Parkinson’s is a highly common neurodegenerative disease that affects a large number of people. It is characterized by tremors, rigid muscles, and slowed movements. This condition affects the day-to-day life of the individual and makes it very difficult to function. This article lists some foods and medications that can help fight Parkinson’s disease.

One must remember that there is no specific foods that can help tackle Parkinson’s disease head-on. Maintaining a healthy body which in turn nurtures a healthy mind is important for Parkinson’s patients. This means that you need to eat cleaner and healthier foods. Here are some foods that can help:

Fatty fish
Fatty fish that is high in essential omega-3 fatty acids should be an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. Studies suggest that the oil extracted from fatty fish can actually help slow the progression of Parkinson’s to a certain extent. This is because of the presence of omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation in the nerves and even improve neurotransmission. Studies also indicate that omega-3 fatty acids can help slow down the neurodegeneration that takes place due to Parkinson’s disease. Seafood that has high levels of omega-3 fatty acids are mackerel, salmon, and oysters.

Foods high in antioxidants
Free radicals can cause damage to DNA and fatty tissue. This damage is known as oxidative stress and occurs when there are a large number of free radicals in the body. Multiple studies have found a link between oxidative stress and Parkinson’s disease. Foods that are high in antioxidants can help tackle free radicals. This helps reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. Foods that are high in antioxidants include green tea, blueberries, grapes, strawberries, and citrus fruits.

Research further suggests that those who suffer from Parkinson’s disease usually have some sort of nutrition deficiencies. To tackle this, it is important to eat foods that have tons of iron, zinc, and other essential vitamins. Maintaining good food habits and avoiding foods that can harm the body is essential when it comes to fighting Parkinson’s disease.

Apart from food, individuals who suffer from Parkinson’s can manage the symptoms with the help of medication. Some of them include:

Levodopa
The most common medication that is prescribed to almost all Parkinson’s patients is Levodopa. It is used as a form of external dopamine that transmits messages between the brain and the nerves. Some common side effects include feeling sick, exhaustion, and dizziness.

ONGENTYS
ONGENTYS Parkinson’s is a prescription medication that is used to treat the disease. In 2020, the medication was approved by the FDA as an oral add-on to Levodopa and Carbidopa. It can cause mild or serious side effects including constipation, dizziness, and dryness in the mouth. One should always check with a doctor before using any medication.

RYTARY (carbidopa and levodopa)
RYTARY is an extended-release prescription medication that combines levodopa and carbidopa for treating Parkinson’s disease. The medication must be taken orally and must be swallowed whole (without crushing or chewing). RYTARY’s dosage depends on the type and severity of the symptoms you have. It is also based on how you have reacted to earlier treatments.