Spring / Summer 2023 | Living with Parkinson ’ s 15
EH : When there ’ s so much to manage with Parkinson ’ s , exercising and eating well can feel like yet another thing to do . What would lifestyle medicine say ?
RD : First , start with your “ why .” Why do you want to make these changes ? To lift your mood , play with your grandkids , travel ? Defining and regularly revisiting your “ why ” can keep you moving toward your goals , even if motivation wanes .
Then , base your goals on behavior instead of outcome . If you want to use diet to ease constipation , try one serving of vegetables with lunch or one full glass of water per meal . This gives you specific , attainable goals to keep you on track .
Finally , test and learn . See what works and doesn ’ t . And don ’ t get frustrated ; be kind to yourself . We all have good days and bad days . Treat each day as a new opportunity to take a positive step toward a healthy way of life .
EH : Okay , I ’ m convinced ! Where can I learn more ?
RD : Start with your Parkinson ’ s physician . When time runs short in regular visits , your doctor may not bring up exercise or diet . But if it ’ s important to you , ask . Ask for advice or a referral to other experts , like a physical therapist or dietitian , who can offer personalized guidance .
The American College of Lifestyle Medicine , where I certified , has more information about this topic and a searchable database of providers .
Food for Your Brain
A healthy diet can be a powerful tool to boost health and well-being , whether you live with PD or not . For people with Parkinson ’ s , it can ease symptoms and enhance medication benefit , too .
Learn how and get tips , recipes , community member hints and more in our new , free guide , Brain Food : Eating Well if You Have Parkinson ’ s ( or Worry You Might Get It ) and accompanying podcast .
Whether you live with Parkinson ’ s , care about someone who does , worry about the possibility of PD or simply want to care for your brain as best you can – our guide and podcast have something for you . Download them now at michaeljfox . org / dietguide and michaeljfox . org / dietpodcast .
And I ’ m building even more lifestyle-related resources , including MJFF ’ s latest guide on diet ( see box ) and a soon-to-come resource on exercise and Parkinson ’ s .