transforming one’s lifestyle can be made easy with the right support. But, only other affected people can truly understand the emotional challenges that Parkinson’s brings. Here are some tips that can help patients find support when they need it:

Participate in online or in-person support groups to find solutions to specific challenges

a)    Speak to the doctor openly and honestly about any problems and reach out to the sources of support they suggest

b)    Meet with a counsellor or therapist regularly to effectively manage emotions and moods

The treatment of Parkinson’s disease is not always crystal clear to patients right after diagnosis. And resuming back to a normal life may be hard to imagine for many, but conscious lifestyle choices truly do make a huge difference. Patients just need to remember that they are not alone — there are doctors, family members, and support groups they can count on to fight Parkinson’s.