Self-medicating with food: A balanced diet is overrated

Adjust diet to manage symptoms

Controlling Nausea

Drink clear or ice-cold drinks containing sugar.
Avoid orange and grapefruit juices.
Drink beverages slowly and between meals instead of during them.
Avoid fried, greasy or sweet foods.
Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
Eat foods without strong aromas.
Rest after eating with your head elevated.
Avoid brushing your teeth immediately after eating.
Eat crackers before getting out of bed or a high protein snack before going to bed.

Relieving Thirst/Dry Mouth

Drink 8 or more cups of liquid each day. Limit caffeine.
Take a drink after each bite of food to help you swallow.
Add sauces, gravy, broth or melted butter to make foods softer.
Eat sour candy or fruit ice to help increase saliva.
Use alcohol-free mouthwash.
Ask about prescription artificial saliva products.

WebMD Parkinson's Disease: Eating Right

http://www.webmd.com/parkinsons-disease/guide/eating-right

Over the past decade, I have made many accommodations, big and small, short term and long, in order to live well with Parkinson’s disease. There is a limit, however, as to how much I am willing to sacrifice without the promise of neuroprotection, if not a cure, in return.

Adopting a daily exercise regimen has been shock enough for my body without embarking on a “balanced diet” that experts acknowledge will not alter disease progression, but will help us feel more energetic. Convincing me that broccoli and brussel sprouts can provide the same “high” I get from chocolate malts and s’mores would require hypnosis not just a scientific study.

To my knowledge, no one has researched a diet rich in dark chocolate covered raisins and peanut M & M’s, combining fruit, protein, antioxidants, and the laxative properties of fiber. So, who is to say my diet is not as good or better for people with Parkinson’s than a more well-balanced one?

One thing I know for certain is that those who adhere to my diet do not experience unplanned weight loss. Eating is always pleasurable when you like what’s on your plate. You never have to disguise it with colorful garnishes, present it on colorful place settings, or play soothing background music to make the food look more appetizing. The only meals I have a desire to skip are the balanced ones that offer little I enjoy eating.

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